Canon’s Plans for New Cameras that Approach SLR Image Quality

In a recent earnings call, Canon mentioned an upcoming camera announcement that will approach SLR image quality.  Smells like a true mirrorless camera may be in the works for Canon – unlike the big-sensored G1 X.

Next, I will discuss our full year projection for the camera segment. We expect a strong global demand for SLR cameras to continue driven by such factors as an expanding user base and replacement demand.

Regarding our product portfolio, Canon offers a broad lineup of SLR cameras to meet the wide range of market need. This year, we are updating our lineup with a particular focus on higher-end segment. We have already announced new advanced amateur and professional level cameras. We will use our rich lineup to expand sales 27% to 9.2 million unit. At the same time, we will also work to increase sales of interchangeable lenses. As for compact cameras, we are aiming to boost sales by 17% to 22 million units.

To achieve this, we will further differentiate and enhance our lineup by launching new cameras offering the image qualities that approaches SLR cameras; furthering the improvement in design and qualities, and by incorporating features such as network, connectivity capabilities.

In addition to the launch of differentiated new products, this high growth rate also reflects last year’s supply constraint due to the earthquakes and Thai flood. As for our cinema use systems, which targets motion pictures on television production industry, we also expand sales by enhancing our product lineup. In total, we expect net sales for the camera segment to increase 23.1%.

[via Seeking Alpha & Canon Rumors]