In a move that won’t surprise anyone that has been listening out for rumors, Nikon has launched the D300S, a refreshed version of its successful mid-level DSLR. Compared to the D300, It offers full 720p HD video recording, a faster 7 fps continuous shooting and Dual CF and SD card slots. It also sees an addition of a new Quiet drive mode and a dedicated Live View and Info button. The camera’s recommended selling price is $1799.

Nikon announces the D300S, a camera to broaden the possibilities for today’s creative image makers. The D300S brings HD movie capability, a faster frame advance rate of 7fps and dual CF and SD memory card slots to offer new opportunities to explore creative imaging. Built upon the widely acclaimed D300, the D300S incorporates the same DX-format 12.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, professional 51-point autofocus system and commended EXPEED image processing in a discrete compact body.

Robert Cristina, Manager, Professional Products for Nikon Europe, comments: “The D300S is designed for today’s generation of creative image makers who want to combine brilliant stills in photography with the creative potential of video capture. The DX format has the advantage of lens magnification, compact size and affordability making the D300S a really exciting package for anyone looking to take their photography to another level”…

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T-Mobile USA, Inc., and HTC Corp. today announced the upcoming availability of the HTC Touch Pro2™, a powerful, stylish device with an intuitive touch screen and user interface that enables customers to simplify their communication and mobile Internet experience while staying connected, informed and in control of work and life. The device will be available in a mocha finish to T-Mobile customers beginning Aug. 12

Enabled for T-Mobile’s expanding high-speed 3G network and Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g), the HTC Touch Pro2 offers fast data delivery and an enhanced Web-browsing experience along with popular features such as built-in GPS and location-based services. Featuring a 3.6-inch color WVGA touchscreen that slides back and tilts up to reveal a full-QWERTY keyboard, the screen is perfectly positioned for reading and creating e-mail, browsing the Web, using applications, and playing videos and games. A 3.2 megapixel camera with auto focus also provides customers with an easy way to capture and share high-quality images and video as well as view that content on the crisp display.

The HTC Touch Pro2 also offers an efficient way for customers to manage their daily lives, whether at work or play. A single contact view displays the individual conversation history regardless of whether voice, text or e-mail was used. The HTC Touch Pro2 also includes Straight Talk technology, an integrated e-mail, voice and speakerphone experience that provides a simple way to respond to e-mail via a call, allows organizing conference calls from group e-mail, and makes it easy to turn any location into a conference room. Straight Talk delivers a high-fidelity voice and sound experience enhanced by asymmetric speakers and advanced noise suppression with full-duplex acoustics.

HTC’s latest TouchFLO 3D interface is deeply integrated into a customized version of Windows Mobile 6.1 to deliver maximum consistency throughout Windows Mobile applications and menus. This makes it easy for customers to view, edit and update Microsoft documents, conveniently access calendars and manage to-do lists. Access to Microsoft Voice Command also simplifies locating contacts in the address book, making phone calls, getting calendar information, playing music and starting programs. The HTC Touch Pro2 is also stereo Bluetooth® capable.

“This summer, many people are balancing summer vacations and time away from the office with the pressures of the workplace,” said Travis Warren, director, product marketing, T-Mobile USA. “We are pleased to announce the HTC Touch Pro2, a uniquely designed device that will help customers manage their day-to-day activities, whether they are in the office or working from an airport, the local playground or the car.”

“The HTC Touch Pro2 offers the most powerful productivity experience available on a mobile phone, while also delivering unparalleled elegance in both its exterior and user interface design,” said Jason Mackenzie, vice president of HTC America. “HTC and T-Mobile have a history of introducing groundbreaking products, and this collaboration continues with the debut of this highly anticipated device to the U.S. market.”

By Engadget

Fujifilm has introduced the FinePix F70EXR featuring a new half-inch 10 megapixel Super CCD EXR sensor. It has a 10X image-stabilized zoom starting at 27mm equivalent and a 2.7 inch LCD screen. The EXR technology uses the sensor in three different ways to optimize resolution, dynamic range or low-light performance. The camera features a new Pro-Focus and a Pro-Low light mode which use multiple exposures in an attempt to mimic DSLR depth-of-field and low light performance.

By DPR

Olympus has announced the addition of Stylus Tough 6010 (µ TOUGH-6010 in Europe) to its rugged compact camera series. It is claimed to be waterproof up to 3 meters, freeze proof up to -10 degrees and shockproof up to 1.5 meters. The camera has a 12MP sensor, a 2.7″ LCD with Tap Control, 3.6x zoom lens starting at 28mm and offers features such as Dual Image Stabilization and built-in ‘Magic’ filters.

From adrenaline packed days to activities with the family, the Olympus µ TOUGH-6010 is ready for action. Whether enjoying a day at the beach or out carving on the slopes, this 12 Megapixel powerhouse is the ultimate companion. Shockproof, waterproof, and freezeproof just like the rest of the µ TOUGH series, it ensures extreme fun. Aspiring artists can even find their fill with a new set of Magic Filters. Featuring a 3.6x wide optical zoom, the µ TOUGH-6010 is of course also packed with the latest in Olympus opto-digital technology. Boasting everything from Dual Image Stabilisation to Tap Control, it was created to ensure photographic peace of mind while enjoying life’s many adventures. Available in a striking choice of colours, the latest µ TOUGH will be available from July 2009 for a retail price of £299.99

With the Olympus µ TOUGH-6010, photographers never have to worry about going where a camera can’t take the knocks. In addition to being freezeproof to -10 C, it is waterproof to 3m* and provides shockproof protection against drops of up to 1.5m**. The versatile 3.6x wide optical zoom (28-102mm***) seen on the TIPA award winning µ TOUGH-8000 is also on board for great group photos or close-ups of distant subjects. To make those shots even more memorable, the µ TOUGH-6010 now features inspiring Magic Filters. By applying Pin Hole, for example, images will seem to have been taken with a traditional pin hole camera. Pop Art, Fish-Eye, and Sketch add interesting effects of their own. What’s more, Dual Image Stabilisation keeps images blur-free even in rough and tumble environments. And so you’re always ready for that perfect shot, a practical Tap Control mode gives even gloved-hands easy access to a range of settings which can be viewed on the 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal III LCD. The display’s new “triple coating” protects it against reflection, scratches, and moisture to ensure comfortable shooting on the ski slopes and under water.

Since you don’t get a second chance for the perfect shot in the heat of the action, the µ TOUGH-6010 also boasts a range of clever functions. Delivering perfect images of once in a lifetime moments i-Auto Mode, for example, automatically adjusts camera settings to one of five recognised commonly-used scenes. In addition, Advanced Face Detection Technology detects up to 16 faces for consistent quality across group portraits. And for a flawless look under tough conditions, Beauty Mode is on hand to smooth out imperfections and leave subjects looking refreshed.

The shockproof, waterproof, and freezeproof µ TOUGH-6010 is a sturdy and reliable companion that will meet any challenge. It arrives in stores in July 2009 along with a new software version: Olympus Master 2.2 for more image management and editing possibilities.

By DPR