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Fujifilm teases a new X-mount camera with full manual dials and possible weather sealing
Fujilfilm's current range of X-mount cameras have hardly struggled to attract a following, but there's always room for a fresh addition, especially if it brings quicker manual controls. Judging from the official teaser image above, we should expect just such a camera to arrive on January 28th, with a nice big ISO dial to complement the shutter and exposure compensation dials already found on the X-Pro1. If we're happy to indulge in a bit of gossip, courtesy of MirrorlessRumors, then it's also possible that the coming model will add something else the X-Pro1 was missing: a weather-sealed body. If that turns out to be true, then the Nikon Df could have some competition on its hands -- not over raw specs perhaps (because it somehow feels unlikely that Fujifilm has suddenly come up with a full-frame X-TRANS sensor that could match the Df's), but at least over size, weight and price.
Fujifilm's X100S camera now comes dressed in black
If you've been waiting for Fujifilm to release a darker-hued X100S to match the X100, wait no longer. The company has revealed the X100S Black, which does exactly what it says on the tin -- it's the same high-end, retro-styled camera as before, just in a sober (if rather eye-catching) new color. We're told that the blackened model will cost the same $1,299 as its silver counterpart, and it should hit shelves in February.
Fujifilm reveals the FinePix S1, a weather-ready 50x superzoom camera
Fujifilm is launching a quintet of point-and-shoots at CES, and one of them may be just the ticket for those who want both extreme zoom and weather resistance in a single camera. Its new FinePix S1 (above) packs a 50x (24-1,200mm) f/2.8-5.6 lens, yet is tough enough to survive the dust and rain; you can take that close-up concert photo even if you're stuck in lousy weather. The 16-megapixel shooter also offers WiFi image sharing, 10fps burst shooting, 1080p video, a 920,000-pixel electronic viewfinder and a tilting 3-inch LCD. The S1 will ship this March for $500. The remaining FinePix models all share that 16-megapixel resolution, but sacrifice the S1's do-it-all design in the name of price. The S9200 and WiFi-equipped S9400W both share the 50x lens and 10fps burst mode, but lose the weather-hardened design and step down to a 200,000-pixel viewfinder. The entry S8600 moves to "just" a 36x (25-900mm) lens, 720p video and AA battery power. Photographers who need a truly rugged camera can pick up the XP70, a waterproof compact cam with 5x (28-140mm) optics and 1080p movie making. All four of these designs also arrive in March, with prices starting at $230 for the S8600 and XP70; the S9200 costs $330, while the S9400W is slightly costlier at $350.
Fujifilm launches mid-tier X-E2 and XQ1 cameras with fast imaging and WiFi
The refined image processing from Fujifilm's X100s and X20 is at last reaching more affordable cameras: welcome the X-E2 and X-Q1. The X-E2 is a direct upgrade to the X-E1 that brings the company's 16.3-megapixel X-Trans CMOS II sensor and EXR Processor II to a mid-tier interchangeable lens design, giving welcome boosts to both the image quality and autofocusing speed. Software upgrades like split image display and 60 fps 1080p video come along with the new hardware, and there's both WiFi photo transfers as well as a much sharper one-megapixel, three-inch preview LCD. The X-E2 will ship in November for $1,000 in body-only form, or $1,400 when paired with an 18-55mm f/2.8-4 zoom lens. Photographers looking for a more pocketable shooter will want to look at the XQ1. The 12-megapixel compact cam is a spiritual successor to the XF1 that ditches the faux leather look in favor of a plainer, smaller body. It still has a non-removable 25-100mm f/1.8-4.9 lens, but it gets the X-E2's image processing upgrades and WiFi. An improved three-inch, 920,000-pixel LCD is present as well. The XQ1 should arrive later this month for $500.
