Kodak

Press Release

Kodak Focuses Consumer Business On More Profitable Growth Opportunities

Plans to phase out dedicated capture devices business

Eastman Kodak Company (the “Company”) (OTB: EKDKQ.PK) announced today that, as a result of its ongoing strategic review process and commitment to drive sustainable profitability through its most valuable business lines, it plans to phase out its dedicated capture devices business – comprising digital cameras, pocket video cameras and digital picture frames – in the first half of 2012. Kodak will instead expand its current brand licensing program, and seek licensees in these categories. Following this decision, Kodak’s Consumer Business will include online and retail-based photo printing, as well as desktop inkjet printing.  

Kodak has contacted its retail partners, and is working closely with them to ensure an orderly transition. Kodak will continue to honor all related product warranties, and provide technical support and service for its cameras, pocket video cameras and digital picture frames.  

“For some time, Kodak’s strategy has been to improve margins in the capture device business by narrowing our participation in terms of product portfolio, geographies and retail outlets. Today’s announcement is the logical extension of that process, given our analysis of the industry trends,” said Pradeep Jotwani, President, Consumer Businesses, and Kodak Chief Marketing Officer.   

Upon completion of the phase out, Kodak expects to achieve annual operating savings of more than $100 million. Kodak expects to incur a charge related to separation benefits of approximately $30 million resulting from the exit of the business.  

In addition to its Consumer Businesses segment, Kodak has a Commercial Businesses segment that includes the Digital and Functional Printing, Enterprise Services and Solutions, and Graphics, Entertainment and Commercial Films units. Kodak’s digital businesses now comprise approximately three-fourths of total revenues.          

Kodak continues to have a strong position in the personal imaging market.  While photos are increasingly taken on multi-function mobile devices, Kodak technology makes it easy for consumers to produce a broad range of photo products, anywhere, anytime – from prints to photobooks, photo greeting cards and personalized calendars. These items can be made on Kodak products, with Kodak quality at retail, at home, and ordered for delivery to home.   

Kodak’s continuing consumer products and services will include:  

• Retail-based photo kiosks and digital dry lab systems, a market in which Kodak is the clear worldwide leader. Kodak pioneered the retail-based kiosk market, and the company now has more than 100,000 kiosks and order stations for dry lab systems around the world, with some 30,000 of those units connected to the most popular photo-sharing sites.  
• Consumer inkjet printers, where Kodak has outpaced overall market growth for several years. Kodak consumer inkjet printers provide consumers with high-quality output and the lowest total ink replacement cost. Consumers can send documents and photos to Kodak printers from anywhere, using any web-connected device.  
• Kodak apps for Facebook, which make it easy for consumers to obtain photo products using photos from their Facebook albums.  
• Kodak Gallery (www.kodakgallery.com), a leading online digital photo products service. Kodak Gallery enables consumers to share their photos, and offers product and creation tools that enable people to do more with their photos.  
• The Kodak camera accessories and batteries businesses. These products are universally compatible with all camera brands, and extend into other consumer product segments such as charging units for smartphones.  
• The traditional film capture and photographic paper business, which continues to provide high-quality and innovative products and solutions to consumers, photographers, retailers, photofinishers and professional labs.

Meanwhile, The Economist has also published two interesting pieces on the company: the first comparing its fortunes with those of its Japanese peer Fujifilm, and a blog post looking at how large companies struggle with technology changes. The irony of Kodak’s dedication to research and development helping give birth to the technologies that saw its downfall is widely remarked upon.

Kodak’s film business (consumer, professional and movie) is still profitable, the company stresses.

Kodak has recently whipped-up a flurry of litigation against large electronics companies using the basic digital imaging processes it created. As well as creating the first commercial DSLR (the Kodak DCS), the company invented many of the technologies on which modern cameras are based (and its patents have raised over $3bn in revenue since 2003). No matter what happens to the company, it should be remembered that Kodak wasn’t just the company to create the 20th Century icon ‘Kodachrome,’ it’s also the company that created the Bayer color filter array that underpins the overwhelming majority of digital cameras used across the world.

Press Release:

Eastman Kodak Company and Its U.S. Subsidiaries Commence Voluntary Chapter 11 Business Reorganization

Flow of Goods and Services to Customers to Continue Globally in Ordinary Course; Non-U.S. Subsidiaries Are Not Included in U.S. Filing and Are Not Subject to Court Supervision; Company Secures $950 million in Debtor-in-Possession Financing in U.S.; Kodak’s Reorganization to Facilitate Emergence as Profitable and Sustainable Enterprise

Kodak has obtained a fully-committed, $950 million debtor-in-possession credit facility with an 18-month maturity from Citigroup to enhance liquidity and working capital. The credit facility is subject to Court approval and other conditions precedent. The Company believes that it has sufficient liquidity to operate its business during chapter 11, and to continue the flow of goods and services to its customers in the ordinary course.

Kodak expects to pay employee wages and benefits and continue customer programs. Subsidiaries outside of the U.S. are not subject to proceedings and will honor all obligations to suppliers, whenever incurred. Kodak and its U.S. subsidiaries will honor all post-petition obligations to suppliers in the ordinary course.  

“Kodak is taking a significant step toward enabling our enterprise to complete its transformation,” said Antonio M. Perez, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “At the same time as we have created our digital business, we have also already effectively exited certain traditional operations, closing 13 manufacturing plants and 130 processing labs, and reducing our workforce by 47,000 since 2003. Now we must complete the transformation by further addressing our cost structure and effectively monetizing non-core IP assets. We look forward to working with our stakeholders to emerge a lean, world-class, digital imaging and materials science company.”

