t rate at full resolution. The camera also captures 60fps movies at 1920×1080 resolution. At VGA resolution, it can shoot at 600fps. Other cameras include the three Z-series models–two 10MP cameras with 4x optical zoom, the Z200 ($330, with image stabilization) and Z100 ($280, without image stabilization), plus the 8MP, $200 EX-Z80. The EX-S10 is expected to cost $250 and is claimed to be the world’s smallest, thinnest 10MP digital camera.
For details, read the Casio press release:
Casio to Introduce New EXILIM Digital Cameras Offering Enhanced Burst Shooting Performance and Premium Design Quality
One high speed model, with ultra-high speed burst shooting
Four models with stylish new designs
LAS VEGAS, NV – Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., announced plans today to introduce an entirely new lineup of EXILIM® digital cameras just in time for Spring. The new lineup will include five new convenient, user-intuitive models which make the most of Casio’s newest technologies to enable entirely new forms of digital photography.
One of the new models is a high speed digital camera featuring a revolutionary improvement in burst shooting speed that is expected to create entirely new markets. The other four models, while naturally offering significant enhancements in function and performance, focus on style with a new body shape that keeps height to a minimum and exudes a sense of premium design quality.
High speed model unveils powerful new technologies
EXILIM Pro EX-F1, with the world’s fastest* burst shooting performance
This model incorporates a high speed CMOS sensor and a high speed LSI processor. With this model, Casio has achieved an ultra-high speed 60 frames per second (fps) burst rate for still images, together with 1,200 fps high speed movie recording that captures movement faster than the eye can see for ultra-slow motion replay. Moreover, the new model can record movies at full High-Definition.
* As at January 6, 2008, based on a Casio survey for the consumer market digital cameras.
Four stylish models feature premium design quality and improved functionality
EXILIM Card EX-S10 — the world’s smallest and thinnest* 10.1 megapixel model
With this model, Casio sought to produce a camera with a high resolution CCD and a very bright Super Clear LCD featuring a high contrast ratio and a wide field of view. Both the picture taking and image viewing capabilities of this camera have been improved, and its design presence has been enhanced by keeping it as slim as possible.
* As at January 6, 2008, for 10-megapixel class digital cameras. Based on Casio survey.
EXILIM Zoom EX-Z80 — a small 8.1 megapixel model with a smart design
In addition to providing functionality that makes it easy for users to take photos and shoot movies, with this camera Casio pursued a design that enables people to use it almost like a fashion accessory. This high performance model comes in a very compact, smartly shaped body.
EXILIM Zoom EX-Z200 and EX-Z100 — two 10.1 megapixel models featuring a wide-angle 28 mm lens with 4X optical zoom
With their newly developed lenses, these cameras give users the freedom to enjoy a range of different photo styles, from wide angle to telephoto. They include highly visible Super Clear LCDs as well as Casio’s AUTO BEST SHOT scene recognition function that automatically chooses an appropriate shooting mode.
All four new stylish models also feature the Auto Shutter function, which enables users to take the picture just at the moment of a lovely smile or at the instant that hand shake ceases. Using Auto Shutter, the camera automatically detects the right moment and takes the photo.
Furthermore, to make it easy to enjoy recording movies, all models have a Movie Button that lets users record video at the touch of a single button. Even more, the highly portable EX-S10 and EX-Z80 models to be sold in the North American market utilize the AAC audio codec for movies, enabling replay on Apple’s iPod and other such devices as well as recording of movies in iTunes Compatible Format.
“We are continuously developing new features that take advantage of digital technology, and we introduced the Snap Video mode on our digital cameras. By using Apple’s superior video technology we believe people will find more ways to enjoy Snap Video,” said Susumu Takashima, a managing director and head of digital camera development at Casio Computer Co., Ltd.
“Every new Mac ships with iLife ’08, featuring a major new version of iPhoto and a completely reinvented iMovie,” said Ron Okamoto, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations. “Casio’s fantastic new line of EXILIM digital cameras works seamlessly with iLife’08, which makes creating incredible video and still photos easier than ever.”
By constantly pursuing new applications for the latest technologies and functionality, Casio has been able to offer its customers beauty, enjoyment and convenience in digital camera-based photography that was not previously possible. With the release of this new lineup of EXILIM digital cameras, which are extremely user friendly and can be used in many new ways, Casio hopes that many more customers will have even more enjoyable experiences with cameras.
EXILIM Pro EX-F1 — a high speed digital camera boasting the world’s fastest* burst shooting performance
The EXILIM Pro EX-F1 incorporates a new high speed CMOS sensor and high speed LSI processor. After building in 6.0 million effective pixels and a 12X optical zoom, the developers focused on achieving a burst shooting speed capability that was hitherto unheard of. Using the camera’s ultra-high speed burst shooting for still images or its high speed movie recording mode, users can capture a split second’s movement with greater detail than before, allowing them to catch each decisive moment, and even motion that the human eye cannot ordinarily perceive.
