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Canon software turns your EOS camera into an overpowered webcam
Canon's new beta turns your EOS or PowerShot camera into a very, very high-quality webcam.
Musk: Powerpacks are coming to northern California Superchargers
As Pacific Gas and Electric blacks out power across wide swaths of northern California, Tesla CEO Elon Musk mentioned plans in place that could help Tesla owners during power outages. During past emergencies like hurricanes Irma and Florence, Tesla has used its OTA capabilities to give owners a boost, and its Powerwall can store additional power when it detects storms coming. People needing to charge their EVs might not be the same ones in most dire need of assistance while power is out, but it's a consideration under these circumstances, and an emergency he may be able to comment on without causing a lawsuit later. According to Musk, "All Tesla Supercharger stations in regions affected by California power outages will have Tesla Powerpacks within next few weeks." He also said the company is adding Tesla Solar to its stations "as fast as possible," so that drivers can get "24/7 clean power with no blackouts." While the power is out, drivers with combustion engines have trouble filling up too, but with Powerpacks, there's a backup plan. In 2017, the exec said the plan is to eventually disconnect Superchargers from the power grid entirely, and in July Tesla opened its first V3 location in Las Vegas with solar and battery power.
Canon's G7 X III can shoot vertical video for your Instagram
Canon has unveiled a pair of PowerShot cameras that are well suited for YouTube and Instagram creators, even more so than its high-end EOS R cameras. The G7 X III and G5 X II, successors to the PowerShot G7 X II and G5 X, both pack 20-megapixel 1-inch CMOS sensors with DIGIC 8 image processors, and can shoot photos at 20 fps with a respectable ISO level of 12,800.
The best cheap compact camera
By Ben Keough This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a buyer's guide to the best technology. When readers choose to buy The Wirecutter's independently chosen editorial picks, it may earn affiliate commissions that support its work. Read the full article here. After 42 hours of research and testing over the past few years, we've found that the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS (or the IXUS 285 HS, outside the US) is the best cheap point-and-shoot camera. It produces crisper, clearer photos than even some more-expensive models, and fits better into tight jeans pockets. But before you buy one, you should ask yourself if you really need this camera or if you could just use your smartphone instead.
Canon's latest premium point-and-shoot is the G9 X Mark II
Canon is refreshing its premium line of point-and-shoots with the PowerShot G9 X Mark II, a sleek camera with a decent set of specs. Notably, there's a 1-inch 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and Digic 7 image processor, coupled with a 3x optical zoom lens (28-84mm) and a 3-inch LCD. You'll also find an 8.2 frames-per-second continuous shooting mode, as well as WiFi and NFC for controlling the camera remotely. The PowerShot G9 X Mark II is expected to hit stores in February for $530/£450.
Canon introduces upgraded PowerShot and Vixia cameras
As has been the case in years past, Canon's taken to CES to reveal an upgraded line of PowerShot and Vixia cameras and camcorders. For point-and-shoots, the main model being introduced is the SX540 HS (pictured above), a superzoom model with a 24.3-megapixel, 50x optical zoom lens and Digic 6 processor. It's now capable of 1080p at 60 fps as well, compared to 30 fps on its predecessor, the SX530 HS. The company is also introducing the ELPH 360HS, which features a 22-megapixel CMOS sensor, Digic 4+ processor and a 12x optical zoom (25-300mm equivalent).
Canon's latest super-zoom camera packs a 40x lens and a low price
Canon is determined to leave no camera niche uncovered, it seems. Just a month after it kicked out an avalanche of PowerShot point-and-shoots, it's back with two more that fill what few holes are left. The SX410 IS super-zoom is the darling of the two, and improves on the still-young SX400 IS with an even longer-ranged 40x stabilized lens and a sharper 20.2-megapixel sensor for a modest $280 -- slightly more than the $250 SX400, but arguably a better deal if you just have to get up-close photos. There's sadly no WiFi or NFC, though, and you'll have to be content with recording 720p movies. The SX410 IS should hit shops in March.
Canon's newest connected cameras: when a smartphone still won't do
You know the drill: Smartphones are making compact cameras obsolete, killing the category and yada yada. But still! Camera makers launch a seemingly endless number of new models at CES, and Canon is a great example of that this year. It just unveiled no fewer than eight compact, superzoom and video cameras in the PowerShot, ELPH and VIXIA lines, along with a Pixma photo printer. The common thread among them is wireless connectivity: Each features WiFi and NFC (other than the ELPHs and VIXIA HF R600), letting you get social with your smartphone sans the optical drawbacks. The wireless aspect also provides connectivity with peripherals like Canon's Connection Station CS100 or the new Pixma MX492 photo printer.
