[Pixalo]

Press release

Canon is pleased to bring Optical Image Stabilization (IS) technology to the PowerShot A Series with the launch of the PowerShot A710 IS. Along with a 6x optical image stabilized zoom, the compact PowerShot A710 IS is packed with features that make it a worthy successor to the popular PowerShot A700 it replaces. As well as helping to reduce blurring and counteract camera shake, improvements include a 7.1 Megapixel sensor and new photo effects that add to the already extensive creative possibilities



The PowerShot A710 IS keeps many of the features that made its predecessor so successful, including an extensive range of shooting modes, full manual control, VGA quality movie recording, ISO 800 shooting and a 2.5” LCD screen.

The PowerShot A710 IS features:

* 7.1 Mega Pixel
* 6x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer
* DIGIC II, iSAPS, 9-Point AiAF, FlexiZone AF/AE1
* Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom1
* 2.5” LCD with wide viewing angle and real-image optical viewfinder
* 20 shooting modes

“By enhancing the popular PowerShot A700 with advanced features such as Optical Image Stabilization, Canon confirms its position at the forefront of developments that really matter to the market,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “The PowerShot A710 IS answers the call from consumers who want high image quality combined with professional capabilities at an accessible price.”

Image quality
The 6x optical zoom lens achieves a focal length range of 35-210mm (35mm equivalent) while allowing the camera to maintain a small form factor. A real-image optical viewfinder enables framing without the LCD through the full focal range, significantly extending battery life.

The PowerShot A710 IS's optical IS has been specifically engineered for this compact format using the expertise Canon has gained since introducing the technology to its professional range of EF lenses. IS counteracts camera shake to reduce blur, enabling photographers to shoot at shutter speeds up to 3 stops slower. It also allows for steadier shots at full zoom and when using the camera's 1cm Macro mode. The digital IS control chip processes up to 4000 signals per second, driving precise shifts of the lens element to compensate for any unwanted hand movements. The PowerShot A710 IS's ISO 800 and High ISO Auto mode complement the optical IS by enabling high standards of flash-free shooting in low light or indoor environments.

Photographic flexibility
A new Safety Zoom2 takes advantage of the camera's large resolution to offer extra zoom magnification without affecting image quality. Users can capture images at up to 12x zoom with enough resolution for lab-quality postcard (10 x 15cm) prints. Users can also select a new Digital Tele-Converter3 to add extra telephoto reach on every shot – similar to adding a tele-converter lens to the camera.

The 20 shooting modes include Special Scene modes for help with tricky shooting environments, while Manual modes give the more experienced user complete control over exposure settings. Artistic photo effects can be applied in-camera during and after shooting with My Colors. The PowerShot A710 IS also offers a choice of five movie mode settings including VGA quality movies at 30fps and QVGA at 60fps.

LCD enhancements
The 2.5" LCD retains a selectable Grid Line display for help with framing and levelling. Further assistance is provided by a useful 3:2 ratio guide, which displays an overlay of the print area for standard photo prints. A new overexposure warning feature indicates areas of overexposure in captured images.

Full range of accessories
A complete range of optional lenses includes Wide (0.7x) and Tele (1.75x) converter lenses as well as a Close-Up lens for macro photography. The High Power Flash extends the camera's range on night shots and expands the possibilities for creative flash work.

Constructed with anti-fog double glass and flash light diffusion plate, the optional waterproof case allows full control at depths down to 40 metres.


Availability
The PowerShot A710 will be available September 2006, price to be confirmed