October 11, 2005 – The UK and Japan-based subsidiaries of Fujifilm announced the FinePix Z2 today. The Z2 upgrades the Fujifilm FinePix Z1’s ISO settings and LCD resolution, but keeps the same slim body and non-extending 3x optical zoom lens. Both cameras have 5.1 effective megapixels on a 1/2.5-inch CCD and Real Photo Processors. The new Fujifilm FinePix Z2 will be released in the UK and Japan in November; pricing information is not yet available.
One of the Fujifilm Z1’s main selling points was its ability to capture images in low light without the need of a flash. The Z1 offered ISO settings from 64-800; the new Z2 extends that range to include ISO 1600.
“It’s ironic that most ultra-slim cameras struggle where they are most frequently used – in low-light social situations, such as parties,” said Adrian Clarke, Fujifilm’s director of photo products. “With four times the sensitivity, combined with iconic design, the FinePix Z2 Zoom is a camera that truly qualifies as an evening companion.”
The other major upgrade is the LCD screen resolution. Both the Z1 and Z2 have 2.5-inch LCD screens, but the Z1 only has 115,000 pixels. The new Fujifilm FinePix Z2 has a much smoother view with 232,000 pixels. Its large screen comes on a slim body that is available in black or white.
The Z2 and Z1 share most other specifications. The 5.1-megapixel digital cameras come with a continuous shooting feature, a VGA movie mode that shoots 30 frames per second, and five automatic preset modes.
