Kodak launches affordable 10x ultrazoom with EasyShare Z915

[David Rasnake]

Kodak has significantly restyled its Z series of ultrazooms with the launch of the Kodak EasyShare Z915.

Announced in conjunction with PMA 2009, the Z915 seems to provide some impressive technologies at a very attractive price point.

Restyled Z series
This affordable 10 megapixel, 10x zoom camera from Kodak is a highly stylized take on previous Kodak ultrazooms, with a sleek two-tone body (available in four different color combos). A redesigned back panel consolidates all controls to the right-hand side of the Z915's 2.5 inch LCD, and provides several dedicated buttons on the top deck next to the zoom control/shutter release as well.

As noted, the Z915's Kodak Retinar zoom covers a 10x range and features optical image stabilization.

Basic shooting modes on the Z915 appear to include the standard P/A/S/M manual exposure control options, as well as Kodak's integrated Smart Capture system. Kodak's take on automatic scene detection, Smart Capture also automatically applies the manufacturer's Perfect Touch processing technology to provide better highlight/shadow balance.

As with previous Kodak EasyShare models, the Z915 relies on AA battery power and SD/SDHC memory, making it easy to find fresh power or pull photos from the camera from just about anywhere.

Pricing and availability
We have limited specs on the Z915 to this point, but we'll see if we can find out more once the show floor opens in a few hours. What we do know, however, is that the Z915 will hit retailers in April, with an impressive suggested price of only $199.95.

[leaftye]

It looks like Kodak is taking a direct shot at Canon's SX110is. I hope it's a worthy competitor.