New format to make SLR cameras smaller and lighter

Posted on 5 Aug 2008 at 15:33

Japanese camera manufacturers Olympus and Matsushita have announced a new digital camera format that will make single lens reflex (SLR) cameras smaller and lighter. The two companies are hoping that their format will entice compact digital camera users to switch to SLRs.

SLR cameras represent the fastest growing segment of the digital camera market - and a healthy revenue stream for manufacturers. The major hurdle that the segment has seen is reluctance from customers due to the bulky nature of SLR6 cameras.

However, the new format - called 'Micro Four Thirds System' - aims to create a lighter version of the existing Four Thirds system; an open standard that specifies the size of the imaging sensor and lens mount.

"Packing high picture quality into a body thin enough to slide into a pocket. That is the basic concept of Micro Four Thirds," said Haruo Ogawa, head of Olympus Imaging SLR business division.

The two companies refused to disclose the actual size or design of their new Micro Four Thirds System cameras, and chose not to disclose prices or launch timings.

Author: Dawinderpal Sahota

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