“After considering the advantages of chapter 11 at this time, the Board of Directors and the entire senior management team unanimously believe that this is a necessary step and the right thing to do for the future of Kodak,” Mr. Perez continued. “Our goal is to maximize value for stakeholders, including our employees, retirees, creditors, and pension trustees. We are also committed to working with our valued customers.

“Chapter 11 gives us the best opportunities to maximize the value in two critical parts of our technology portfolio:  our digital capture patents, which are essential for a wide range of mobile and other consumer electronic devices that capture digital images and have generated over $3 billion of licensing revenues since 2003; and our breakthrough printing and deposition technologies, which give Kodak a competitive advantage in our growing digital businesses.”

Mr. Perez concluded, “The Board of Directors, the senior management team and I would like to underscore our appreciation for the hard work and loyalty of our employees. Kodak exemplifies a culture of collaboration and innovation.  Our employees embody that culture and are essential to our future success.”

Kodak has taken this step after preliminary discussions with key constituencies and intends to work toward a consensual reorganization in the best interests of its stakeholders.  Kodak expects to complete its U.S.-based restructuring during 2013.

The Company and its Board of Directors are being advised by Lazard, FTI Consulting Inc. and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. In addition, Dominic DiNapoli, Vice Chairman of FTI Consulting, will serve as Chief Restructuring Officer to support the management team as to restructuring matters during the chapter 11 case.

More information about Kodak’s Chapter 11 filing is available on the Internet at www.kodaktransforms.com.  Information for suppliers and vendors is available at (800) 544-7009 or (585) 724-6100.

Just One Button to Instantly Share High Quality Photos Wirelessly At Home or On the Go

London, UK, January 9, 2012 —Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK) today announced the next advancement in Wi-Fi sharing of high quality images with the launch of the KODAK EASYSHARE Wireless Camera M750. The built-in Wi-Fi for the 16 MP Wireless Camera means you no longer need to connect to a computer to share your images. Simply connect to a wireless network and sit back while your pictures are sent to your favorite social media destinations via the Share button.

The freedom of this wireless camera lets you share when you are on the go, even if there is no Wi-Fi network available. If you want to instantly show-off that incredible picture, download the free KODAK EASYSHARE Camera App on your ANDROID, APPLE or BLACKBERRY Device and share the photos through FACEBOOK, Email or KODAK Gallery Sites- no hot spot required. 

“The launch of the EASYSHARE Wireless Camera M750 marks the perfect union of the smartphone and digital camera,” said Phil Scott, Vice President of Digital Capture and Accessories. “The two technologies are now married to bring consumers the best experience from capture to share. Socially savvy users no longer have to compromise on image quality, now we can take great pictures and share instantly.”

The KODAK EASYSHARE Wireless Camera M750 also comes with a great array of features. Tap, swipe or drag your photos with ease with the bright 3.0 inch Capacitive Touch Screen. Capture pictures in stunning detail from afar, with the powerful RETINAR HD 5x Zoom Lens that keeps every detail crisp and clear. Never miss the action with the dedicated video record button that enables you to shoot in HD video on the fly. Then backup your images and video effortlessly with wireless back up to your home computer or simply copy your pictures to any compatible mobile Wi-Fi device.

KODAK EASYSHARE Wireless Camera M750 includes Kodak’s Smart Capture which adjusts settings automatically and includes special capture modes and photo effects for taking pictures that express your creativity. 

Available in silver and red for £129.95 MSRP, the EASYSHARE Wireless Camera M750 can be found at major retailers and Kodak.co.uk this spring.

In addition Kodak will also offer four other 2012 KODAK EASYSHARE Cameras to complement the range.  The KODAK EASYSHARE SPORT C135 – a waterproof, dustproof camera that can shoot video and 14 MP pictures up to 10′ underwater. It’s insanely small, yet the KODAK EASYSHARE M215 is full of surprises — like the self-portrait mirror that helps you get in to your group shots. Share your moments with the press of a button on the 14MP, 5 x Optical Zoom EASYSHARE M565. There is also the KODAK EASYSHARE Z5120 Camera with its 26X zoom, Optical Image Stabilisation, and 26 mm wide angle lens, bringing all your images closer to perfection.

All of the models have the option of wireless sharing with Eye-Fi Wireless Memory Cards (sold separately). Just press the Share button to wirelessly share pictures or videos.  

To learn more, please visit www.kodak.com/go/digitalcameras.

KODAK EASYSHARE Wireless Camera M750 Wi-Fi

• 16 MP, 5X zoom, HD video, 3.0 in. touchscreen
• Wi-Fi to Email and social sites (FACEBOOK)
• Wi-Fi copy to smartphone or tablet

Available in Red & Silver – Spring 2012 – MSRP £129.99

KODAK EASYSHARE SPORT Camera C135

• 14 MP, 2.4 “. LCD
• Waterproof & dustproof
• Share Button tags to FACEBOOK and more

Available in Red, Blue, White & Yellow – Spring 2012 – MSRP £59.99

KODAK EASYSHARE Camera M215

• 14 MP, 5X zoom, 2.5 in.  LCD, HD video
• Share button tags to FACEBOOK and more
• Self-portrait mirror for easy framing

Available in Purple, Red & Black – Spring 2012 – MSRP £79.99

KODAK EASYSHARE Camera M565

• 14 Megapixels with 2.7” Bright LCD
• 5X Optical Zoom
• Share Button tags to FACEBOOK and more

Available in Red & Silver – Spring 2012 – MSRP £79.99

KODAK EASYSHARE Camera Z5120

• 16 MP, 26X zoom OIS, 3″ LCD,  HD Video
• Share Button tags to FACEBOOK and more
• Capture full scene; 26 mm wide angle lens

ROCHESTER, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jan. 3, 2012– Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today announced that the Company has received a continued listing standards notice from the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) because the average closing price of the Company’s common stock was less than $1.00 per share over a period of 30 consecutive trading days.

