IFA 2001: Fujifilm continue their assault on the entry level, low cost digital camera markets with the new Finepix A101, A201 and 2600Z. The A101 ($179) and A102 ($249) share the same body design, both have a fixed focal length lens and an extremely basic layout, the A101 has a 1.3 megapixel CCD and the A201 has a 2.0 megapixel CCD. The 2600Z ($299) has a 3x optical zoom lens which is shielded behind a sliding cover (which also acts as a power switch), it has a 2.0 megapixel CCD and a slightly more rectangular design than the A101 / A201.

Fujifilm FinePix A101 / A201

Press release:

FUJIFILM MAKES QUALITY DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY FUN AND EASY WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF THE PRICE-FRIENDLY FINEPIX A-SERIES CAMERAS

ELMSFORD, NY, August 23, 2001 – For capturing your baby's homecoming, the championship soccer game or holiday get-togethers, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. introduces the FinePix A101 and FinePix A201 digital cameras – the first in Fujifilm’s new A-Series of FinePix digital cameras. The ultimate in simplicity, these pocketable cameras, priced at $179 and $249, respectively, are capable of producing bright colors, making them perfect for the first-time digital photographer.

Picture quality and ease of use make the FinePix A-Series the cameras of choice for casual photographers. Both the FinePix A101 and FinePix A201 feature Fujifilm’s Advanced Color Technology for deep, rich colors and a sharp lens for clear pictures. Photo transfer from the cameras to a computer is as simple as plug-and-play and the included, easy-to-install FinePixViewer software program makes viewing and e-mailing pictures a snap. If prints are desired, the FinePix A101 can produce album-quality, 4x6-inch prints while 4x6, 5x7 and 8x10-inch prints can be had with the FinePix A201. Housed in sleek, ultra-compact body designs -- the end result of a 30% reduction in power consumption when compared to previous FinePix entry-level models -- the FinePix A101 and FinePix A201 also include such fun features as PC-cam and video recording capabilities.

"The FinePix A-Series gives more consumers the opportunity to experience and get into the fun of digital photography," said Darin Pepple, Brand Manager, Consumer Digital Products, Consumer Markets Division, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. "If a picture-taker has used a film-based, point-and-shoot camera in recent years, he or she will quickly master a Fujifilm A-Series camera. Plus, they will have the option of enjoying the many benefits of digital photography, such as immediate picture review, quick and easy camera to-computer image transfer, at-home or professional printing and e-mail sharing with friends and family."

The ultra compact bodies of the FinePix A101 and FinePix A201 (3.9" W x 2.5" H x 1.6" D) weigh a mere 5.1 oz, without batteries. Two, included AA Alkaline batteries power the cameras, which come with an 8MB and 16MB SmartMedia™ card, respectively, a hand strap, USB cable, DP Editor Software and Arcsoft VideoImpression™. The FinePix A101 and FinePix A201 will be available for purchase in late August and September 2001, respectively.

Fujifilm FinePix 2600 Zoom

Press release:

FUJIFILM’S NEW FINEPIX 2600 ZOOM COMBINES PERFORMANCE, STYLE AND EASE-OF-USE

ELMSFORD, NY, August 23, 2001 – Today, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. brings consumers a digital camera that doesn’t forsake picture performance in its desire to prove itself as a user-friendly camera with trend-setting good looks.

Compact yet durable, the new FinePix 2600 Zoom is the latest in Fujifilm’s mid-range series of digital cameras. Ideal for the digital photographer who wants more than just the basics, the FinePix 2600 Zoom fits into most purses and jacket pockets so consumers can freeze moments in digital quality wherever they may go. Equipped with Fujifilm’s Advanced Color Technology, the FinePix 2600 Zoom delivers world-renowned Fujifilm color to 4x6, 5x7 and 8x10-inch prints. The camera’s all glass, 3x optical zoom lens brings picture-takers directly to the action, and its fully automatic operational controls leave the photographer to do nothing but press the shutter button and enjoy the clear, sharp and colorful photos it produces. Camera-to-computer picture transfers occur in a flash with the FinePix 2600 Zoom’s USB connectivity and picture viewing is a pleasure with Fujifilm’s supplied FinePixViewer software. And if that’s not enough, FinePix 2600 Zoom owners can produce mini-home movies with the camera’s video capabilities.

“Consumers have been searching for an affordable, yet high-quality digital camera that doesn’t complicate picture-taking,” said Darin Pepple, Brand Manager, Consumer Digital Products, Consumer Markets Division, Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. "With the FinePix 2600 Zoom, consumers can now have great digital images at a price that won’t break the bank."

The FinePix 2600 Zoom measures a compact 3.9" W x 2.6" H x 2.1" D and weighs only 7 ounces, without batteries. Bundled accessories include a 16MB SmartMedia™ storage card, two AA NiMH batteries, battery charger, hand strap and USB cables. In addition to Fujifilm’s FinePixViewer, other bundled software includes Fujifilm’s DP Editor and Arcsoft VideoImpression™. Available in September 2001, the FinePix 2600 Zoom will carry a price of $249.*

* Specifications on Fujifilm's website say list price of $299.. I suspect the press release is wrong.