Canon has today updated its bestselling PowerShot range with two entry-level new models ? the PowerShot A460 and PowerShot A550. Replacing the PowerShot A430, the entry-level PowerShot A460 adds improved specifications while retaining the point-and-shoot functionality of its predecessor. The 7.1 Megapixel PowerShot A550 replaces the PowerShot A530 and incorporates several new design features for enhanced ease of use.

Canon says the three new PowerShot models are positioned to meet an increasing demand for no-fuss cameras that every member of the family can pick up and use ? from kids to grandparents. ?For novice photographers and first time digital camera buyers, simplicity of use is a crucial factor,? said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. ?These new additions to the PowerShot range illustrate that affordable, snapshot photography need not mean a compromise on quality.?

Both cameras have been designed with ease of use in mind. Key controls and buttons are positioned for improved fingertip access. A selectable Grid Line Display on the 2-inch LCDs help with shot composition while AA battery compatibility is on hand for a widely available power source.

Shooting modes cover common family and social situations. The PowerShot A550 simplifies shooting by bringing the most commonly used scene modes ? such as Night Snapshot and Kids & Pets ? out of the menu system and onto the camera?s Shooting Mode dial. My Colors allows users to apply photo effects direct from the camera while shooting, with options including Sepia and Black & White.

Both cameras feature a Movie mode for VGA quality clips with audio of up to 60 minutes in length or 1GB file size (whichever is reached first). Movies and photos can be viewed on a TV via the AV out connection.

Each camera is PictBridge compliant for instant direct printing to compatible printers. Users can also print ID photos and still images from movies when connected to a SELPHY CP series printer. A Print/Share button on each camera allows one-touch printing and uploads to Windows or Macintosh systems.

The PowerShot A460 and A550 will be available from early February 2007 priced at £119 and £169 respectively. Full details are available at www.canon.co.uk

PowerShot A460 key features at a glance:
5 megapixels
4x optical zoom
DIGIC II, iSAPS and 5-point AiAF
Shooting modes: Auto, Camera M, Super Macro, Special Scene (Portrait, Night Snapshot, Kids & Pets, Indoor, Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks)
2.0? LCD
ISO: AUTO, 80, 100, 200, 400

PowerShot A550 key features at a glance:
7.1 Megapixels
4x optical zoom
DIGIC II, iSAPS and 9-point AiAF
Redesigned Shooting Mode dial
30fps VGA movies with sound
2.0? LCD with dedicated Playback button
ISO: AUTO, High ISO Auto, 80, 100, 200, 400, 800
Viewfinder: Real-image zoom optical viewfinder
Scene modes: Auto, Camera M, Portrait, Landscape, Night Snapshot, Indoor, Kids & Pets, Movie, Special Scene (Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Night Scene)

To read more news and past reviews about Canon cameras and accessories, click here

Got an opinion on this story? Why not post a comment on our news message boards