The Company’s common stock continues to trade on the NYSE. Under NYSE rules, the Company has six months following receipt of the notification to regain compliance with the minimum share price requirement. The Company can regain compliance at any time during the six-month cure period if the Company’s common stock has a closing share price of at least $1.00 on the last trading day of any calendar month during the period and also has an average closing share price of at least $1.00 over the 30 trading-day period ending on the last trading day of that month or on the last day of the cure period.

The Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission reporting requirements and debt obligations are not affected by the receipt of the NYSE notification.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SAFE HARBOR PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995

Certain statements in this document may be forward-looking in nature, or “forward-looking statements” as defined in the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For example, references to the Company’s expectations regarding the following are forward-looking statements: the future trading price of the Company’s common shares; and compliance with or the Company’s ability to cure deficiencies under the NYSE listing standards.

Future events or results may differ from those anticipated or expressed in these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, among others, the following risks, uncertainties, assumptions and factors as described in more detail in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2011, June 30, 2011, and September 30, 2011, under the headings “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and “Cautionary Statement Pursuant to Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995″ and in other filings the Company makes with the SEC from time to time:

• Whether we can generate or raise cash and maintain a cash balance sufficient to fund our continued investments, capital needs, restructuring payments and service our debt;
• Whether we can raise sufficient proceeds from the sale of non-core assets and the potential sale of our digital imaging patent portfolios within our plan;
• Whether we are successful in licensing and enforcing our intellectual property rights on which our business depends, or if third parties assert that we violate their intellectual property rights which could adversely affect our revenue, earnings, expenses and liquidity;
• The competitive pressures we face which could adversely affect our revenue, gross margins and market share;
• Whether our commercialization and manufacturing processes fail to prevent product reliability and quality issues which could adversely affect our financial results, harm our reputation and delay product launch plans;
• Whether we are successful with the strategic investment decisions we have made which could adversely affect our financial performance;
• Whether we effectively anticipate technology trends and develop and market new products to respond to changing customer preferences which could adversely affect our revenue, earnings and cash flow;
• Continued weakness or worsening of economic conditions which could continue to adversely affect our financial performance and our liquidity;
• Whether we are successful in attracting, retaining and motivating key employees which could adversely affect our revenue and earnings;
• Whether our future pension and postretirement plan costs and required contribution levels are impacted by changes in actuarial assumptions, future market performance of plan assets or obligations imposed by legislation or pension authorities which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flow;
• Due to the nature of products we sell and our worldwide distribution, we are subject to changes in currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity costs which could adversely affect our results of operations and financial position;
• Whether we are able to provide competitive financing arrangements to our customers or if we extend credit to customers whose creditworthiness deteriorates which could adversely affect our revenue, profitability and financial position;
• Our failure to implement plans to reduce our cost structure in anticipation of declining demand for certain products or delays in implementing such plans which could adversely affect our consolidated results of operations, financial position and liquidity;
• We have outsourced a significant portion of our overall worldwide manufacturing, logistics and back office operations and face the risks associated with reliance on third party suppliers.

The Company cautions readers to carefully consider such factors. Many of these factors are beyond the Company’s control. While the Company may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so, even if its expectations change. In addition, these forward-looking statements represent the Company’s expectations only as of the date they are made, and should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s expectations as of any subsequent date.

Notwithstanding the opportunity for a six-month grace period to return to compliance with NYSE continued listing requirements, given the liquidity challenges confronting the Company and the recent market experience with our listed securities, there can be no assurance that the Company will return to compliance with the NYSE listing standards. Moreover, no assurance can be given that future actions by the Company or the marketplace will not give rise to alternative bases for potential delisting from the NYSE.

ROCHESTER, N.Y., November 07 – Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) announced today that it has completed the sale of its Image Sensor Solutions (ISS) business to Platinum Equity in a move that will sharpen Kodak’s operational focus and strengthen its financial position.

While the financial details were not disclosed, Kodak will have continuing access to the image sensor technology involved in this transaction for use in its own products. Kodak has previously communicated that it would sell assets that are not central to its transformation to a profitable, sustainable digital company. This sale is aligned with that strategy to generate cash to complete the transformation.

Included in the sale is a 263,000 square foot facility in Eastman Business Park in Rochester, N.Y., that houses manufacturing and research facilities.

The ISS business develops, manufactures, and markets the world’s highest performance solid state image sensor devices. Over the past 30 years, Kodak’s image sensors have delivered unrivaled image quality and innovative features for use in a broad range of demanding imaging applications. From precision manufacturing inspection to digital radiography, from earth imaging satellites to traffic monitoring, from the world’s highest performing studio photography cameras to DNA sequencing systems, customers around the world rely on high-performance products from ISS in the most mission-critical applications.

Platinum Equity is a global M&A&O® firm specializing in the merger, acquisition and operation of companies that provide services and solutions to customers in a broad range of business markets.