Fujifilm's X-A1 mirrorless ILC arriving this month with 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, $600 price
Fujifilm is swelling its retro-tastic line of X-Series cameras with the X-A1, an entry level model for wannabe photojournalists worldwide. The shooter comes with a 16.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS, although be warned that this isn't the X-Trans sensor that made the X-Pro 1 and X-M1 so alluring -- that's been reserved for the high-end. Instead, you'll get wireless image transfer, a 3-inch 920k-dot tilting LCD and five film simulation modes. Video-wise, the unit will shoot 1080p clips at 30fps, capturing sound with its built-in stereo microphone. The retail package will come with a f/3.5-5.6 24-76mm equivalent kit lens with optical image stabilization, and will set you back $600 when it lands later this month.
Leaked Fujifilm X-A1 hints at a more mainstream mirrorless camera
Fujifilm looks set to extend its range of retro-styled mirrorless cameras, if we're to believe a leaked press release and publicity shots for an unannounced model, the X-A1. The camera, which first appeared on Czech camera retailer Fotoskoda (before it was quickly taken down), looks to become the fourth model in Fujifilm's interchangeable lens X-series, with a 16-megapixel APS-C EXR CMOS sensor. Like the $700 X-M1, Fujifilm's latest shooter is said to include a 3-inch tilting LCD, on-board Wi-Fi, and a "very fast" startup response time to get you snapping in less than 0.5 seconds. The absence of Fujifilm's magical X-TRANS sensor, which has been a big feature on the higher-end models, makes us think this may be a significantly cheaper model, possibly aimed at those looking for their first foray into the world of interchangeable lens compacts. There's no word on when the X-A1 might become available, but expect bold red and blue variants when it does, alongside the more traditional Fuji-ish black.
Fujifilm Instax mini 90 keeps instant film alive with retro look, new photo modes
Fujifilm is the torch bearer for retro camera design, but you wouldn't know it from looking at the boring, blob-like bodies of its recent instant film cameras. The company is aiming for more consistency with its new Instax mini 90: the shooter matches its older photo format with the vintage (and far more stylish) look we've seen in Fujfilm's X-series cameras. Not that the mini 90 is abandoning modern luxuries in the process, mind you. The new Instax more intelligently adjusts to shooting conditions, captures double exposures and brightens backgrounds in a party mode. Fujifilm ships the Instax mini 90 to analog photographers in Japan on September 20th, and should bring the camera to the US sometime next spring.
Fujifilm updating firmware on X-Pro 1, X-E1 cameras for better focus
Using the X-Pro 1 and X-E1 can sometimes be fiddly, but we can't hate on the pair too much as they're just so darn beautiful. Fortunately, Fujifilm has realized that looks aren't everything and will release a bumper firmware update that'll fix the pair's problems focusing in low-contrast. Users who own the XF18-55 F/2.8-4 R LM OIS lens will also find that optical image stabilization has been improved for better video. The update is gratis, as you would expect, and will land on July 23rd -- all you'll need to do is visit the website below and follow the instructions.
Fujifilm X-M1 mirrorless ILC ships in July with 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, $700 price tag
In January of 2012, Fujifilm first detailed its APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor -- the company promised superior image quality, thanks to a design that omitted an optical low-pass filter, and it delivered, in the form of the X-Pro1. That camera's relatively massive footprint and $1,700 price tag limited its appeal, however, though Fujifilm unveiled a smaller, and much more affordable variant, the X-E1, several months later. Now the saga continues. Today, the Japanese manufacturer is announcing an X-Trans-equipped model for the masses. The X-M1 includes the same 16.3-megapixel sensor as both the X-Pro1 and X-E1, yet it's housed in a lightweight body that's due to ship next month for just $700. The X-M1 tips the scale at 11.6 ounces, including the battery and memory card, but without a lens attached. As for optics, the ILC will be available as part of a kit with a brand new f/3.5-5.6 16-50mm (24-76mm equivalent) lens with optical image stabilization for $800, and will be compatible with the existing XF and XC lineup, including a variety of prime and zoom options. There's a 3-inch 920k-dot tilting LCD (but no EVF), a built-in flash, dedicated mode dial and on-board WiFi, letting you transfer images and movies to Android and iOS devices via a dedicated app. The EXR Processor II enables the camera to start up in 0.5 seconds, with a 0.05-second shutter lag and a maximum burst shot speed of 5.6 fps for 30 consecutive frames. The cam sports a fairly standard sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600. The X-M1 is set to hit stores in July with black and silver finishes for $700, or $800 with the lens. A brown version (body only) will also be available come August for $700.
