Pre-Photokina 2008: Next up from Olympus today is the Mju 1040 ultra-compact digital camera, sporting a 2.7”LCD and 3x (38-114mm equiv) zoom lens. The 10 MP super slim camera is 16.5 mm wide and includes features such as Advanced Face Detection, Shadow Adjustment and Intelligent Auto Mode. Looking at the styling it would appear that Olympus is going after the Sony Cyber-Shot market with this one...

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Press Release:

Precision optics in an all-new super-slim metal body
The Olympus µ [mju:] 1040: Brilliant results in a miniature body

Hamburg, 25 August 2008 – Combining powerful features in a completely redesigned super-slim metal body, the Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 is an extremely elegant performer. Measuring in at a depth of just 16.5mm at its thin end, it combines a precision 3x zoom (38-114mm*) with cutting-edge features such as Advanced Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology. Furthermore, the brand new Intelligent Auto mode can detect the five most commonly-used scenes and then automatically adjust camera settings including focus and exposure. A large (6.9cm/2.7”) HyperCrystal LCD helps users frame and review their shots. In addition to the camera’s internal memory, photos can be stored on xD-Picture Card or – thanks to a bundled attachment – on microSD Card. The 10 Megapixel µ [mju:] 1040 will hit stores from September 2008 at an RRP of £149.99.

Style meets innovation
The Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 represents a new generation of style. Its sleek, thin metal body really makes a statement and comes in a dazzling array of colours. These include Starry Silver, Midnight Black, Magma Red and Melon Yellow, with a sliding lens cover that enhances the µ [mju:] 1040’s streamlined appearance. The camera’s interface has also been changed as now you can access most functions through a flat control panel. This ensures easy navigation while simultaneously getting the hearts of minimal design enthusiasts racing.

High-tech features
The innovations incorporated in the Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 make capturing picture-perfect images a breeze with the brand new Intelligent Auto mode. This feature automatically detects 5 different popular photographic scenes and adjusts settings, focus and exposure automatically.

Advanced Face Detection Technology lets up to 16 faces be recognised by the camera. Matched with Shadow Adjustment Technology, which cleverly optimises shadowy areas in picture, you can be sure that your human subjects are always caught in the right light.

Thanks to Digital Image Stabilisation, which boosts ISO values, crisp and sharp photos are assured – even in low-light situations. Meanwhile, the powerful TruePic III image processor enhances colour reproduction and image quality as well as boosting speed.

Take charge
With the Olympus µ [mju:] 1040, you are in control. Perfect Shot Preview lets adjustments to your photo be shown on the LCD in real time. This makes it easy to choose the right settings to achieve the best effects. In cases where further assistance might be required, the in-camera help guide puts solutions at your fingertips. Users also have a choice of up to 39 languages for the camera menu. In addition to internal memory, pictures can be stored to xD Picture Card, or – thanks to a bundled attachment – to microSD Card. And to ensure easy handling of photos on a computer, the multifaceted Olympus Master software is also included.

Available in Starry Silver, Midnight Black, Magma Red and Melon Yellow, the sleek and ultra-slim µ [mju:] 1040 becomes available in September 2008 for £149.99.

The Olympus µ [mju:] 1040 – main features:

• Miniature 3x optical zoom (38-114mm*) in super slim metal body (just 16.5mm at its thin end) to capture everything from great scenes to exciting close-ups
• 10 Megapixels to make poster-size prints
• The easy way to perfect images - Intelligent Auto mode detects the five most commonly used scenes and adjusts settings, focus and exposure automatically
• Advanced Face Detection of up to 16 persons for perfectly focused and exposed faces, plus correct exposure of other image areas
• 6.9cm/2.7" HyperCrystal LCD for excellent previews even in brilliant sunlight
• Digital Image Stabilisation for less blur even in low light
• TruePic III image processor for faster image handling and higher image quality
• Liven up your memories with movie recording with sound (up to VGA resolution at 30 fps)
• xD-Picture Card and microSD Card compatible

Additional images

Olympus Mju 1040 specifications