“Image Sensor Solutions is a business that is well-positioned in the high-performance imaging markets in which it participates,” said Pradeep Jotwani, President, Consumer Digital Imaging Group, and Senior Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “This sale maximizes shareholder value by obtaining a full and fair valuation for this business, and allows Kodak to increase its financial flexibility.”

Jotwani noted that Platinum Equity brings significant financial and operational resources to the ISS business and a comprehensive plan to ensure its continued success.

“Platinum Equity is an ideal acquirer of Kodak’s ISS business because they are committed to the success of the business for the benefit of customers and employees,” Jotwani said. “I’m very pleased that we have such a favorable outcome for all of our constituents.”

Platinum Equity focuses on acquiring businesses that can benefit from the firm’s extensive in-house capability and expertise in transition, integration and operations.

“This is a great opportunity to acquire a business with an impressive record for delivering innovative solutions to customers around the world,” said Brian Wall, the partner at Platinum Equity who led the team pursuing the acquisition. “The ISS business has a strong management team with the right vision for leading the company into the future. We share their commitment to product development and customer service and are committed to helping the business realize its full potential.”

Wall said Platinum Equity’s experience managing complex transitions from corporate parent companies will benefit employees, customers and other partners. 

Press Release:

Kodak Changes Landscape for Sharing with Smarter Imaging and Output Solutions Announced at CES

Kodak EasyShare Touch

Kodak to be First Printer Manufacturer to Ship 3D Photo Creation and Print Experience

Las Vegas, NV, January 4, 2010 – Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK), the world’s foremost imaging innovator, today introduced at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) digital photography products and services that redefine the way consumers capture, share and display their picture-perfect moments.

Combining consumer insights with intuitive technology, Kodak is reshaping the way consumers share with its newest offerings, including the world’s only digital cameras with 3-step sharing and new sharing destinations like TWITTER, as well as a high-quality addition to the entry of Kodak’s line of AiO Inkjet Printers featuring Kodak’s unique affordable ink system, and a new way to create and experience 3D images at home. Rounding out the new products are innovative and customizable offerings like photo books and photo cards from KODAK Gallery and KODAK Picture Kiosk.

“Innovation at Kodak has always been focused around making the complex simple for our customers,” says Betty Noonan, Kodak Director and Vice President, Business to Consumer Marketing. “Today, Kodak continues to bring technological advancements to market that make it easier and more convenient for consumers to share with their friends and family in their own unique way. The real KODAK Moment happens when you share and that drives our ongoing commitment to leading the evolution of imaging by developing intelligent solutions that marry consumer insights with innovative technology.”

Throughout CES, Kodak will lead a variety of panel discussions around the evolution of imaging on its interactive, in-booth stage, K-Zone. Bringing together the most influential industry thought leaders, Kodak continues to honor its commitment to innovation and smart technology for consumers and businesses alike. The compelling and engaging discussion around today’s emerging technology trends will be featured live from the show floor and also streamed live online at ThePulseNetwork.com during the first three days of CES, from January 6th through January 8th. To view the complete list of topics, the daily K-Zone schedule and to watch sessions live, please visit www.Kodak.com/go/CES.

In-booth, Kodak will engage consumers with an experiential Responder Wall, which leads consumers on a journey through Kodak’s rich heritage and provides interactive demonstrations of the smart technology products introduced at CES.

Kodak Products Introduced Today at CES

Capture and Share It
Kodak’s commitment to bringing to market intuitive products that make it easy to share and relive life’s moments continues with its innovative Spring 2011 product portfolio. Kodak offers the world’s only digital cameras with 3-step sharing1, making it easy for you to email your pictures to friends and the KODAK PULSE Digital Frame, and upload them to popular social networking sites including FACEBOOK, TWITTER, YOUTUBE, KODAK Gallery, FLICKR, and ORKUT, YANDEX and KAIXIN001 sites internationally. Using Kodak’s exclusive Share Button, you can tag pictures to the largest number of social networks and also simultaneously share to multiple social networks and email.

The new KODAK EASYSHARE TOUCH Camera (US $149.95 MSRP) has a 3-inch high resolution capacitive touchscreen LCD so you can show off your pictures in style. It also features a dedicated video record button that makes it easy to take 720p HD video that you can edit and share right on the camera. In addition, the EASYSHARE TOUCH Camera has an auto organization feature that simplifies finding the moments you want to share. With 14 MP and a 5X wide-angle SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH Optical Zoom Lens, the camera also boasts Kodak’s Smart Capture and Face Recognition features, multiple scene and artistic modes – like photo booth and film effects – to have more fun with your pictures, and an HDMI connector.

The new KODAK EASYSHARE MINI Camera (US $99.95 MSRP) is Kodak’s smallest camera yet. It’s super chic and super sleek. About the size of a credit card, it has a 3X wide-angle optical zoom lens and built-in front mirror so it’s a snap to get you and all your friends in the picture. The EASYSHARE MINI is a 10 MP camera with a 2.5-inch bright LCD, Kodak’s Smart Capture and Face Recognition features, multiple scene and color modes to have more fun with your pictures, and video.

The new KODAK EASYSHARE SPORT Camera (US $79.95 MSRP) is the perfect companion for your daily adventures. Dunk it in the pool or bring it to the beach. Kodak’s first waterproof digital still camera can go up to 10 feet underwater and is also dustproof to withstand dirt, dust and sand. The EASYSHARE SPORT is a 12 MP camera with a 2.4-inch LCD, Kodak’s Smart Capture feature, multiple scene and color modes to have more fun with your pictures, and video.

