Eight New Digital Cameras from GE

General Imaging, a small manufacturer founded by the former president of camera-maker Olympus, is a subsidiary of General Electric and will produce eight new digital camera models to compete in an already crowded marketplace. 

The eight models span the entire range of features needed to appeal to amateur and professional photographer alike.  All of the new cameras feature electrical image stabilization, red-eye removal, and a minimum ISO-1600 sensitivity for shooting in low-light conditions.

The entry-level A-series models offer 7+ megapixels, 3X optical zoom, 2.5-inch displays, and run on two AA batteries.

The E-series cameras (aimed at “serious amateur” photographers) offer at least 2.7-inch LCDs, operate on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, have a 5X optical zoom lens, and at least 8-megapixels.  Most of the E-series have a larger 3-inch display, and the top models in this range (the E1040 and E1240) offer 10- and 12-megapixel quality.

Developed for the professional, the X1 is an 8-megapixel model and is the only model in the line to provide optical image stabilization.  The X1 only has a 2.5-inch display, but comes with 12X optical zoom, and face-detection technology.

Better known for refrigerators and washing machines, GE is facing an uphill battle to wrestle market share away from the industry leaders Kodak, Nikon, and Canon - in a market that is predicted to be leveling off after years of fantastic growth.  Even so, at roughly $18 Billion per year - there should be enough to go around.