Canon's bringing back the square selfie cam with PowerShot N2
Early last year, a Canon rep pulled out a point-and-shoot with a very peculiar design. Instead of the rectangular form factor we'd grown used to, this camera was square. The PowerShot N was designed to be held any which way, making it a good fit for both righties and lefties, but without any pronounced grip, it didn't feel quite as natural to hold. We were a bit relieved, then, when Canon debuted the N100 with a more familiar look and feel, but at Photokina, the company's returning to the original shape and size with the PowerShot N2. The N2 replaces the original N -- the N100 will remain on the market -- bringing a slew of new features for social sharers and video bloggers alike.
Canon's new PowerShot cameras are for super-zoom lovers
Despite the popularity of smartphone (and tablet) cameras increasing by the minute, companies like Canon aren't ready to throw in the towel for classics such as the point-and-shoot. With that in mind, the Japanese camera maker has introduced a pair of compact, super-zoom shooters: the PowerShot SX400 IS and PowerShot XS520HS. For starters, the entry-level SX400 IS, priced at $250, comes with a 16-megapixel CCD sensor, Digic 4+ image chip and 30x optical zoom, plus a number of "Smart Auto" features that Canon hopes make it easy for users to snap some great quality photos and video. The SX520 HS, on the other hand, is $400, but the heavier price tag, naturally, signifies a better spec sheet. There's a 16-megapixel High-Sensitivity sensor (with the same image processor as the SX400), 42x optical zoom and a mini-HDMI, as well as speedy autofocus and enhanced stabilization systems. If you're interested, you won't have to wait long to get one -- Canon's bringing the new PowerShots to market soon, starting with the SX400 IS in August and SX520 HS the following month.
Canon's burly PowerShot G1 X Mark II is a pleasure to use
This week, we met Canon's G1 X Mark II. Judging by its nomenclature, we expected a straightforward update to 2012's PowerShot flagship. Instead, this year's model is only like its predecessor when it comes to size -- the camera's specifications and design have been refined significantly. There's no longer an optical viewfinder and the 3-inch touchscreen tilts up and down instead of out to the side, but otherwise, the camera's been modified for the better, with a more powerful 24-120mm f/2-3.9 zoom lens, a new 1.5-inch sensor and a faster DIGIC 6 processor. That powerful combo yields a much more capable point-and-shoot -- with the Mark II, the G1 X can finally justify its $800 price. We caught up with the Mark II at the annual CP+ trade show in Yokohama, Japan, and while we weren't entirely convinced of the camera's practicality based on press photos and a spec sheet, a few minutes of shooting helped seal the deal. This G1 X refresh was comfortable to use and very responsive, from the speedy zoom toggle to the super-fast focusing. The LCD was quite sharp and bright, and while we missed having an optical viewfinder to play with, the boosted functionality in other departments made the tradeoff worthwhile. (Canon's also planning to offer an external electronic viewfinder -- pictured above -- which seems like a reasonable compromise.) We did struggle with focusing in macro mode, just as we did with the original X, but the lens performed quite nicely with subjects a bit more in the distance, so if you're not planning to shoot close-ups of flowers, you should be fine. Video shooters beware: while there is support for 1080/30p captures, there's no microphone input or headphone jack. In this price range, we're still inclined to recommend Sony's RX100 Mark II, despite its slightly smaller 1-inch sensor. We haven't had a chance to review full-res images from the Canon, but based on the Sony camera's superior focusing and compact size, it's likely the better choice for many photographers. That model's available now for $700, while the $800 G1 X is expected in stores this April. Check out our hands-on video for a closer look.
Canon PowerShot SX700 HS ships in March with 30x lens, WiFi, $350 price tag
In the market for a compact superzoom? Canon's new PowerShot SX700 HS is definitely worth a look. This SX280 HS replacement includes a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 6 processor, an f3.2-6.9 25-750mm (30x) zoom lens and a 3-inch 922k-dot LCD. The camera's small enough to tuck away in a jacket pocket, but it still includes a new extended hand grip on the front, making it comfortable to hold with the lens extended. It also supports 1080/60p video capture, and has WiFi and NFC on board, for remote app controls and wireless uploads to the web. Expect the SX700 to hit stores next month in black and red for $350.
