Canon unveil the Digital IXUS V3

The Canon BeBit site has: Sample images Digital IXUS V3 images Specifications

Canon have announced the Digital IXUS V3 , the world's smallest 3.2 Megapixel digital camera with optical zoom and LCD monitor. The Digital IXUS V3 is stylish with an ultra compact size, packed full of the latest digital imaging technologies.

Fashioned from high quality brushed stainless steel and measuring just 87 x 57 x26.7mm, The Digital IXUS V3 features a 3.2 Megapixel CCD, a new high performance Digital Imaging Core (DIGIC) processor and a 2x optical zoom lens.

Technologies
The Digital IXUS V3 features the new and innovative Canon 'DIGIC' processor which links six key elements: CCD Control, AE/AF/AWB, signal processing, JPEG compression, memory card control and the LCD monitor display, to deliver outstanding images and overall performance.

An additional new technology to the Digital IXUS V3 is 'Intelligent Scene Analysis based on Photographic Space' (iSAPS). Each time a picture is taken, the captured image and shooting information are analysed and cross-referenced against Photographic Space data. Photographic Space data is a vast library of statistical information built into every canon digital camera to deliver optimal photographic output.

The Digital IXUS V3 also features an intelligent orientation sensor, which detects the orientation of the camera to optimise the metering and white balance in all situations. The orientation sensor allows the camera to automatically rotate the image for playback on a TV3 or when transferring images to a PC with Canon software. It also improves images as the Digital IXUS V3 can adjust the exposure to compensate for sky in the top of portrait format shots.

The Digital IXUS V3 also features the new 9-point Artificial intelligence Auto Focus (AiAF), which ensures that the subject is correctly focused in the final photograph. Combined with the intelligent orientation sensor the camera's Auto Focus can easily centre on the subject and not the background as the 9 points cover a larger area to achieve improved photographic performance.

The Digital IXUS V3 is compatible with Canon's entire range of Direct Printers: CP-10, CP-100, Bubble Jet S820D, S830D, and S530D. By simply connecting the camera to the direct printer users can immediately share prints with their friends and family without the need for a PC.

The Digital IXUS V3 allows users to record movie clips with sound of up to three minutes and it is also possible to edit directly on the camera without using PC or complex software. Short movie clips can be shared easily with friends or family by email or playback on TV3 .

Software
Compatible with both PC and Mac OS, the Digital IXUS V3 has a full suite of advanced digital-imaging software.
New ZoomBrowzer EX* application - has been updated for quicker operation and improved database reliability. Larger icons and quicker thumbnail displays make this camera extremely user friendly.
New ArcSoft PhotoImpression/ VideoImpression - This is a simple icon driven program, with images in the Album saved as thumbnails for easy recognition. The package offers a number of features to edit and modify photos in a simple and easy to use interface and comes with a several special effects and creative features to keep the adventurous user occupied.
Picture Transfer Protocol - allows driverless connection to Windows XP and Mac OS X.

PhotoStitch, PhotoRecord, RemoteCapture and File Viewer Utility are also included.

Accessories
The waterproof case (waterproof up to 30 metres) allows users to take the Digital IXUS V3 over land or under the sea.
The Car Battery Charger enables users to charge the camera's battery while on the move for maximum shooting time and convenience.
Other accessories include a soft case, AC adapter Kit, battery charger and battery pack.