The new KODAK PLAYFULL Video Camera (US $149.95 MSRP) is packed full of features in an ultra slim and chic design. Made for social butterflies and social networking superstars, it not only fits in the pocket of your skinny jeans but looks good with them too. You can capture your best friend’s birthday party or a night at the fashion show in full 1080p HD video or 5 MP stills. Then simply press the Share Button to tag to your favorite social networking sites and email, and connect to your computer for automatic upload.

The next generation of the popular and award-winning KODAK PLAYSPORT Video Camera (US $179.95 MSRP) is designed for your adventurous lifestyle. In addition to being waterproof up to 10 feet, it’s now also shockproof and dustproof to withstand tough conditions and elements like dirt, dust and sand. Take it snowboarding, snorkeling, mountain biking, whitewater rafting or wherever your active lifestyle takes you. Capture your adventures in full 1080p HD video or 5 MP stills, then press the Share Button to easily share them with your social network.

Relive It
The next generation of the award-winning PULSE Digital Frame is Kodak’s latest socially connected product. The popular wireless device with its own email address now has an extra shot of social – allowing you to comment on the pictures you receive from friends and family the moment you receive them. A Quick Comment button on the touchscreen lets you communicate back to the picture sender directly from the frame and includes options like Such a KODAK MOMENT, LOL!, OMG!, Congrats! and Wish I were there!

In addition to a custom email address that makes it easy to receive new pictures wirelessly from mobile phones, smartphones and any device with email capability, the PULSE Frame connects to FACEBOOK and KODAK Gallery albums so pictures are streamed to your frame automatically. You can also now create playlists to choose the pictures you want to see the most.  Available in 7-inch (US $129.95 MSRP) and 10-inch (US $199.95 MSRP) sizes, the KODAK PULSE Digital Frame also has a new built-in activity sensor that turns the frame  on when you’re nearby and conserves power when you’re not.

Print It
The new KODAK ESP C310 All-in-One (AiO) Inkjet Printer ($99.99 U.S. MSRP) gives consumers a high-quality, unique printing experience. The newest addition to its AiO Inkjet Printer portfolio, the ESP C310 Printer with a sleek, new compact design provides wireless printing for effortless home use, easy-to-use features and Kodak’s legendary image quality for an unbeatable value. Coupled with a new, proprietary pigmented ink system4, which builds upon Kodak’s offer to consumers of the lowest total ink replacement cost5 and exceptional cost-per-page output, the ESP C310 Printer helps save the consumer time, money and energy. The proprietary pigmented inks, which use both Black and Color standard and XL cartridges, offer consumers more choices tailored to meet their printing needs. For example, the KODAK Black Ink Cartridge, 30XL and the KODAK Color Ink Cartridge, 30XL enable consumers who print a high volume of photos and documents two times more prints6 than the KODAK Black Ink Cartridge, 30 and KODAK Color Ink Cartridge, 30.

For consumers looking for a fun, creative project that adds a whole new dimension to their most precious memories, Kodak is launching 3D photo printing. Developed in the Kodak labs, Kodak will be the first consumer inkjet printer manufacturer to ship a 3D photo creation and printing experience, at an affordable price, enabling KODAK AiO Printer owners to easily create 3D photos – with no special equipment.

Learn more about Kodak’s inkjet portfolio and see how to save on ink at www.printandprosper.com.

Display It
Consumers are finding their way back to print – because innovative and customizable offerings like photo books and cards from KODAK Gallery and KODAK Picture Kiosk are so compelling. The latest innovation from KODAK Gallery, Photo Books with SMART FIT Technology, revolutionizes the photo book industry. This modern, cutting-edge technology allows you to organize, preserve and create a beautiful book of memories with speed and ease – and in a fun and creative way. Creating photos books from a Kodak Picture Kiosk offers instant gratification. Books are offered in a variety of sizes and prices to meet the needs of every consumer. (Dedicated website is http://www.kodakgallery.com/smartfit).

KODAK’s PYNK Smart Print System – an innovative and unique design tool found on the KODAK Picture Kiosk – redefines the frame category by automatically measuring, cropping, arranging and printing photos to fit your frame. The output is a KODAK PYNK SmartPrint that falls right into place – no scissors or searching for that perfect sized picture. Making the sharing process simple and solving the inherent problems of so many photo products, KODAK’s Picture Kiosks can be found in over 100,000 retail stores worldwide.
                                                                                                                                
“The products we introduce year after year are representative of our core mission – to make it easy and enjoyable for consumers to capture, share and display life’s most important moments,” said Noonan. “With this year’s new product and service offerings, we are making it more personal – letting you capture and share your KODAK Moments your way.”

Additional images

London, UK, September 1st, 2010 — Eastman Kodak Company today announced the newest addition to its innovative line of All-in-One (AiO) Inkjet Printers, that are intelligently designed to deliver superior performance*1 while maintaining Kodak’s Best-In-Class overall print permanence*1, low-cost ink system. With the introduction of the KODAK ESP 9250 AiO Printer, Kodak delivers an advanced printing system to consumers seeking professional-quality photos and documents without compromise.

“From low running costs to no-compromise, high-quality output and one-touch simplicity, the ESP 9250 Printer is a high-caliber printing machine designed to improve every aspect of the printing experience,” said Bob Ohlweiler, Director and Vice president, Consumer Inkjet Europe, Africa, Middle-East Region Eastman Kodak. “Consumers demand printing excellence and Kodak delivers with this new, advanced system.”

