The MOTOZINE ZN5, combine Motorola wireless communication technology with Kodak’s imaging technology to produce a device with a 5 MP integrated camera and features like autofocus, Xenon flash, optimized settings for low-light photography, and the ability to accommodate up to 4 GB of external memory.

“Kodak Imaging Technology combines Kodak’s unparalleled experience in imaging science with easy connectivity to the company’s vast portfolio of products and services,” said John Blake, General Manager, Digital Capture and Imaging Devices Group, Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “We have redefined the quality, convenience and connectivity of mobile imaging devices. We have worked closely with Motorola to create a device that not only delivers Kodak-quality pictures, but allows consumers to explore a wide range of options for sharing their photos with friends and family around the world.”

The camera phone will include various photo capture modes, like multi-shot and panorama; and the ability to automatically upload images to an online Kodak Gallery via a dedicated Gallery Link. Using ShoZu, customers can also upload images to a number of popular social networking Websites. With Bluetooth technology, users can also wirelessly transfer photos; or print them via compatible Kodak all-in-one printers and picture kiosks. The ZN5 will ship with Kodak EasyShare software for easily managing and editing captured images.

In addition to the photo features, the ZN5 boasts Motorola’s patented CrystalTalk technology to enhance the caller’s voice; and GSM and WLAN compatibility for robust connectivity on-the-go.

While its specific availability in the Canadian market has not yet been announced, the ZN5 will be available in China this month, and is expected to roll out “around the globe” throughout the remainder of the year.

While Sony Ericsson is arguably the only company to have successfully created camera phones that rival entry-level point-and-shoot digital cameras with its mobile phone/Cyber-shot camera hybrid devices, the Motozine ZN5 could give the company a serious run for its money with the involvement of Kodak technology. From Kodak’s end, the entrance into this ever-growing market is a smart-move. Camera phones are becoming increasingly popular, if only as secondary devices to dedicated point-and-shoot digital cameras. As they become more and more advanced, however, these devices could very well take a considerable chunk out of the entry-level digital camera market.

The Kodak EasyShare Z812 has 8.1-megapixel ultra-zoom can capture high definition stills and video. The EasyShare Z812 IS is equipped with a 12x optically stabilized lens and face detection.

In the front view, Kodak EasyShare Z812 IS has lens and hand grip take up most of the space. The outer rim of the 12x optical zoom lens is inscribed with text; “Schneider-Kreuznach” on top and “Variogon 36mm-432mm (Equivalent) AF 12x Optical Zoom,” on the bottom. There is a black rubber ring embedded around the lens to comfortably rest fingers while shooting.

On the top left of this side is a multi-function light for low-light assist, self-timer, and video. Just below the assist lamp is a grouping of five microphone holes, with a matching batch on the other side of the lens. Just above the lens is a Kodak logo on the pop-up flash, which can be manually or automatically opened. Read the rest of this entry »