Kodak?s latest contenders each incorporate video capabilities in a body smaller than a deck of cards.
The EasyShare V550 and V530 are 5MP cameras with a 3x optical SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH optical zoom lens. Both are capable of capturing up to 80 minutes of MPEG4 movies at 30fps, which can be turned into still images, while a video-stabilisation facility helps prevent camera shake.
Kodak is targeting both models at the female user; sales director David Hughes comments: ?Almost half (46%) of women in the UK are now purchasing ? or being jointly involved in the decision to purchase ? Kodak digital cameras and accessories. Kodak recognises this increasingly trend and is designing products that are both stylish and relevant to the lifestyles of women today.?
Retailing £299.99, the V550 has a silver finish. It includes a 2.5-inch LCD screen with 170 degree viewing capabilities and 19 scene modes.
Available in four colours, Red Shimmer, Absolute Pink, Midnight Black and Silver Essence, the V530 has a 2-inch LCD screen and will cost about £249.99.
Supplied with both models is Kodak EasyShare software Version 5.0, incorporating picture management, editing and printing tools, the program will also be available as a free download from the Kodak website.
The EasyShare V550 is available in June, while the V530 will be available exclusively from Dixons in July. Kodak EasyShare software Version 5.0 is available as a free download.