Canon PowerShot A720 IS

Connectivity
Software (6.75)
Like most cameras, the PowerShot A720 IS comes with software for viewing and editing photos, but Canon’s package also allows users to also edit videos and audio. The Canon Digital Camera Solution Disk version 31.0 is compatible with Windows and Macintosh platforms. Windows programs include ZoomBrowser EX 6.0, PhotoStitch 3.1, Camera TWAIN Driver 6.8, and EOS Utility 1.1a. Macintosh programs include ImageBrowser 6.0, PhotoStitch 3.2, and EOS Utility 1.1.

ZoomBrowser

With ZoomBrowser, users can load, organize, and print images. The program is thorough and organized, and allows users to view their images in a variety of ways: Zoom, Scroll, or Preview with file information and shooting conditions, including a histogram and EXIF data.

ZoomBrowser editing

PhotoStitch stitches up to 26 images together in a panoramic wide composite. Users can change the settings so images are not simply linearly stitched together but layered on top or below one another. The program efficiently lines up images accurately.
Finally, Canon includes EOS Utility to allow users to shoot remotely from the computer. EOS Utility is typically included with SLRs and not point-and-shoots. The included program allows users to easily shoot nature or fashion, for example.

PhotoStitch

EOS Utility

Jacks, Ports, Plugs (6.25)
The Canon PowerShot A720 IS has three ports, safely hidden under a rubber door on the side of the camera body: DC in, Digital USB is for computer connection, and AV out for viewing photos or video on the television.

Direct Print Options (7.0)
Users can set DPOF with this PictBridge-compatible camera using the Print menu during Playback. Users can select a single image, groups of images up to 998 image files, or all images and prepare them for print. Each picture can be assigned a number of prints up to 99. There is also a specific "Select All Images" function that designates one print per photo for all pictures stored on the memory card; this speeds up the process once users connect the camera to a PictBridge-compatible printer. In addition, users can assign type of print as Standard or Index, much like a contact sheet. Users can also print with date information or file number included.

Battery (4.75)
Canon called the PowerShot A720 IS part of its "A-Team," standing for the A-series with compatible AA batteries. The PowerShot includes four AA alkaline batteries. The camera accepts two AA batteries in alkaline or Ni-MH form. AA batteries, as opposed to lithium-ion batteries, are convenient for vacations since the power source can be found at any convenience store. However, AA batteries are arguably less reliable since they drain quicker. Users should note battery life is significantly improved when the LCD screen is turned off by hitting the display button, and the optical viewfinder is used to frame photos. On AA alkaline batteries, the PowerShot reportedly shoots up to 140 shots with the LCD on, as opposed to 400 shots with AA Ni-MH batteries.

Memory (3.25)
In addition to the 16 MB of internal memory, the Canon PowerShot A720 IS package comes with two 16 MB SD memory cards. A 16 MB SD card can hold only three full-resolution images. Users will certainly need to purchase an additional memory card. The PowerShot is compatible with SD, SDHC, MMC, MMC Plus, and HC MMC Plus media.

Other Features (5.0)
Optional Underwater Housing Case – The Canon PowerShot A720 IS is compatible with an optional underwater housing case, the WP-DC16. With the waterproof camera accessory, the PowerShot camera can be submerged underwater up to 130 feet.

Optional Lens Converters – Users can extend zoom range with Canon optional accessories that attach to the existing lens: Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC58G, Wide Converter WC-DC58N, Tele-converter TC-D58N, and the Close-up Lens 250D (58mm).