Fujifilm's X-M1 interchangeable camera leaks out, doesn't mess with retro success
Fujifilm's about to extend its line of mirrorless shooters packing manual dials and vintage looks, if a leak from Digicame Info is to be believed. The Japanese rumor site has flaunted pictures of a purported X-M1 model, which bears a strong resemblance to X-E1 we saw last year, minus the electronic viewfinder and shutter-speed selector dial. In place of the latter is a general mode selector, along with a tiltable LCD screen and WiFi, judging by the pictures above and after the break. While all that points to a cheaper model aimed at more casual shooters, there's no word from the company about specs, pricing or a release date, obviously. As soon as we hear, of course, you'll be the first to know.
Fujifilm and Panasonic's organic CMOS image sensor boosts dynamic range and sensitivity
We've all been enjoying the benefits of AMOLED displays for several years now -- high contrast ratios, wide viewing angles and vivid colors -- so it was only a matter of time until organic films ended up in image sensors. Fujifilm and Panasonic have been working on organic CMOS image sensors and just showed the results of their collaboration at the 2013 Symposium on VLSI Technology in Kyoto. By replacing the traditional silicon photodiode with an organic photoelectric conversion layer, researchers have created image sensors with a dynamic range of 88dB (the industry's highest), a 1.2-fold increase in sensitivity (compared to traditional designs) and a 60-degree range of incident light (vs. 30-40 degrees, typically). What does this mean in practice? Less clipping in bright scenes, better low-light performance and richer colors and textures. The companies plan to promote these new organic CMOS image sensors for use in a wide range of imaging applications, including next generation cameras and phones. We can't wait!
IRL: Timbuk2's Commute Messenger and Fujifilm's EF-X20 flash
Welcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment. When he's not copy editing Engadget, Philip Palermo likes to write about his gadget collection. And that gadget collection includes an impressive pile of camera gear (like this and this and this). Now he's back, taking Fujifilm's EF-X20 flash for a spin alongside his X-E1. Meanwhile, Dan's found a bag spacious and compartmentalized enough to fit several days of clothing and all his trade show gear. Not an easy feat, folks.
Fujifilm announces FinePix XP200 ruggedized camera, S8400W superzoom
Ready to hear about some mid-range Fujifilm point-and-shoots? Let's do this. The FinePix XP200 looks like the more exciting model of the bunch, so we'll start there. Available with red, purple, yellow, green, blue and orange glossy finishes, this ruggedized camera packs a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor with image stabilization, a 28-140mm lens, 3-inch, 920k-dot LCD, a 10-frames-per-second continuous shooting mode, 1080/60i video and built-in WiFi for pushing pics to a companion app. It's a ruggedized cam, so that means it's waterproof to 50 feet, freezeproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10°C) and shockproof to 6.6-foot drops. The other flavor is a superzoom model, or a "bridge camera," as manufacturers are calling them these days. The lens is the focus here, and this one's got a 24-1,056mm, 44x optic with a maximum aperture range of f/2.9 to f/6.5. There's also optical image stabilization and a Super Macro mode that lets you shoot subjects that are just 0.39 inch from the lens. There's a 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, sensitivity through ISO 12,800, 1080/60i video capture, a 10 fps continuous shooting mode and WiFi. You can preview images on the 3-inch, 460k-dot LCD or the 201k-dot electronic viewfinder. This model, the FinePix S8400W, comes in black and ships in May for $350. The XP200 will also ship in May, priced at $300. Read up on both in the PR after the break.
