Olympus Launches First 18x Zoom Digicam

The new Olympus SP-550 UZ Ultra Zoom offers the ultimate in power and versatility with a compact, best-in-class 18x optical zoom lens (28-504mm), which gives users the ability to shoot telephoto, wide-angle and macro (as close as 1cm) all in one.

Clear images can be captured far and wide with Dual Image Stabilization and the broadest focal range available on any digital point-and-shoot. The camera’s full manual exposure control provides professionals and photo-enthusiasts with unlimited creativity, while its automatic settings and Built-in Help Guides will put novice users at ease.

This revolutionary ultra zoom is equipped with several unique features to deliver near-DSLR performance in a compact size, including:

• Dual Image Stabilization combines the benefits of Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization and Digital Image Stabilization to ensure blur-free images.

• High-Speed Sequential Shooting records multiple images in rapid succession (up to 15 frames per second).

• Pre-Capture compensates for slow reaction times by capturing images (five frames) even before the shutter button is fully pressed to ensure you catch the perfect shot.

“The SP-550 UZ is the ultimate all-in-one digital camera and a perfect example of Olympus’ innovative optics,” said Michael Barnett, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “This new ultra zoom enables users of all levels to capture beautiful images in any shooting situation. Its powerful zoom, incredible speed and compact size will provide consumers an unprecedented level of performance and convenience.”

The SP-550 UZ will be available in the US by March 2007 at an estimated street price of $499.99.