Sensor resolution continues to be the primary specification that consumers rely on to compare the performance and quality of digital cameras. “Even though resolution does not always equate to image quality, it is an easy metric for consumers to compare, and so the pixel race will continue,” said Michelle Slaughter, Director of Digital Photography Trends at InfoTrends/CAP Ventures.  This year manufacturers introduced several 7 and 8 megapixel models, and by 2009, these resolution segments are expected to be mainstream segments for point & shoot cameras.

As resolution increases, manufacturers must also advance image processing speed to handle the larger files. “Consumers recognize the need for speed when they complain about shutter lag and click-to-click speed,” says Slaughter. “As a result, manufacturers are trying to raise brand awareness of their image processors, and consumers may eventually learn that image processors are also a key component influencing their satisfaction.”

The top five worldwide market leaders in 2004 are, in rank order, Canon, Sony, Olympus, Kodak and Fuji. These companies are expected to remain in the top five in 2005, though their rank within the top five may change.

InfoTrends/CAP Ventures’ report entitled 2004 Worldwide Consumer Digital Camera Forecast Summary is available immediately. It provides market forecast summaries for the United States, Europe, Japan, Asia, and Rest of World. It sizes the consumer digital camera market, examines key vendors, trends and pixel segments, and projects unit shipments, revenues, and price declines through 2009 by region. InfoTrends/CAP Ventures’ in-depth regional forecast reports for the United States and Europe are also available.

InfoTrends/CAP Ventures is the leading worldwide market research and strategic consulting firm for the digital imaging and document solutions industries. We provide research, analysis, forecasts, and advice to help clients understand market trends, identify opportunities, and develop strategies to grow their businesses. Additional information about InfoTrends/CAP Ventures is available on the Web at www.infotrends-rgi.com.

CONTACT: Matt O'Keefe, InfoTrends tel. 781-616-2100, fax 781-616-2121, 97 Libbey Industrial Parkway, Weymouth, MA 02189, mokeefe@infotrends-rgi.com.