IRL: Mailbox, Behringer iNuke Boom Junior and the Fujifilm X-E1
Welcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment. You may have heard that a little app called Mailbox launched a few days ago. You may have also heard it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. As it turns out, Darren hates it. Fortunately, it's not all doom and gloom this week: Jason's impressed with the miniaturized iNuke Boom Junior speaker, and Philip is just happy to answer questions about his new camera.
Fujifilm's flexible Beat speaker diaphragm lets us roll up the rhythm
While there's been no shortage of rollable displays, rollable speakers are rare -- the softness needed for a bendy design is the very thing that would usually neuter the sound. Fujifilm's new Beat diaphragm manages to reconcile those seemingly conflicting requirements. The surface depends on a polymer that stays soft when the surface is being curled or folded, but hardens when subjected to the 20Hz to 20kHz audio range we'd expect from a speaker. Piezoelectric ceramics, in turn, provide the sound itself. The Beat system doesn't have any known customers, but Fujifilm has already shown some creative possibilities such as a folding fan speaker or the portable, retractable unit shown above. If we ever see the day when we tuck a set of speakers into our pockets as neatly as we do our phones, we'll know who to thank.
Fujifilm launches alphabet soup of point-and-shoot, compact and bridge cameras
Where to start? Fujifilm has announced 9 new FinePix camera models by our counting, including six bridge models (the S6800 and S4800 series), the JX680 point-and-shoot, the F900EXR compact with WiFi and .05-second autofocus, and more basic F850EXR compact. The S6800, S6700 and S6600 are 16-megapixel bridge shooters with 30x, 28x and 26x zooms respectively, boasting OIS sensor stabilization, 12,800 max ISO, 1.0 second startup, 0.3 second autofocus, 10fps high-speed shooting at full resolution (max 10 frames) and 1080i 60fps HD video, with prices topping out at $250. The 16-megapixel FinePix S4800, S4700 and S4600 have the same 30x, 28x and 26x zoom levels and sensor shift image stabilization along with auto scene recognition, a 1.3 second startup time, 0.3 second autofocus, 720P, 30 fps video with mini-HDMI output and a max price of $230. For lovers of smaller form factors, the $100 JX680 point-and-shoot has a 16-megapixel CCD, 5x Fujinon optical zoom, "creative" filters like soft focus, a 3.0-inch, 230k-dot LCD screen, max 3200 ISO and 720P video with editing. In compact land, the $300 FinePix F850EXR sports a 20x optical zoom, CMOS-shift image stabilization, a 16-megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor, 3.0-inch 920k-dot LCD, 9 fps continuous shooting (max 5 frames), 1.1 second startup time, Eye-Fi card compatibility and 1080P 60fps video. Finally, the $400 FinePix F900EXR matches all those specs while adding WiFi image transfer capability, faster 11 fps continuous shooting (5 frames max) and claimed "world's fastest" 0.05 second autofocus speed. Got all that? All the new models will arrive in March 2013, so feel free to check the PR and video after the break if you want more. We're going to take a nap.
