CIPA just released the full 2017 camera shipment results. And there are many interesting news:

1) For the first time in many years the last year wasn’t worse than the year before. The market sales value increased by exactly 4%. Honestly, I wouldn’t be too much happy about it because in 2016 we had the massive sensor shortage because of the Kumamoto Sony factory damage (caused by the earthquake).

2) DSLR sales decreased by 10% compared to 2016 but Mirrorless sales went up 40%. And I guess that in 2018 with Nikon and Canon going “serious” with mirrorless this marks the beginning of the end for the DSLR market.

Here you have the full data:

Few weeks ago Kodak announced the launch of their own Kodakcoin cryptocurrency. This news made the stock value raise about 200%. But many wondered if Kodak was actually serious about this. Today Kodak issued the following statement:

Thank you for your interest in the KODAKCoin ICO. With over 40,000 potential investors expressing an interest in the ICO on www.KODAKCoin.com, we are now moving into the “accredited investor” verification phase. Given the large interest in the KODAKCoin ICO and the steps that we need to take to verify the “accredited investor” status of each interested investor, we expect this process to take several weeks.

We will be contacting all potential investors that have previously registered for the ICO shortly for additional information to confirm their “accredited investor” status. The KODAKCoin ICO is being offered pursuant to an exemption from registration under the US Securities Act of 1933 provided by Rule 506(c) of Regulation D thereunder. As a result, participation in the KODAKMRCoin ICO is open only to those investors deemed to be “accredited investors” under Regulation D (e.g., any natural person (i) whose individual net worth, or joint net worth with his or her spouse, exceeds $1 million, or (ii) who had an individual income in excess of $200,000, or joint income with his or her spouse in excess of $300,000, in each of the two most recent years, and has a reasonable expectation of reaching the same income level in the current year). MirrorlessRumors
In addition, the KODAKCoin ICO will be offered outside the US to select non-US persons in accordance with the applicable laws of each jurisdiction where such offers and sales occur.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO HIGHLIGHT THAT AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST MADE BY A PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR TO DATE IN THE KODAKCOIN ICO IS NON-BINDING AND INVOLVES NO OBLIGATION OR COMMITMENT OF ANY KIND.

IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING FRAUDULENT WEBSITES:

It has come to our attention that there are several spam KODAKCoin ICO websites and Facebook sites promoting and even purporting to sell KODAKCoin tokens. Please be advised that there is only one official KODAKOne and KODAKCoin Facebook page and our official ICO website is www.KODAKCoin.com. MirrorlessRumors
In addition, please be advised that any offers or sales of KODAKCoin tokens will be made pursuant only to an Offering Memorandum that will be distributed to accredited investors. Potential investors are strongly encouraged to read the Offering Memorandum in its entirety before making any investment decision with regard to the KODAKCoin tokens.

Fujifilm X-A5 at BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon
Fujinon XC 15-45 at BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon
Fujifilm X-A20 not yet available for preorder

Fujinon XC 15-45:

• Official Press Release / Product Page / Owners Manual
• Review of the Fujifilm X-A5 and XC15-45mm OIS PZ F3.5-5.6 lens at keithwee

Fujifilm X-A5:

• Official Press Release / Product Page /
• Fujifilm X-A5 first impressions at imaging-resource

Fujifilm X-A20:

• Announced but no product page live yet. On Fuji’s Manual page the camera is listed, and it says manual available in February

It remains a complete mystery to me if that 4D RED phone will be successfull or if it will be a big fail. But at last we learned that the Hydrogen phone will start shipping out this summer.

Jim Jannard shared some new details I will repost here:

—–

1st off… I can proudly say that my current phone (and Jarred’s) is a working HYDROGEN One… serial numbers EVT1- 0001 and 0002. While there are still a few things to add, it does everything we need from a cell phone… plus display 4-view content. It is awesome. If we never sell one phone… I am totally happy. We both have exactly what we wanted.

What makes HYDROGEN important… in no particular order.

1. Display tech.
In 2D mode (normal cell phone) the display is completely as you would expect. 2560×1440 resolution. Fantastic color and brightness.
In 4V mode (holographic), the screen dims a bit and out pops a “better than 3D” image… no glasses needed. There is no way to describe this. You just have to see it. So far, everyone that has seen it gasps, swears or just grins. I wish we had recorded all the reactions. Priceless.

2. Multichannel spatial sound… from the phone’s internal stereo speakers or headphones.

The audio demo has achieved as high of marks as the display tech. Same reactions. Again, no way to describe. You just need to hear it.