Canon updates high-end PowerShot lineup with $799 G1 X Mark II
Canon introduced its PowerShot G1 X at 2012's CES, and two years later, the pricey high-end point-and-shoot is ready for an update. This year's iteration, the G1 X Mark II, includes a 12.8-megapixel CMOS sensor, and like its predecessor, this new chip measures 1.5 inches diagonally, enabling some pretty spectacular images. There's a 24-120mm f/2-3.9 zoom lens, so you can expect shallow depth of field throughout the maximum-aperture range, and sharp shots even in low light. It includes a 1.04M-dot 3-inch tilting touchscreen, a DIGIC 6 processor, 12,800 top ISO and 1080/60p 1080/30p MP4 video capture. Additionally, you can pair the Mark II with Canon's companion apps via WiFi and NFC for remote shooting and wireless image transfers. There will also be an XGA electronic viewfinder accessory that mounts on the hot shoe, should you prefer an EVF. Pricing for that add-on is TBA, but expect the G1 X Mark II to hit stores in April for $800. Update: The G1 X Mark II supports 1080/30p, not 60p video capture.
Head 82 feet below the surface with Canon's waterproof PowerShot D30
It's a very busy CP+ for Canon. The camera maker has a handful of new models for the show, including one of the waterproof variety. The PowerShot D30, which replaces 2012's D20, boosts the waterproof rating from 33 feet to 82 feet, making it a suitable choice for all but the deepest scuba dives. There's a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, a DIGIC 5 processor and support for 1080/30p video. The 5x 28-140mm lens isn't as fast as we'd like for dim underwater shoots, with an f/3.9-4.8 maximum aperture, but with the ISO bumped up a bit, it should perform decently. You can frame shots on the 3-inch 461k-dot LCD, which sports a sunlight mode for use in brighter conditions. The camera is shockproof and cold-resistant as well, and while there's no WiFi on board, it does include GPS. The PowerShot D30 is expected in stores by mid-April with a $330 MSRP.
Meet Canon's latest budget PowerShots, a trio of ELPHs
Canon's higher-end PowerShot cameras are certainly more compelling, but they're also expensive. If you're on a budget, you might want to settle for one of these ELPHs. Canon is introducing three new models this week, including the ELPH 150 IS, 140 IS and 135 -- they're priced at $150, $130 and $120, respectively. The latter duo replace the A2600 and A2500, while the 150 is a new addition to the lineup. That model includes a 20-megapixel CCD sensor, while the other two feature 16-megapixel CCDs. All three have DIGIC 4+ processors and 2.7-inch 230k-dot LCDs. They also shoot 720p video, which should certainly suffice for casual web use. The pricier two models include optical image stabilization -- in fact, the 140 IS and 135 are identical, save for the 135's lack of OIS. Those two include 8x optical zoom lenses, while the 150 IS packs a 10x zoom. All three cameras are scheduled to ship later this month.
Canon unveils WiFi-equipped PowerShot SX600 HS, ELPH 340HS point-and-shoots
It's hard to get excited about an ordinary point-and-shoot after Canon just showed off its funky PowerShot N100, but if practicality's the name of the game, this new duo will have you covered. The first model, the PowerShot SX600 HS, includes a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, a DIGIC 4+ processor, an 18x 25-450mm, f/3.8-6.9 optical zoom lens and a 3-inch 461k-dot LCD. There's also built-in WiFi and NFC, so you can pair the camera with an Android smartphone or tablet and transfer stills and video with ease. There's a Mobile Device Connect button, enabling instant access to wireless features, such as app control and uploads. The SX600 includes a Hybrid Auto mode, which records four seconds of video before each still photo; a Smart Auto mode with 32 pre-defined shooting modes; and a dedicated movie button, giving you instant access to 1080p captures. Next up is the PowerShot ELPH 340HS. This more portable cam will set you back 200 bucks, and includes a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, a DIGIC 4+ processor, a 12x 25-300mm, f/3.6-7.0 optical zoom lens and a 3-inch 461k-dot LCD. It also sports WiFi and NFC, with the same functionality outlined above, along with the same Hybrid Auto, Smart Auto and video shooting modes. The 340HS is expected to hit stores in March for $200, available in purple, black and silver. The $250 SX600 HS will be available a bit sooner -- it ships at the end of February in red, black and white.
Canon PowerShot N100 sports modified design, WiFi, rear-facing camera
We weren't quite sure what to think of Canon's PowerShot N, an unusual-looking point-and-shoot with a large touchscreen and a square design that launched at last year's CES. That model didn't follow the traditional pocket camera form factor, and while we were happy to give Canon some props for innovation, we weren't convinced the N would be a success. And now, well-received or not, the non-traditional cam is back. This year, it's the PowerShot N100 -- and Canon even had the chutzpah to price this thing higher than its 2013 equivalent, at $350. That sum will net you a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor, Canon's latest DIGIC 6 processor, a 5x f/1.8-5.7 (24-120mm) optically stabilized zoom lens, and a 3-inch, 922k-dot touchscreen that flips up 90 degrees. There's WiFi, like last year's model, along with NFC, so you can tap the camera to a compatible Android smartphone for instant image and video transfers. But the spec Canon is pushing most with the N100 is a secondary rear-facing camera. We've seen plenty of rear-facing cams on smartphones and even a few tablets, but this appears to be the first time a manufacturer is including one on a dedicated point-and-shoot. The intention here is that photographers will use this second camera to capture their own expression in still or video form alongside content coming in through the primary lens. We first experienced this concept with LG's Optimus G Pro, and while it's a bit gimmicky, we can see Dual Capture resonating well with Canon's target demographic. There's also a Hybrid Auto mode that snaps four seconds of video before each still photo, a Creative Shot mode enabling a handful of assistive options and a standard video mode for capturing clips at up to 1080p. The PowerShot N100, available in black and white, will run you $350 when it ships in May.