QUALITY – Kodak’s Proprietary Ink System
The KODAK AiO Inkjet portfolio produces KODAK Lab Quality photos,*2 documents that last a lifetime,*3 and low total running costs. Whether displayed on a wall or simply tacked on a refrigerator, KODAK Prints are designed not to fade. 

• The KODAK ESP 9250 Printer features Kodak’s proprietary pigmented inks for brilliant colours and permanence to last a lifetime.*3 Only Kodak offers proprietary pigmented inks to the average customer, which are designed to deliver richer, more vibrant colours that bond more effectively with paper to provide a significant fade resistance advantage over other ink systems, particularly the dye-based ink systems used by the majority of consumer inkjet manufacturers.  
• Using KODAK Ink and Photo Papers, prints dry instantly, don’t smear or smudge and are water resistant*4, even when using a highlighter on documents. Kodak’s propriety ink system has achieved Wilhelm Imaging Research (WIR) Display Permanence and album / dart storage ratings of greater than 120 years and WIR Unprotected Ozone Resistance ratings of more than 100 years.*5

INTELLIGENCE – Kodak’s ‘You Push the Button, We Do the Rest’ Performance
Kodak has always been about delivering smart design to consumers, combining one-touch simplicity with high-end performance and features. The new KODAK ESP 9250 Printer brings this promise to the inkjet printer market.

Rochester, NY, Aug 23 - Eastman Kodak Company today introduced the new KODAK EASYSHARE M590 Digital Camera, the ultimate social networking accessory for people who love to share their pictures. With Kodak’s exclusive Share Button, consumers can tag pictures and videos directly on the camera for effortless uploading to popular social networking sites including FACEBOOK, KODAK Gallery, FLICKR, ORKUT, and YOUTUBE. Pictures can also be tagged to email and to send to any KODAK PULSE Digital Frame.

The new KODAK EASYSHARE M590 Digital Camera is the world’s thinnest* 5X optical zoom digital camera. On top of its sleek, modern and stylish design, the camera also boasts advanced features including Kodak’s Face Recognition feature that makes it simple for consumers to find and share the pictures they want, and Kodak’s Smart Capture feature that helps them take better pictures automatically.

“We are thrilled to see how people have embraced Kodak’s Share Button as an easier way to share life’s moments with family and friends, in three simple steps,” said Phil Scott, Vice President of Marketing, Digital Capture and Devices, Kodak. “With the new KODAK EASYSHARE M590 Digital Camera, we are continuing our commitment to bring to market innovative, intuitive and stylish products that make it fun and easy for today’s socially savvy crowd to share all their favorite moments.”

KODAK M590 Digital Camera Features:

• Share Button for easy upload to KODAK Gallery, FACEBOOK, FLICKR, ORKUT, and YOUTUBE sites, as well as email
• World’s thinnest* 5X optical zoom digital camera (uses SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON lens)
• Built-in image stabilization
• Kodak’s Face Recognition feature
• Kodak’s Smart Capture feature
• 2.7-inch bright LCD with KODAK Color Science technology
• Li-Ion rechargeable batteries and in-camera charging
• HD picture and video capture
• Uses MICROSD/MICROSDHC Card

The KODAK EASYSHARE M590 Digital Camera will be available this fall for US $199.95 MSRP in silver, red, purple and blue at major retailers and Kodak.com.

New 10-inch KODAK PULSE Digital Frame

Kodak is also introducing a larger size for its popular and award-wining KODAK PULSE Digital Frame. The new 10-inch PULSE Digital Frame will be available this fall for US $199.95 MSRP at major retailers and Kodak.com. With all the features of Kodak’s current 7-inch PULSE Digital Frame, including Wi-Fi connectivity and a customizable email address, the 10-inch PULSE Frame is the perfect gift for the holiday season. The KODAK PULSE Digital Frame makes it easy for consumers to keep their frames fresh with new pictures and share with family and friends. Pictures can be emailed directly to the PULSE Frame from mobile phones, computers and any device with email capability. It also connects to FACEBOOK and KODAK Gallery photo albums, offers easy set-up with no software to install, and has an intuitive touchscreen interface.

With the KODAK PULSE Digital Frame, there is always something new to look forward to.

KODAK Digital Camera Accessories

A range of accessories are available for the KODAK M590 Digital Camera including:

• New KODAK Gripping Tripods available this fall in a variety of colors
• KODAK Cases, Bags and Neck Straps
• KODAK MICROSDHC Memory Card
• KODAK Li-Ion Rechargeable Digital Camera Battery KLIC-7000
• Battery charger options including KODAK Li-Ion Universal Battery Charger K7700-C

* World’s thinnest 5X optical zoom digital camera as of July, 2010

Agreement Is Royalty-Bearing to Kodak

ROCHESTER, N.Y.—Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK) announced today that it has entered into a technology cross license with Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. that will allow each company access to the other’s patent portfolio.

The license agreement, which provides significant benefits to both companies, is royalty bearing to Kodak. The company received a payment from Samsung in December that has been credited toward its royalty obligation. Additional financial details were not disclosed.

The companies also entered into an agreement to file joint requests for the termination of patent infringement proceedings before the U.S. International Trade Commission, and to settle their patent infringement lawsuits against each other, which are pending in U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York and in the German courts. Both the settlement of the litigation and the license agreement become effective upon approval by the International Trade Commission of the joint requests for termination. The ITC is expected to make its determination by the end of January 2010.

