Kodak debuts new EasyShare, PlayFull cameras
— -- Despite its recent announcement that the company may be filing for bankruptcy, Kodak unveiled two new camera products for 2012, adding a model to both its EasyShare and PlayFull lineups. While certainly not the "reboot" the company might need to get it back on track financially, both products bring some minor additions to an already popular lineup.
For the digital camera line, the EasyShare Wireless is a Wi-Fi-equipped ultracompact capable of transmitting captured stills and videos to a nearby computer or wireless printer, without plugging in a cable or swapping out memory cards. iPhone tethering is also possible, which will allow remote data transfer from almost anywhere. Essential specs include a 16-megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, ISO sensitivity up to 1600, and a full suite of in-camera picture effects and scene modes. A three-inch capacitive touchscreen display will dominate the rear panel. And although this might make some users nervous, Kodak claims the interface has been overhauled for intuitive touch control.
Kodak is also making an addition to its PlayFull lineup of compact video cameras, with a new model called the PlayFull Dual Camera. This iteration will be aimed squarely at one of the series' most common criticisms: sub-par still photography. The PlayFull lineup is known for convenient video capture, but has always lagged behind when it comes to shooting regular photographs. Kodak hopes that its 1080/60p video will be well paired with the addition of 12-megapixel still photography.
The Kodak PlayFull Dual Camera is based around a 1/2.33-type backside illuminated CMOS sensor, F2.6 fixed focal length lens, new Xenon flash bulb, and external microphone jack. Tactile controls have been arranged on both the rear and left panels of the body, so the unit may be oriented vertically or horizontally for comfortable video or still photography.
The Kodak EasyShare Wireless will carry the model number M750, and will retail for $169 starting in March or April. The PlayFull Dual Camera will be available in April for $199.
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To read more about the latest CES camera announcements and get our hands-on impressions live from Vegas, check out DigitalCameraInfo.com. Reviewed.com is a division of USA TODAY.
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