Canon has debuted its first wide-angle zoom addition to its IXUS range of digital cameras. The 7MP Digital IXUS 850 IS introduces wide-angle zoom capability to the Digital IXUS range for the first time with an optical Image Stabilizer and 28mm (35mm equivalent) 3.8x optical zoom lens.
Geared to satisfy more serious compact photographers, the IXUS 850 IS stays true to its design heritage with a sculpted curvature design and all-metal finish. Enhanced performance and image quality are promised through Canon’s latest DIGIC III image processor, which also enables ISO 1600 shooting and new Face Detection AF/AE ? a Canon technology that detects up to nine faces in a frame and automatically optimises the focus and exposures.

Key specifications include:
7.1 Megapixels and 3.8x zoom
Wide angle 28mm lens with Optical Image Stabilizer
DIGIC III with Noise Reduction and Face Detection
AF/AE Safety Zoom for extra telephoto reach
ISO 1600
2.5″ LCD
17 shooting modes including VGA movies (30 fps) with sound
Range of optional accessories including Underwater Case

The new DIGIC III processor drives Canon?s new Face Detection technology. Face Detection AF/AE aids people shots by automatically detecting faces in a scene and optimising focus and exposure accordingly. The system is designed to revert to 9-point AiAF if it determines that the main subject is non-human.
The camera’s 17 shooting modes include a new Aquarium Special Scene mode and a manual mode for selection of exposure settings such as White Balance and ISO ? now made easier with the inclusion of a dedicated ISO button. For creative image manipulation in-camera, My Colors photo effects can be applied during and after shooting. A new My Category function simplifies image management by automatically tagging images with categories such as People, Scenery and Events, based on face detection and the shooting mode selected.
The camera?s movie functions include 30fps VGA recording with sound. Canon?s Intelligent Orientation Sensor automatically rotates vertically shot movies for playback on camera, PC or TV via the integrated AV Out connection.
The Digital IXUS 850 IS’s 2.5″ LCD features a wide viewing angle for comfortable image framing and viewing. Boasting a screen resolution of 207,000 pixels, users can select an Image Inspection Tool to display a magnified section next to each captured shot straight after shooting. The magnified spot can be moved between AF points or to any area of the image, allowing users to check sharpness or facial expressions before leaving the scene.
The user interface (UI) has also been enhanced to speed up navigation between related camera settings. For accurate framing without the LCD, the camera retains a real-image optical viewfinder.
“This latest incarnation of the Digital IXUS shows just how far the range has developed since the original analogue IXUS was launched in 1996,” explains Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “By incorporating a string of firsts that will appeal to photo hobbyists ? wide angle capability, DIGIC III and Face Detection AF/AE ? IXUS continues to innovate.”
The IXUS 850 IS will be available from October priced £369. Find out full details at www.canon.co.uk