New Digital Camera Boasts Sleek Exterior with Thousands of KODAK Moments Inside Rochester, NY, Jan. 06 — Eastman Kodak Company today announced the latest addition to its consumer digital product portfolio, designed to make it easier than ever for people to share pictures with family and friends anytime, anywhere. The KODAK SLICE Touchscreen Camera lets consumers carry a personal photo album worth sharing and reliving at all times. With a sleek and intuitive 3.5-inch touchscreen, and the KODAK SLICE Search Feature, consumers can find the pictures they want from up to 5,000 that can be stored on internal memory. Then, they can easily share those pictures right from the back of the camera.

“Kodak knows that consumers want the ability to share life’s memories at a moment’s notice, whether it’s pictures that evoke a tear or just the funny everyday moments,” said John Blake, General Manager, Digital Capture and Devices and Vice President, Kodak. “The power of sharing and reliving life’s moments drove the development of our new SLICE Camera. It provides instant access to all of your KODAK Moments, and it’s right at your fingertips.”

Store, Sort and Share with the SLICE Camera

With the ability to store up to 5,000 pictures in HD resolution, the SLICE Camera’s onboard KODAK SLICE Search Feature and Face Recognition allow consumers to sort through thousands of pictures by person, place, date, or occasion in order to locate and share a collection of treasured moments.

The touchscreen and Share Button allow consumers to tag pictures directly on the camera for effortless uploading to popular sharing sites including Facebook, KODAK Gallery, Flickr, and YouTube. Pictures can also be tagged to email or to send directly to the new KODAK PULSE Digital Frame.

KODAK SLICE Touchscreen Camera features include:

• Intuitive 3.5-inch, 16:9 LCD touchscreen with anti-reflective coating
• KODAK SLICE Search Feature and Face Recognition to easily sort, locate and share pictures
• Share Button for easy upload to Facebook, KODAK Gallery, Flickr, YouTube sites and e-mail
• Store up to 5,000 pictures in HD resolution
• Stunning image quality with a 14MP CCD sensor and 5X SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH Lens
• Built-in optical image stabilization
• 720p/30fps HD video capture
• Kodak’s exclusive Smart Capture feature, which analyzes scenes and automatically adjusts camera settings to deliver beautiful pictures more often
• Compatible with PC or APPLE iLife Software
• Li-Ion rechargeable battery included

The KODAK SLICE Touchscreen Camera will be available in black, nickel and radish for US $349.95 MSRP beginning in April 2010. Best Buy will initially be the exclusive retailer for in-store sales. The KODAK SLICE Touchscreen Camera will also be sold online at Amazon.com and Kodak.com. 

Kodak is also introducing a case for the SLICE Camera, which was designed in a competition among accessories students at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City. The final case design was chosen by celebrated designer Steve Madden and FIT faculty.

Four New EASYSHARE Digital Cameras introduced at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show

Rochester, NY, Jan 6 — Eastman Kodak Company today unveiled the newest additions to its EASYSHARE Digital Camera portfolio. The new cameras are designed to make sharing pictures and videos to sites like Facebook, KODAK Gallery, Flickr and YouTube – or to an e-mail address – as simple as pressing one button on the camera. Equipped with a range of impressive features from Smart Capture and Face Recognition, to HD photo and video capture, the latest EASYSHARE Digital Cameras transform the “KODAK Moment” from a picture taking experience to a picture and video sharing experience thanks to the Kodak Share Button.

Kodak has improved its innovative on-camera tagging capability to make sharing as simple and personal as possible. The Share Button now allows consumers to tag pictures directly on the camera for effortless uploading to popular sharing sites including Facebook, KODAK Gallery, Flickr, and YouTube. Pictures can also be tagged to email or to send directly to the new KODAK PULSE Digital Frame.

“In a world where people are sharing online more than ever before, Kodak wants to make it as simple as possible. You simply press the Kodak Share Button to tag the pictures on the camera and they automatically email or upload to your favorite sharing sites when you connect to a computer,” said Phil Scott,Vice President of Marketing, Digital Capture and Devices, Kodak. “We designed our new digital cameras to give consumers an easier and more intuitive way to share and relive their moments when they want, where they want and how they want.”

Just Press Share with KODAK EASYSHARE M Digital Cameras

The KODAK EASYSHARE M Digital Camera line makes it simpler for consumers to share their pictures with one touch of the Share Button. The cameras include Kodak’s new Face Recognition feature so consumers can find the pictures they want, and Smart Capture feature so they can take the perfect shot in a variety of lighting conditions without worrying about camera settings. KODAK EASYSHARE M Digital Cameras come in a sleek and compact design, and are available in a variety of stylish colors.

KODAK EASYSHARE M580 Digital Camera features 14MP, 8X SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON Optical Zoom Wide Angle Lens, 3-inch Bright LCD with KODAK Color Science technology, HD video capture, built-in HDMI connector, and more. The M580 will be available in silver, light blue, brown, purple and pink for US $199.95 MSRP beginning in April 2010.

KODAK EASYSHARE M575 Digital Camera features 14MP, 5X SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON Optical Zoom Wide Angle Lens, 3-inch bright LCD with KODAK Color Science technology, HD video capture, and more. The M575 will be available in red, green, blue, black and brown for US $179.95 MSRP beginning in April 2010.

