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August 22, 2005 – Adding to their Digital ELPH line of point-an-shoot cameras, Canon announced the release of the PowerShot SD550 (spec sheet) and PowerShot SD450 (spec sheet) today. Serving as step-up models to the successful PowerShot SD500 and PowerShot SD400, the new cameras will contain many of the same features, while applying a larger 2.5" LCD screen. The 7.1 megapixel PowerShot SD550 is expected to ship at the end of August, retailing for $499, while the 5 megapixel PowerShot SD450 is expected shortly after, around mid-September for $399. The existing PowerShot SD500 and SD400 will remain on the market, with a price reduction of $50.
The new SD models appeal to users "who like a small, stylish camera that produces outstanding picture quality; one that’s designed for point-and-shoot operation," said Chuck Westfall, Director of Media and Customer relations for the Camera Marketing Group at Canon U.S.A.
The larger 2.5-inch LCD screen makes the new cameras slightly heavier than the models they are based on, but their frame dimensions remain nearly identical, at 3.39 x 2.11 x 0.85 inches for the SD450 and 3.52 x 2.24 x 1.08 inches for the SD550. Without a battery, the PowerShot SD450 weighs 4.94 ounces, while the PowerShot SD550 comes in at 6 ounces.
Along with its midlevel offerings, Canon also introduced a style-conscious replacement for the SD20 today. The new five megapixel SD30, available in four new colors, adds a 2.4x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 38-90mm) over the fixed lens of its predecessor.
The PowerShot SD30 will also be the first PowerShot model to ship with a docking station since the original PowerShot 600. The docking station will recharge the battery, while providing a video out and USB port to link to computers and printers. Another surprising inclusion is a wireless remote, enabling users to control playback and direct print options.
The PowerShot SD30 will be available in early September, at an estimated retail price of $399.