Canon Expo 2010 Paris: Concepts and Exhibits

We had the opportunity to test the multi-purpose camera which supports both video and still image capture, along with Ultra-HD 4K resolution video (4096x3072-pixel recording format, to be precise). Although presented as a concept product, the camera was envisioned for professional use and features a 2/3-inch CMOS sensor that enables video shooting at high frame rates in excess of 60 frames per second.

It also includes a 24-480mm zoom lens (with 20x optical zoom) and a maximum aperture range of f/1.8-3.8.

This device also featured a 3.5-inch LCD screen, but did not seem the least bit compact on a tripod. Still, Canon representatives emphasized that once it reaches production, it will be one of the lightest products of its kind. The camera's exterior was crafted from bio-based plastic, a plant-derived compound that replaces certain petroleum-based plastic.

We tried out the camera briefly and it seems exceptionally fast, while photo and video quality is above average, compared to current cameras and video cameras. The colors were interpreted with precision and vivacity, even when we moved away from a makeshift studio with professional lighting to the EXPO site with evidently poorer lighting. The final impression we got is that this is a device which will not have to suffer many upgrades prior to its commercial launch.

Furthermore, we witnessed Canon's vision of interactive mixed reality, an idea based on using consumer interest for augmented reality solutions. By combining the real and virtual worlds in real-time, Canon wants to create a visual experience for its users in which they can not only see such combined space, but also create it themselves. The concept system which they have envisioned for this purpose uses a head-mounted display with built-in cameras and a video-processing computer in order to blend the real and virtual realities. It sounds complicated, but is quite fun in reality.

Finally, 8 and 4 megapixel screens were especially impressive. Canon is not famous for being a display manufacturer - it simply does not produce TV sets or mass market screens - but the company does have a good reputation when it comes to professional medical video and photo equipment.

X-ray devices, 3D ultrasound and similar diagnostic appliances acquire efficiency precisely due to exceptionally high resolution. However, Canon has also envisioned these displays for usage in the world of industrial design, engineering and professional video and photo production.