Although we did cover this camera back at the beginning of June when it was announced in Japan it's worthwhile following the US announcement for confirmation of specifications and price. Fujifilm Finepix 40i digital camera + MP3 player, fixed 36 mm equiv. lens, 2.4 megapixel SuperCCD (producing up to 2400 x 1800), ISO 200 equiv., also 320 x 240 Motion JPEG AVI with audio up to 80 seconds. Available in the US late August 2000, expected retail price of $699.

Fujifilm FinePix 40i specifications

Fujifilm US press release:

Fujifilm's FinePix 40i Digital Camera Integrates Three of Today's Hottest Digital Technologies

High-Resolution Digital Imaging, MP3 Audio and Digital Video in One, Pocketable Package

ELMSFORD, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 18, 2000--Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. has announced that the Fujifilm FinePix 40i Digital Camera, an ultra-compact portable device that combines three of today's most popular mobile platforms -- digital imaging, MP3 audio and digital video -- into one product, will be available to the U.S. market late August 2000 at an estimated street price of $699. Fujifilm is the first manufacturer to pair MP3 audio technology with a high-resolution digital camera.

Featuring the same Super CCD image sensor found in Fujifilm's popular FinePix 4700 ZOOM digital camera, the super-small (3.4" W x 2.8'' H x 1.1" D) FinePix 40i captures sharp and colorful pictures. It has an equivalent ISO sensitivity of 200, built-in flash, five programmed exposure modes, a USB port for the quick and easy transfer of images and a generously sized 1.8-inch LCD, considering the size of the camera. Compatible with wafer-thin SmartMedia(TM) cards, the removable storage media of choice for many digital camera and portable MP3 player users, the FinePix 40i also can capture 80 seconds of continuous AVI video with sound.

Just like other MP3 audio players, users can download music to the FinePix 40i via its USB port and playback near CD-quality music. All MP3 controls (play/stop, forward/back, volume) are on a tethered remote into which the FinePix 40i's provided headphones - or the user's own -- can be inserted for private listening. As an added bonus, the remote control can be used with the camera to take and then view captured pictures, along with controlling the camera's digital zoom.

"With the FinePix 40i, we've created a digital camera that not only produces great pictures, but also offers consumers the benefits of the MP3 audio format,'' said Darin Pepple, Product Manager, Consumer Digital Products, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. The FinePix 40i is a digital convergence product in the truest sense of the term, further exemplifying Fujifilm's commitment to digital as well as its overall technology prowess."

In addition to Fujifilm's traditional silver, magnesium alloy housing, a limited supply of metallic blue FinePix 40i digital cameras also will be available to consumers.

Bundled along with the camera will be two, high-powered, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, a charger, Adobe ActiveShare® photo editing software and RealJukebox® digital audio software. For more information on the FinePix 40i and other Fujifilm digital imaging products, please visit the company's Web site at www.fujifilm.com or call at 1-800-800-FUJI.