Canon Expands Line of Binoculars With Introduction of 15x50IS and 18x50IS Image Stabilizer Models.

Business & Technology Editors

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 17, 2000

--New Models Offer Exclusive Features--

--Represents Canon Know How in Optical and Imaging Technology--

Canon U.S.A. Inc., continues to expand its line of innovative and compact binoculars with the introduction of the 15x50IS All Weather and 18x50IS All Weather Image Stabilizer models. With the introduction of these new binoculars, Canon now offers five different Image Stabilizer models, extending the company's complete line of compact and ultra-compact binoculars to eleven.

"Canon's expertise in the area of optical technology has allowed us to incorporate a feature that permits consumers and professionals to truly benefit from powerful binoculars where `image shake' is most evident," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, vice president and general manager of Canon's Consumer Products Division. "Canon now offers the world's highest magnification binoculars (18x) with Image Stabilizer technology and the new models' objective lens diameter of 50 provides users with a better, clearer and brighter image. The complete line is representative of Canon's Know How and leadership in the areas of optical and imaging technology."

In addition to improving the resolving power of the binoculars with Canon's exclusive and highly effective image stabilizer with vari-angle prism, the new models are designed to be weatherproof, making them ideal for all outdoor and marine activities including, birding, hunting, hiking, boating, astronomy and sports. The new models also feature a UD (Ultra-low Dispersion) glass element that effectively corrects chromatic aberrations while attaining excellent delineation.

Canon engineers achieved the high magnification of 15x/18x, as well as the compact optical system length by incorporating four elements in three groups and strategically positioning a concave lens within the objective lens section. The large-diameter 50mm objective lens also provides users with a bright field-of-view. A rubber ring on the end of the objective lens, along with the body's rubber "skin" are designed to cushion the binoculars from sudden impact, while providing users with a firm grip and less eye strain.

Using the image stabilizer feature for extended periods of time has been made simple and convenient. Quickly depressing the IS button located on the top of the binoculars will initiate the IS feature and lock it in place. Depressing the button a second time will release the function for standard viewing. This new feature allows users to freely view subjects without holding down the IS button and eliminates the need for special brackets or accessories to maintain prolonged viewing with image stabilization.

Availability and Pricing

The new 15x50IS All Weather and 18x50IS All Weather binoculars join Canon's existing lineup of binoculars including: 12x36IS, 10x30IS (Image Stabilizer); 8 x 32WP and 8 x 23AWP waterproof models; 10 x 25A and 8 x 32A ultra-compact models; and 5x17FC and 7x17FC ultra-compact models.

The Canon 15x50IS All Weather and 18x50IS All Weather Image Stabilizer binoculars will be available at authorized Canon dealers in March and have a suggested list price of $2,400 and $2,900, respectively.

About Canon U.S.A.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. is an industry leader in professional and consumer imaging solutions and, through its parent company, Canon Inc., is a top patent-holder of imaging technologies. The company's comprehensive product line includes networked multifunction devices; digital and analog copiers (color and black and white); printers, scanners, image filing systems, and facsimile machines; camcorders, cameras and lenses; and semiconductor, broadcast and medical equipment. Canon employs 12,000 people at more than 30 facilities throughout North, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

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