* As at January 6, 2008, based on a Casio survey for the consumer market digital cameras.
Full resolution photography using 60 fps ultra-high speed burst mode captures the crucial moment
Using the still image burst mode, users can shoot at an ultra fast 60 frames per second. In burst mode, the frame rate can also be varied from between 1 and 60 frames per second while shooting. Up to 60 shots can be taken at once, so 60 shots per second for one second, or 5 shots per second for 12 seconds, are possible.
Don’t miss that crucial moment, Prerecord Still Images, using ultra-high speed burst function
Users can record images not just at the instant they press the shutter button, but before! Continuously recording at up to 60 images per second, a maximum of 60 images can be saved in the camera’s own buffer memory even before the shutter button is depressed. Even if users press the shutter a little late, they will still be able to catch that vital moment.
Slow Motion View function lets users view and capture that critical moment in slow motion during still photography
Users can take photographs while, in the monitor, the momentary action that is before their eyes is displayed in slow motion. It is just as if they have slowed down the passing of time. Users can unhurriedly observe the motion of the subject as they press the shutter, ensuring that they never miss that crucial moment.
Rapid Flash function allows continuous shooting even in low light
It is possible while using flash to take up to 20 continuous shots at a speed of up to 7 frames per second, so even in low light, no more missed shots. Also, the internal LED light allows high speed burst shooting at between 10 and 60 frames per second.
High speed movie recording at up to 1,200 fps
The EXILIM Pro EX-F1 can record high speed movie footage of motion too fast for the human eye, for ultra slow motion playback. Users can select a recording speed of 300 fps, 600 fps or 1,200 fps. There is also a Movie Button that lets users quickly start movie recording without first switching from still image mode.
Full High-Definition movies
The camera features Full High-Definition movie recording capability. Users can record beautiful movies at a screen size of 1920×1080 pixels, at a rate of 60 fields per second. The camera can be connected to an HD compatible television with a separately available HDMI cable to enjoy viewing movies.
EXILIM Card EX-S10 — the world’s smallest and thinnest* stylish 10.1 megapixel digital camera
Casio’s EXILIM series was born with the appearance in 2002 of a “wearable card camera” — a digital camera with a very slim form. The new EXILIM Card EX-S10 maintains all of the powerful functionality of the cameras that were later developed in that line (high pixel count, zoom functionality, LCD monitor, photo functions, etc.) but it also embodies a return to a stylish thin form and a strong design presence.
* As at January 6, 2008, for 10-megapixel class digital cameras. Based on Casio survey.
Thin form with a refined design
The camera’s stylish body, measuring 94.2 mm wide, 54.6 mm high and 15.0 mm thin (13.8 mm at the thinnest part) is the product of Casio’s relentless pursuit of thinness. It is finished according to two design requirements — a high quality feel created by the stainless steel body, and a unique beauty derived from its coloring. The camera comes in four colors — red, blue, silver, and black.
10.1 million effective pixels, and a 3x optical zoom lens
This new camera’s thinner, smaller body was made possible without sacrificing high resolution image quality using a newly developed 1/2.3 inch CCD. Its high resolution images can be used to create beautiful prints even when enlarged or when the image is cropped.
2.7-inch wide and bright LCD offers high contrast
The camera incorporates Casio’s newly developed Super Clear LCD. This produces extremely sharp and vivid images, thanks to its high contrast ratio and its 230,160 dot high resolution. The display can be viewed easily from above, below, left or right thanks to its wide viewing angle, and it is extremely bright, making it easy to see even in daylight.
Auto Shutter function automatically records the moment of a smile or the instant when hand shake ceases
Using motion blur detection technology, the camera can automatically take a photo at the instant when hand shake or subject movement ceases. Users can also automatically capture the moment of a smile, the instant when subject movement due to panning ceases, or the moment when their own face fills the frame as they point the camera towards themselves.
iTunes-compatible H.264 video
The camera uses the H.264 video standard, which utilizes the AAC audio codec widely enjoyed in Apple’s iPod, etc. It is also possible to record movies in an appealing wide format. The camera also features a Movie Button which makes movie recording easy.
EXILIM Zoom EX-Z80 — a small 8.1 megapixel digital camera with a smart design
The EXILIM Zoom EX-Z80 is a digital camera that features a very compact, tightly formed design which offers the functionality needed to easily take photos and shoot movies, yet also offers a design feel conducive to carrying it around almost like a fashion accessory. It is available in six body colors — pale pink, vivid pink, green, blue, black, and silver. With this model, Casio has sought to create both functionality and design that are “easier” and “more fun.”