Canon appeals to internet socialites with PowerShot N Facebook camera
Facebook fanatics have a smartphone to call their own, and now they have a camera, too. Canon's PowerShot N, which first made its debut at CES, just scored a few (relatively minor) tweaks. The point-and-shoot features an unusual square design, so it can be rotated and held in a variety of orientations. There's a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 5 processor, 28-224mm f/3.0-5.9 8x optical zoom lens and a 2.8-inch capacitive-touch tilting LCD, just as you'll find on the original. In fact, the Facebook branding represents the only significant change here, including a dedicated button on the side to upload images to the site (via built-in WiFi) and a new Facebook upload option in the system menu. It's hardly worth "upgrading" from the original N, but if Facebook is your life, get ready to hand over 300 bucks for this Canon online store exclusive beginning next month.
Canon intros PowerShot G16, S120, SX170 IS, SX510 HS point-and-shoot cameras
Canon's got a handful of incremental updates to detail today, including a selection of PowerShot point-and-shoots. The G16 is the priciest of the bunch, ringing in at $550. This model, which is set to ship in October, replaces last year's G15, and includes a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 6 processor, 5x 28-140mm f/1.8-2.8 optical zoom lens and 1080/60p video capture. Next up is the S120, retailing for $450, also in October. This pocketable S110 replacement includes a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 6 processor, 5x 24-120mm f/1.8-5.7 optical zoom lens and 1080/60p video capture. The SX510 HS is the cheapest of this premium bunch, with a $250 MSRP. This superzoom, expected in September, packs a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 processor, a 30x 24-720mm f/3.4-5.8 optical zoom lens and 1080p video. The G15, S120 and SX510 HS all include built-in WiFi, letting you pair the camera with Canon's Image Gateway Android or iOS app to upload shots to a variety of social networking sites, including Facebook, Twitter and Flickr. The final model, the PowerShot SX170 IS, does not include WiFi. It's quite a bit cheaper at $180, however, and should ship in September. This entry-level cam includes a 16-megapixel sensor, DIGIC 4 processor, a 16x 28-448mm f/3.5-5.9 image-stabilized lens and 720p video. That last flavor replaced the SX160 IS, which launched last year as well. The SX170 swaps a rechargeable battery pack for its predecessor's AAs, resulting in a thinner profile. Catch a bit more on all four models in the press release after the break.
Canon announces PowerShot SX280 HS with WiFi, ISO 6400 and 20x lens, we go hands-on
How do you justify splurging for a pricey point-and-shoot when your smartphone takes "good enough" pictures on its own? A 20x lens, for starters. Canon's new PowerShot SX280 HS is small enough to tuck away in a pocket, yet it packs a 25-500mm f/3.5-6.8 lens. That's old news for SX260 owners, though -- last year's model offered an identical range. There's plenty of new features, however, including a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, built-in WiFi, a DIGIC 6 processor, 1080/30p and 60p video capture, a sensitivity range of ISO 80-6400 with significantly improved image quality in low light, a 14 fps Burst HQ mode and a 260-shot battery rating in Eco Mode (compared to 210 shots under normal conditions). Those features are joined by a 3-inch 461k-dot LCD and GPS, both of which shipped on the SX260. During our hands-on, we quickly noticed the SX280 HS' significant speed boost -- it's 50 percent faster than its predecessor when it comes to focusing and shutter lag, and it definitely shows. The Burst HQ mode was also quite impressive, though you're unfortunately limited to just seven consecutive shots. The camera has a solid feel, though it's not terribly heavy. A very slim pop-up flash on the top, compact dedicated mode dial on the rear and a slightly extended front grip help to distinguish this model from lesser-equipped point-and-shoots, though both the red and black matte finishes convey a premium look on their own. You can catch both colors in person when the camera hits stores in April with a $330 MSRP, or you can sneak a peek right now in our hands-on gallery attached to this post.%Gallery-181055%
