Fuji has updated its budget-minded J-series ultracompacts today with the announcement of the FinePix J150w.

Fujifilm FinePix J150w

Constructed from the same high-quality, high-style materials that have consistently characterized the J-series cameras, the J150w features brushed metal construction, a huge 3.0-inch LCD, and Fujinon optics. In the case of the J150w, the lens used covers an impressive 5x range, with 28mm wide-angle coverage at the wide end.

Although there's no optical/mechanical image stabilization, the 10.0 megapixel J150w allows high-sensitivity, full-resolution shooting at up to ISO 1600.

The use of a lithium-ion rechargeable power cell allows the J150w to be slimly constructed as well, measuring just under an inch thick at its widest.

Thirteen scene presets provide appropriate options for a wide range of shooting situations. Fuji's latest face detection technology is also included, providing recognition of up to six faces and automatic red-eye removal in flash shots.

It's hard not to be impressed by the entry-level J150w's specs sheet, especially in light of its $199.95 suggested retail price. Look for the new junior FinePix to make its way to stores in September.

Fujifilm FinePix J150w Specifications:

Sensor 10.0 megapixel, 1/2.5" CCD
Zoom 5x (28-140mm) Fujinon zoom, f/3.3-5.1
LCD/Viewfinder 3.0", 230K-dot TFT LCD
Sensitivity ISO 64-3200 (ISO 3200 at lower resolution)
Shutter Speed 8-1/2000 seconds
Shooting Modes Auto, Picture Stabilization, Red-Eye Reduction, Digital Zoom, Scene, Movie
Scene Presets Landscape, Sport, Night, Natural Light, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, Sunset, Baby, Flower, Party, Museum, Text, Manual
White Balance Settings Auto, Fine, Shade, Fluorescent 1, Fluorescent 2, Fluorescent 3, Incandescent
Metering Modes Multi
Focus Modes Center AF, Macro
Drive Modes Normal, Top 3 Continuous
Flash Modes Auto, Forced On, Slow Synchro, Forced Off, Red-Eye Reduction
Self Timer Settings
 10 seconds, 2 seconds, Off
Memory Formats SD, SDHC
Internal Memory
 24 MB
File Formats JPEG, AVI
Max. Image Size 3648x2736
Max. Video Size
 640x480, 30 fps
Zoom During Video No
Battery Rechargeable lithium-ion
Connections USB 2.0, AV output, DC input
Additional Features Picture Stabilization