June 2012

Polaroid announced the Z2300 instant digital camera that combines digital camera technology with instant prints. The 10-megapixel Z2300 camera has a 3-inch LCD, SD card storage, and is able to create 2 x 3 inch instant prints. Available in August 2012, the camera will cost US$159.99. The special ZINK photo paper will run US$15 for a 30-pack. [See Polaroid Z2300]

Kodak files for auction of digital imaging patents
Very sad: Eastman Kodak, which filed for bankruptcy in January of 2012, now filed a motion on seeking approval of bidding procedures for bankruptcy auction of its Digital Capture and Kodak imaging Systems and Services patent portfolios, which together comprise more than 1,100 patents. These patents include much of what made today's digital cameras and digital imaging possible. -- Posted Monday, June 11, 2012 by chb

Canon addresses changed user expectation issues with new Rebel 4Ti dSLR
Canon introduced the Rebel T4i, an 18mp dSLR camera that doesn't look very different from its predecessors (the T2i and T3i), but aims to meet changing user expectations with improved HD video (continuous, silent auto-focus finally), a capacitive 3-inch touch screen, stereo microphones, increased sensitivity, faster continuous shooting (up to 5fps), and much improved autofocus to reduce the annoying "hunting" that plagued earlier models. Retail price for the body alone is US$849, US$949 with a 18-55mm lens, and US$1,199 with a 18-135mm lens. [Read Canon press release] -- Posted Friday, June 8, 2012 by chb