Fujifilm's bridge cams dominate CES lineup, we check out the FinePix SL1000, S8300 and HS50EXR
What makes a bridge cam? You can use the lens length as a general rule of thumb -- if it's long enough to form a bridge, that model qualifies (full disclosure: we made that bit up, but perhaps it'll stick). Fujifilm's got a few such devices on the CES shelf, and we've dropped by to check them out. At the high end, you'll find the FinePix HS50EXR, which includes a brand new 16-megapixel 1/2-inch EXR CMOS II sensor with phase-detection focusing and an autofocus speed of 0.05 second, along with a 42x (24-1000mm) f/2.8-5.6 manual zoom lens. Next up, we have the SL1000, with its 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor and 50x (24-1200mm) f/2.9-5.6 optical zoom lens, followed by the S8300, with a 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor and 42x (24-1008mm) f/2.9-6.5 lens. All three are expected to ship in March, with the HS50EXR priced at $550, the SL1000 at $400 and the S8300 running you $310. You can find a few more details (along with a collection of similar models) in our announcement post, but what you're likely really after is a gallery of hands-on shots -- that's waiting just below.%Gallery-175350%
Fujifilm updates its ruggedized lineup with FinePix XP60, we go hands-on
We all love adventure-proof cams, and this week Fujifilm has a new model to toss into the market. The company's updated ruggedized point-and-shoot sports a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and a 5x, 28-140mm optical zoom lens. There's a 10 fps continuous shooting mode at full resolution (10 frames max) that you can activate with a dedicated Burst Mode button on the top of the camera. The XP60 can capture 60 fps HD video at 1080i, or 240 fps clips at a lower resolution. It's waterproof to 20 feet, shockproof to 5 feet and freeze-proof to 14-degrees Fahrenheit (thanks to its secure housing, the camera is dust-proof as well). Speaking of that protective shell, Fujifilm has updated the door lock with a new even more secure push-and-turn mechanism, to help keep out water for those pool and ocean shots. We won't be taking this thing to the "beach" during our current trip to Vegas, but we did have a chance to add our fingerprints to that colorful glossy finish. As you might expect, the cameras were a bit heftier than your average point-and-shoot -- a ruggedized design requires some tougher materials, which do add to the weight. The new battery door was easy to pop open, but it still felt secure -- you'll obviously need to keep that tightly sealed when using the XP60 below the surface. We found the design to be attractive, and while the colors may be a bit flashy, the blue and red models should be subtle enough for many casual shooters. You should be able to make your pick come March for $200, but we're ready to hook you up with some close-up shots right now, all of which you'll find in the gallery just below.%Gallery-175351%
Fujifilm launches seven FinePix models at CES: bridge cams to rugged shooters
Fujifilm's raft of FinePix cams at CES are headlined by the HS50EXR, which aims to please those who love point and shoots, but aren't quite ready to make the pricey leap to a full-blown DSLR. The shooter captures photos at 16 megapixels, records 1080p video at 60fps and features a 3-inch tilting LCD screen. Loaded with a manual zoom lens and a 42x focal length range, the cam will arrive in March with a $550 price tag. With the device, Fujifilm is laying claim to the world's fastest autofocus in the camera's class at 0.5 seconds. For those who pinch their pennies a little harder, the firm is releasing the HS35EXR for $400, which drops 1080p recording to 30fps and optical zoom to 30x. The 3-inch tilting screen theme continues with the FinePix SL1000, which carries a 16 megapixel sensor and a lens with 50x optical zoom. As for video, the shooter records 1080i footage at 60fps. March will see the camera arrive with an asking price of $400. Fujifilm's S8300 joins the photo fray with a fixed 3-inch screen, 42x zoom, 1080i video capture at 60fps and will make its way to stores in March for $310. The S8200 packs the same video recoding features and display, but packs glass with 40x optical zoom and rings up at $300. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
Fujfilm announces pricing and availability for X100s and X20 (update: hands-on!)
At Fujifilm's press conference today, the company announced that both the X100s and X20 will hit stores at the end of March, with the X100s running you $1,300 and the X20 shipping for less than half, at roughly 600 bucks. A new 55-200mm lens will ship in April, with more options planned for later this year. We had a chance to check out both models, and while the X20 appears to be a perfectly capable shooter, the X100s is definitely the premium variant here. The camera has a very solid feel and quite an elegant retro design, as you might expect based on its predecessor. The digital split image display is mighty nifty as well, as we first saw just this afternoon. Flip through our gallery below for a closer look at both cameras, then jump past the break for a hands-on demo of the X100s from Fujifilm.%Gallery-175353% Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
