Steve's Digicams - Breaking News - Olympus 08/23/06 Press Release

New Olympus FE-Series Digital Cameras Deliver Features And Functionality At Affordable Prices

Four New 6.0-Megapixel Cameras Designed For Ease-of-Use with Built-In Help Guides, Large 2.5-Inch LCDs and Digital Image Stabilization

Center Valley, Pa, August 23, 2006 – Olympus today announced four new FE-Series point-and- shoot digital cameras that combine stylish design and approachable functionality to provide a fulfilling digital experience. Slim, compact styling and new features have been added to these latest FE cameras, including Digital Image Stabilization, a large 2.5-inch LCD, a 6.0- megapixel CCD image sensor, a 3x or 5x optical zoom and much more.

"The Olympus FE-Series cameras are designed for effortless picture taking and provide a variety of user-friendly features to easily navigate the cameras’ capabilities," said Naoki Tai, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "Features ranging from the Help Guide to the large LCD screen will provide an enjoyable digital experience to first-time users. Beyond their affordable price, the cameras also offer incredible image quality without a large learning curve."

Unique Features of The New FE-Series Cameras

While the FE-Series digital cameras offer many of the same great features, each camera also has an impressive function of its own to lend an air of distinction, this includes:

• FE-170: An entry-level camera, which enables new users to shoot clear, crisp images with ease. The FE-170’s optional water-resistance case provides worry-free fun at the beach and pool. Users can capture photos while swimming to 10 feet below the surface.

• FE-180: Offers longer battery life than most other point and shoot cameras – up to 500 shots on a single charge – with the new bundled Ni-MH rechargeable batteries. Weddings, vacations/tours and other lengthy events are no challenge for this new digital camera.

• FE-190: Its 0.7-inch slim design and durable metal body makes this one of the most compact members of the FE family. Perfect for active lifestyles, the FE-190 fits inside a shirt pocket or small handbag.

• FE-200: The camera’s 5x wide optical zoom (28mm-140mm equivalent in 35mm photography) makes it easy to get everyone and everything into one shot. The FE-200 captures large family photographs, even when there’s no room to back up, as well as vast scenic panoramas. Its metal body provides durability and a sleek appearance that would fit-in at any cocktail party.

Features Shared By the New FE-Series Cameras

Easy Operation

The new FE-series cameras feature an enhanced Help Guide that makes digital photography simple for users of all levels. A tutorial "shooting guide" educates users on tips for achieving specific effects, such as "shooting into backlight" and "adjusting coloration." The shooting guide not only provides detailed descriptions for various photographic scenarios, but also actually sets the camera with the touch of a button, making the transition from learning to doing instantaneous.

The FE-Series cameras also feature a "One Touch" design with individual buttons for shooting, reviewing and deleting images, conveniently located on the top of the cameras with icons so that frequently used functions can be accessed easily. Shooting, playback, zoom and delete options are at your fingertips. Macro mode, flash mode and a self-timer are located on an arrow pad for quick use while setting up the perfect composition.

Digital Image Stabilization Mode

The new FE cameras feature Digital Image Stabilization Mode for capturing crisp, clear pictures – free from the blur sometimes caused by camera shake or moving subjects – with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speed.

Large LCD Provides Clear Images

The large 2.5-inch LCD screens make it easier to see clear images when composing shots, as well as when gathering friends and family around to view the results, all without having to lug a laptop around to present your portable photo gallery exhibit.

Pre-Set Shooting Modes Make It Easy to Capture Great Images

The inclusion of 16 shooting modes, including QuickTime® Movie, accessed via a rotating dial and menu button on the back of the cameras makes it easy to capture great images in a variety of lighting situations, such as Sports, Fireworks, and Night Scene with Portrait. The FE-180, FE-190 and FE-200 models offer QuickTime® Movie mode, which enables users to create short movies of events that can be emailed to family and friends.

Simple Connection to PC

Linking any FE-Series camera to a computer is easy with the USB Auto Connect feature, which connects the camera directly via USB 2.0 cable and requires no software.

OLYMPUS Master Software

Back at the Windows® PC or Mac®, OLYMPUS Master software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple. Images are searchable by date or keyword in the Calendar View. With one-click editing tools, such as red-eye reduction, images can be touched-up before printing or emailing. Online support, templates and other user services are just a mouse-click away.

Accessory Neoprene Carrying Case

Olympus’ optional Neoprene Carrying Case offers the camera protection from the elements and other items in your backpack. The case is made of soft, flexible neoprene fabric with a modern, sporty design.

Availability

The FE-170, 180, 190 and 200 will be available in September 2006.

The FE-170 includes: AA alkaline battery x2, USB cable, Video cable, Wrist strap, Quick Start guide, basic manual, CD-ROM (includes OLYMPUS Master software and advanced manual) and warranty.

The FE-180/190/200 include: Rechargeable battery (FE-180 – Ni-MH, FE-190/200- Lithium-Ion) and Charger, USB cable, Audio/Video cable, Wrist strap, Quick Start guide, Basic manual, CD-ROM (including OLYMPUS Master software and advanced manual) and warranty.

U.S. Pricing

FE-170 Estimated Street Price: .99 (U.S.)
FE-180 Estimated Street Price: .99 (U.S.)
FE-190 Estimated Street Price: .99 (U.S.)
FE-200 Estimated Street Price: .99 (U.S.)

Olympus Imaging America Inc is a precision technology leader, designing and delivering award-winning products for consumer and professional markets.

Olympus Imaging America works collaboratively with its customers and its parent company, Olympus Corporation, to develop breakthrough technologies with revolutionary product design and functionality that enhances peoples lives every day. These include:

• Digital and film cameras

• Professional SLR Imaging Systems

• Digital and Microcassette recorders

• Digital Music Players

• Personal Photo Printers

• Digital Print Kiosks

• Digital Video Projectors

• Digital Media

• Binoculars

Olympus Imaging America Inc. is responsible for sales in United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. For more information, visit: www.olympusamerica.com.