DIGITAL imaging is one of the biggest growth sectors of the global CE market and CES witnessed a parade of high-profile digital camera launches from all of the major brands.

Olympus debuted its Mju Digital 300 and 400 models, the first digital cameras to sport the design of the company's popular 35mm Mju models. The pair are wrapped in a weatherproof shell, feature a 3x optical and 4x digital zoom and are capable of taking three and four megapixel images. They are due in the UK in April priced at around 349.99 [pounds sterling] and 429.99 [pounds sterling] respectively.

Casio unveiled the latest in its super-slim Exilim models--the Z3. Enhancements include a three megapixel lens (as opposed to just two on its predecessor) and a larger LCD. It goes on sale in March in the UK for around 350 [pounds sterling]. Another tiny, slim model capable of snapping three megapixel images was debuted by Pentax.

The Optio S, which also features a 3x optical zoom, is expected in the UK in the summer. At the budget end of the market, Philips was among a slew of manufacturers to unveil tiny digital cameras with a built-in USB socket for easy transfer of images. Its Key Ring models are available in 1.3 and two megapixel versions and should reach the UK in the summer.

COPYRIGHT 2003 DMG World Media Ltd.
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group