July 10, 2007 – Casio, Inc. today announced two new point-and-shoot models,
the 8.1-megapixel Exilim EX-S880 and 7.2-megapixel Exilim EX-Z77. In an agreement with YouTube, both cameras have a new feature called YouTube Capture mode. The mode optimizes video capture for the Web and includes the YouTube Uploader for Casio software that breaks the upload process into two easy steps, according to a company press release today. The S880 and Z77 have a suggested retail price of $299.99 and $229.99, respectively. The cameras will ship in August.
“The increased popularity of video sharing Web sites such as YouTube offers a great opportunity for innovation,” said Casio, Inc. Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing John Homlish in the release. “We recognized that there was a demand for an easier way to upload high-quality video and are thrilled to be the first digital camera company to be able to offer a solution for consumers.”
Casio last year announced its partnership with eBay when it launched the
eBay Best Shot mode. Similar to the YouTube Capture mode, the mode optimizes still capture in resolutions suitable for the Web.
To mark the new video function, the Casio S880 and Z77 will feature a special YouTube logo sticker. Users can record video with electronic image stabilization at 640 x 480 at 30fps in MPEG-4 H.264 format, ideal for the video-sharing site, according to the release. In addition, users can record at a wide 848x480 or at 320x240, a smaller file size. The YouTube Capture mode and software will also be included in Casio’s 2007 holiday product line of Exilim cameras.
The Casio S880 and Z77 are equipped with a 3x optical zoom lens. The Casio S880 is fitted with a 2.8-inch Bright wide LCD and possesses a 4fps continuous shooting mode at a lower 2.0-megapixel resolution. The Z77 features a 2.6-inch LCD and a 5fps rate at 2-megapixel resolution.
Both Exilim cameras include the Face Sensing Engine by Oki, Casio's face detection system, which automatically sets focus and exposure for human faces. The S880 and Z77 also possess the Exilim Engine 2.0, which boosts ISO sensitivity for blur reduction, and Anti-shake DSP, which boosts shutter speed to reduce hand shake.
The Casio S880 will be available in red and black. The Z77 will be offered in black, blue, pink, and silver. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, MMC, and MMC Plus memory media.
Key Features:
New YouTube Capture mode
Exilim Engine 2.0
Face detection technology