3. Multi-component modular system.

This is all done through our pogo pin system on the back of the phone. It provides power and data in both directions and modules are stackable. Think battery module, cinema grade camera module, and a variety of others.

4. Industrial design.

This works. The scallops make it easier to hold, fish out of your pocket… and looks cool as hell.
Now… to answer some of your burning questions.

1. Delivery date and carrier support.

Carrier support for Hydrogen is unprecedented… we just can’t tell you yet. Safe to say it is as good as it gets. This is great news for many obvious reasons, but it is bad news for the time that it takes for each carrier to certify the Hydrogen before it can launch. We have no control over that process and are at the mercy of the carriers when they can get through that process. This means “official” ship date for carrier phones is going to likely be sometime in the summer. “Unlocked” Pre-orders will however ship before that.

2. So when can you see it?

We are showing prototypes now to content producing partners in preparation for the HYDROGEN Network. This will be the one place to find all 4V content online. From major studios and other content providers to creating your own channel.
We will have a HYDROGEN Day at RED Studios to preview the technology and demonstrate how to become a content provider as well as show to pre-order customers… probably in April.

3. Spec update.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 835x processor. Unlocked or carrier specific.
The HYDROGEN One has a headphone jack. And a dual SIM slot. Two phone numbers or one sim and one micro SD card. USB-C.
It weighs about 2 ounces more than most 5.7” cell phones. The size is just slightly bigger than other 5.7” cell phones… like a few millimeters. It is also just a tad thicker. Think SOLID.
The internal battery is huge. 4500mA. We anticipate these being used a lot for image capture and content play.
Big news… shoot 3D to 4V on the cell phone. Both sides. You won’t need a module. We also break out a normal 2D companion file so you don’t have to.

4. How to shoot and create 4V content. There will be a separate comprehensive post on this topic.

5. What is the resolution in 4V?

Complex answer. The 4V files match the pixel resolution of a traditional 2D file, which is great for downloading. The resolution perception is just different. The horizontal resolution of 2D is now split into depth layers. It gives a completely different feeling. All the pixels are there… but instead of “looking at” a pic, you are immersed in the image. It is quite spectacular. As a resolution guy, I absolutely prefer watching 4V over 2D.

6. Will I be able to share my 4V content captured on the HYDROGEN One?

Absolutely. We will be able to announce our social media partners pretty soon. You will not be disappointed who is supporting HYDROGEN 4V. Big dogs. Additionally, you will be able to set up your own channel on the HYDROGEN Network. Sell your 4V projects or give them away for free.

I’d like to thank everyone that placed a preorder… you won’t be disappointed.

Jim

BHphoto officially market as discontinued the Nikon 1 V3 (Click here) and the Nikon 1 AW1 (Click here). Now the only camera that is still in Stock is the Nikon 1 J5. But despite Nikon promising it would not kill the line I am somehow “feeling” they were lying :)

via CameraJabber

We are getting closer to the big Nikon Full Frame camera unveiling. but so far we know zero about the possible specs and tech. A hint might come from two brand new patents published this week in Japan. Nikoneye.com spotted them and they both describe a new autofocus system which seems to pretty much work like the “dual pixel autofocus” from Canon. But what’s added is also a time of flight measurement which measures the exact distance to the object. This is a tech first introduced by Sony.

The google translated patent says this:

There is known a time-of-flight (TOF) measurement method for measuring a distance to an object by receiving reflected light of light irradiated to the object (for example, Patent Reference 1). When measuring the distance to the object by such a method, it is difficult to obtain the image of the object at the same time.

It has a set part which sets up the range which detects a focusing state from the information about the exit pupil of the aforementioned imaging optical system, and the information about the aforementioned pixel for focus detection, and a transmission section which transmits the information about the aforementioned range set up by the aforementioned 

Fuji announced the new Xp130 which you can already preorder at BHphoto. I find it amazing that Fuji had an announcement today, has another announcement next week (Jan 31 for the X-A5) and has another one on Feb 14 (X-H1). They never rest :)

Press Release

FUJIFILM INTRODUCES NEW RUGGED FINEPIX XP130, THE PERFECT COMPANION FOR ANY ADVENTURE

Featuring the latest Bluetooth® technology, four rugged protection features and versatile shooting functions in a compact, lightweight body

Valhalla, N.Y., January 24, 2018 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation has announced the FinePix XP130, the newest addition to the rugged XP series. The XP130 is the first in the line to feature the latest Bluetooth® technology for easy to use, instant image transfer, and is also equipped with new shooting functions such as an Electronic Level and Eye Detection to provide even greater versatility. Equipped with a FUJINON lens and four rugged protection features in a lightweight body, the new XP130 is durable and delivers high quality images, making it the perfect companion for any kind of adventure.

