Info: Compact digital camera wars
Various Japanese industry analysts believe that in two to three years, the number of major manufacturers involved in compact digital camera production will be halved. The relentless 6-month product cycle, deep discounting of old stock, competition from camera-phones, market saturation, and huge R&D investment is not sustainable over the long run. Who will survive? Let's look at the field:
We've already seen Epson, Toshiba and Contax leave the field (although Epson is trying to get back in with the R-D1). Casio and Ricoh are struggling to stay in play, and Pentax is looking weaker in recent months.
Have thoughts who will remain? Post a comment here.
- Canon
- Nikon
- Olympus
- Minolta
- Sony
- Kodak
- Panasonic
- Pentax
- Leica
- Casio
- Ricoh
ContaxToshibaEpson
We've already seen Epson, Toshiba and Contax leave the field (although Epson is trying to get back in with the R-D1). Casio and Ricoh are struggling to stay in play, and Pentax is looking weaker in recent months.
Have thoughts who will remain? Post a comment here.
I'm a cultural anthropologist who focuses on disability and minority identity issues in contemporary Japan. I'm also an avid photographer and gear head.
2 Comments:
I don't know, Karen. I have an Epson R-D1. From what I read, the electronics are Epson's, but the camera body is C-V made. So does that make Epson a player? Not sure.
I do love the R-D1, and it's my most used and pocketable digital camera. It and a Leica CL are my favorite traveling pair.
If Epson makes a real commitment to the R-D1 (QC issues like Rangefinder alignment aside), and makes an R-D2 that is lower in price, it may have the makings of a strong niche here. Especially if the body plus a 2 lens kit (CV) can be marketed at $2000 US... (28 & 35mm lenses perhaps).
Epson actually has two digital cameras: the R-D1 and the L-500V. The latter is domestic (Japan) only.
http://www.i-love-epson.co.jp/products/printer/inkjet/colorio/photopc.htm
I haven't seen the L-500V sold in stores here, though. And Epson hasn't indicated that there will be a sequel to the R-D1. While sales were initially strong, they are weakening as the market has fairly much saturated at the price level they are asking. Nonetheless, it is doubtful whether Epson made a profit on the R-D1.
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