A smallish, smart form
This camera’s smart form, with height kept to a minimum, makes it compact enough to be cradled in the palm of the hand. The body features a finely brushed finish, and the contrast with the mirror finish on the ring surrounding the lens accentuates the camera’s scintillating presence.
8.1 million effective pixels and a 3x optical zoom lens
Thanks to the use of the EXILIM Engine 2.0 high-performance image processing module, which makes full use of Casio’s proprietary technologies, users can enjoy taking beautiful pictures with very low noise with this high performance 8.1 megapixel model.
Auto Shutter function automatically records the moment of a smile or the instant when hand shake ceases
Using motion blur detection technology, the camera can automatically take a photo at the instant when hand shake or subject movement ceases. Users can also automatically capture the moment of a smile, the instant when subject movement due to panning ceases, or the moment when their own face fills the frame as they point the camera towards themselves.
iTunes-compatible H.264 video
The camera uses the H.264 video standard, which utilizes the AAC audio codec widely enjoyed in Apple’s iPod, etc. It is also possible to record movies in an appealing wide format. The camera also features a Movie Button which makes movie recording easy.
Fun and easy to use focusing frames
In addition to the usual rectangular focusing frame found on the LCD monitor, users can also choose other playful design, such as a heart shape, for the focusing frame. When the subject is crisply in focus a clear heart shape is displayed, but when the image is not in focus the heart shape breaks up. Not only fun, this is a useful tool that makes it easier than ever to get the focus right.
Face detection function* finds faces of family members and focuses on them
If the faces of the people who users want to be in sharpest focus are prerecorded, the camera can use face detection technology to simultaneously detect up to ten faces. When it recognizes any of the prerecorded faces, it prioritizes them when determining correct focus and exposure. This feature can be useful when ordinary face detection technology would have trouble focusing as desired, such as when a number of people are lined up for a portrait and the picture-taker’s family members are at the rear of the group.
*The face detection feature includes a face detection technology provided by OKI’s face image processing engine, FSE (Face Sensing Engine).
EXILIM Zoom EX-Z200 and EX-Z100 — two 10.1 megapixel digital cameras with a wide 28 mm lens and 4x optical zoom
The high resolution, 10.1 megapixel EXILIM Zoom EX-Z200 and EXILIM Zoom EX-Z100 models feature an EXILIM series first — a 4x optical zoom lens that can shoot as wide as 28 mm (equivalent). Also, in addition to the usual recognition technologies, the intelligence of these cameras has been enhanced. They incorporate automatic scene differentiation and allow the shutter to be released automatically, thanks to Casio’s commitment to keep improving the convenience offered by digital cameras.
Wide-angle 28 mm lens with 4x optical zoom
These cameras allow zoom photography between 28 mm and 112 mm (35 mm film camera equivalent). This increases photographic enjoyment, from wide angle photography suitable for capturing large subjects or shooting up close in small spaces, right through to telephoto work.
10.1 million effective pixels for high resolution photographs
The new thinner, smaller bodies of these two models were made possible without sacrificing high resolution image quality using a newly developed 1/2.3 inch CCD. Their high resolution images can be used to create beautiful prints even when enlarged or when the image is cropped.
CCD shift anti shake function in the EX-Z200
The EX-Z200 employs an anti shake function that compensates for blur by moving the imaging element. Of course, both models incorporate Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blur by raising the camera’s sensitivity and therefore increasing shutter speeds.
2.7-inch wide and bright LCD offers high contrast
These cameras incorporate Casio’s newly developed Super Clear LCD. This produces extremely sharp and vivid images, thanks to its high contrast ratio and its 230,160 dot high resolution. The display can be viewed easily from above, below, left or right thanks to its wide viewing angle, and it is extremely bright, making it easy to see even in daylight.
Auto Shutter function automatically records the moment of a smile or the instant when hand shake ceases
Using motion blur detection technology, the camera can automatically take a photo at the instant when hand shake or subject movement ceases. Users can also automatically capture the moment of a smile, the instant when subject movement due to panning ceases, or the moment when their own face fills the frame as they point the camera towards themselves.
AUTO BEST SHOT analyzes scenes to determine an appropriate shooting mode
These cameras can automatically analyze the scene to be captured and choose an appropriate shooting mode. The six scenes that can be distinguished are: people, scenery, night scenes, night scenes with people, close-ups, and moving subjects. These cameras were also designed to be very user-friendly, and it is easy to quickly change to another shooting mode associated with the scene type that the camera recognizes.
H.264 video, which can be enjoyed in wide format
These cameras utilize the H.264 video standard, which lets users record beautiful movies with the latest high compression technology. Users can enjoy wide format movies in a 16:9 aspect ratio. These cameras also feature a Movie Button for easy movie recording.