Four-Way Rugged Protection for Worry-Free Use

The XP130 is waterproof up to 65 feet / 20 meters, shockproof up to 5.7 feet / 1.75 meters, freeze proof to 14°F / -10°C and dustproof, and features a protective, double-locking mechanism for the battery compartment. With a grip design for firm one-handed grip, the new XP130 is designed for ease of use and is tough enough for shooting in all situations.

Bluetooth® Pairing and Wireless LAN Connectivity for Photo Transfer and Instax Printing

Now featuring the latest Bluetooth® technology, the XP130 can instantly transfer images to a smartphone or tablet, while syncing time and location information from the camera to the images. Utilizing the free “FUJIFILM Camera Remote” app, users can take advantage of this new feature to quickly and easily share photos and videos with family or friends. Images can even be transferred from the XP130 directly to an Instax SHARE™ Printer.

Premium Image Quality Achieved with High-Performance Sensor and Lens

The new XP130 is equipped with a 16.4 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and FUJINON 5x optical zoom lens that includes a 28mm wide-angle setting and provides unique color reproduction technology and advanced sharpness to deliver outstanding image quality. With Intelligent Digital Zoom technology, the optical zoom range can be doubled to 10x, and, utilizing optical image stabilization, the XP130 minimizes the effects of camera shake even in low light conditions.

Compact and lightweight with a Large LCD monitor and Ease of Use Design

Compact and lightweight, the new XP130 features a large 3.0-inch 920K-dot high definition LCD monitor with anti-reflective, enabling users to comfortably check composition and pictures taken in bright daylight or underwater. The operation buttons on the XP130 are of optimal size and positioned to enable smooth operation and ease of use even while wearing gloves or holding the camera with one hand.

Versatile Shooting Functions for Enhanced Photography

The XP130 features a new Electronic Level feature that is particularly useful when capturing horizontal subjects such as beautiful landscapes, scenery or architecture. There is also a new Eye Detection feature that is designed to focus on the eyes of the subject, enabling the user to capture portraits with ease. Additional features include Cinemagraph mode that produces still images with moving elements, the Time-Lapse Video function that automatically converts images to video format utilizing the interval timer, the Burst Mode that captures up to 10 fps and smooth HD video recording of 60 fps.

FinePix XP130 Key Features:

• 16.4MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor and FUJINON 5x optical zoom lens with 28mm wide-angle setting
  • Intelligent Digital Zoom function extends zoom range up to 10x
• Four-way protection:
  • Waterproof up to 65 feet/20 meters, shockproof to 5.7 feet/1.75 meters, freeze proof to 14°F/ -10°C and dust proof
• Compact lightweight design with 3.0 inch 920K dot high definition LCD monitor with anti-reflective coating
• Bluetooth® Pairing and Wireless LAN connectivity, Smartphone Transfer and the FUJIFILM Camera Remote app
  • Transfer photos and videos from the XP130 to your smartphone or tablet, or directly to the Instax SHARE SP-2 or SP-3 Printer for quick, high-quality prints
• Scene Recognition Mode quickly determines the scene before optimizing focus, exposure and shutter speed for best possible results
  • Underwater and underwater macro functions available

• Electronic Level Feature: Can be used to capture horizontal subjects
  • Eye Detection feature helps to capture portraits easily by automatically focusing on subject’s eyes

• Remote Shooting function: Allows for wireless connection from the XP130 to a smartphone or tablet for remote camera operations such as releasing the shutter or zooming in and out
• Interval Timer Shooting: Automatically shoots any number of images in set intervals
  • Interval can be set to either 5 or 10 minutes, or 15, 30 or 60 seconds

• Burst Mode up to 10 fps, and Advanced Burst Mode capable of shooting at up to 60 fps
• TimeLapse Video: Automatically converts images taken with interval timer to video
  • Frame rates of 10fps, 30fps or 60 fps can be selected along with three different types of movie size, including full HD.  Allows for capturing transitions in nature from a stationary point, such as sunsets or opening flowers

• Cinemagraph mode: Produces still images with moving elements
• Motion Panorama 360° function for superb panoramic shots, and the Advanced Filter function to create advanced artistic effects with ease
  • Select from 11 filters when taking pictures or 7 filters during video recording

• Records smooth Full HD video at 1080/60p with a dedicated movie button
• Wind Filter Setting: reduces wind noise which is often a problem with outdoor movie recording

Availability and Pricing

The FinePix XP130 will be released in March 2018 in the U.S. and Canada for USD$229.95 and CAD $239.99.