GE officially announces cameras, printer
updated 05:00 pm EST, Thu March 8, 2007
First GE cameras, printer
General Electric today confirmed its earlier intentions to enter the digital camera realm, Electronista writes, by unveiling a full eight inaugural models. The X1 targets the bridge between home users and professionals with a 12X optical-zoom fixed lens, optical image stabilization, and ISO 1600 assisting serious photographers; at the same time, the 8-megapixel camera also helps novices with face detection, a 2.5-inch live LCD, and a consciously simplified interface. It should be available for $399 in May along with the rest of the line.
The G1 will be the company's most compact model, 3.6 inches long and 2.5 inches tall. Rated at 7 megapixels, the camera uses virtual image stabilization (rather than optical), and has 4.8X optical zoom while keeping the face detection and 2.5-inch screen of the X1. No price has been revealed.
Largest of all the new model lines is the E-series. Its four variants are all meant to have features commonly associated with premium cameras despite a lower price, GE claims. The 8-megapixel E850 has a 28mm wide-angle lens and 5X zoom for better portraits and long-distance shots than normally found in point-and-shoot units; the E1030 and E1040 share a 10-megapixel sensor but are aimed at different price levels, with the E1030 depending on 3X optical zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD while the E1040 improves with 4X zoom and a 3-inch screen. The flagship E1240 touts a 12-megapixel sensor and 4X zoom. Prices are unavailable.
GE concluded its cameras announcements with the entry-level A-series. Both the 7-megapixel A730 and 8-megapixel A830 share 3X zoom and a 2.5-inch LCD. No prices have been announced for these specific models; however, the company revealed that its prices will begin at $149, suggesting a similar price for the beginner A730.
Accompanying the cameras is GE's premiere printer, the P1, which produces photo-quality images in 105 seconds at 4800x1200 DPI. A 2.5-inch LCD manages printing from either a computer's USB 2.0 port or a PictBridge-enabled camera. While no cost has been set, the P1 should be available in May along with the camera lineups.