KODAK EASYSHARE M550 Digital Camera features 12MP, 5X Optical Zoom Wide Angle Lens, 2.7-inch Bright LCD with KODAK Color Science technology, and more. The M550 will be available in dark grey, purple, tan, blue and green for US $149.95 MSRP beginning in March 2010.

KODAK EASYSHARE M530 Digital Camera features 12MP, 3X Optical Zoom Lens, 2.7-inch bright LCD with KODAK Color Science technology, and more. The M530 will be available in red, green, blue, orange and carbon for US $129.95 MSRP beginning in February 2010.

* Colors and availability may vary by region

New KODAK Digital Camera Accessories

New accessories for KODAK Digital Cameras make it easy for consumers to be ready to capture life’s moments. They include:

KODAK Camera Battery Charger K7700 in a slim, sleek design is small enough to take anywhere, features fast one-hour charging for many KODAK Digital Cameras, and is ENERGY STAR® qualified.

KODAK C-Series Camera Battery Charger K450 includes two high performance AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries, which enable consumers to take approximately 300 pictures on a single charge, and is ENERGY STAR® qualified.

Additional images

iPhone/iPod touch Users Print and Share Photos directly to WiFi Enabled KODAK ESP 5250 Printers and W1020 Wireless Digital Frames

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Nov. 2 — Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK) has introduced the KODAK Pic Flick App, a new, free Apple iPhone and iPod touch Device that enables consumers to upload pictures to a KODAK W1020 Wireless Digital Frame or print them wirelessly on the KODAK ESP 5250 All-in-One (AiO) WiFi-enabled Printer, which saves consumers an average of $110 a year on ink* and offers the lowest total ink replacement cost in the industry.**

“Pictures are a way of sharing the unique moments in our lives,” said Randy Brody, Vice-President of Marketing Inkjet Systems, Eastman Kodak Company. “The KODAK Pic Flick App provides a fast, easy and fun way to print, display and share within seconds of capturing a moment at home or away from home. Consumers can simply upload pictures to a nearby KODAK W1020 Wireless Digital Frame or send them to the KODAK ESP 5250 AiO Printer using their Apple iPhone or iPod touch.”

The KODAK Pic Flick App features include:

• Dual purpose for printing and sharing: Consumers can print pictures on a KODAK ESP 5250 AiO Printer or share them on the wireless KODAK W1020 Wireless Digital Frame directly from their Apple iPhone or iPod touch Device.
• Wirelessly print and share images within your WiFi network range.
• Print photos from 2×3 to 8.5×11 inches on the KODAK ESP 5250 AiO Printer.

“At Kodak, we believe pictures are meant to be shared and are committed to helping people do more with their pictures by providing solutions to make, manage and move images easily and effortlessly,” continues Brody. “With the KODAK Pic Flick App, we are helping consumers to print and share moments in the time it takes to make a simple phone call.”

The KODAK Pic Flick App is free and is available on the App Store.

To learn more, please visit the official KODAK Pic Flick page www.Kodak.com/go/PicFlick . KODAK Pic Flick App works on Apple iPhone and iPod touch devices using OS version 2.2 and above.

To send a print job or a file to the KODAK ESP 5250 All-in-One Printer or to the KODAK W1020 Wireless Digital Frame, consumers need to ensure that the device(s) are connected to the same LAN/WiFi connection as their iPhone or iPod touch device.

The KODAK ESP 5250 AiO Printer, available since September 2009, is the latest in Kodak’s range of AiO consumer printers. Kodak printers, including the KODAK ESP 5250, produce lab-quality, long-lasting photos and documents.

Press Release:

New cameras from Kodak include versatile high-zoom
addition to popular Z-Series

New M-Series models also debut,
delivering powerful features in sleek designs

London, July 29, 2009 — Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today announced the newest additions to the KODAK EASYSHARE Digital Camera family, all featuring Kodak’s Smart Capture technology that consistently delivers high quality images in nearly any environment.

Leading the new introductions is the KODAK EASYSHARE Z950 Digital Camera, offering a 10X image stabilised Schneider-Kreuznach optical zoom lens that provides maximum versatility for avid photographers to easily handle both distant and close-up shots. It also incorporates Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature, which automatically adjusts focus, flash, and exposure for a great picture in virtually any setting.

“The KODAK EASYSHARE Z950 Digital Camera enables consumers to effortlessly get brilliant shot after brilliant shot,” says Carolyn Walsh, Product Sales Director, CDG, FPG, UK & Ireland. “You can capture great pictures as you move from daytime to night and from family shots to landscapes. And the Z950 delivers all this in a compact form that makes it easy to take anywhere.”

Image quality in the new camera is enhanced by a SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON Optical Zoom Lens with image stabilisation. Walsh notes that the precision optics of the lens integrate with the camera’s design and technology to deliver high resolution, minimum shading and low distortion.

“The combination of these features plus a 12 MP sensor makes the Z950 a compact digital capture powerhouse, with outstanding image quality and ease of use at an affordable price,” says Walsh.

The full feature set of the new KODAK EASYSHARE Z950 Digital Camera includes:

• 12 MP sensor (for prints up to 30”x40”);
• Crisp and bright 3″ LCD
• Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature, which automatically identifies the scene and adjusts camera settings for beautiful pictures in virtually any environment
• Capture challenging action shots without delay with fast click-to-capture speed (<0.3 seconds)
• Stunning HD picture and video capture
• Included Li-ion rechargeable batteries
• Face detection that locates faces and automatically adjusts camera settings for great shots of friends and family
• Advanced video features include audio capture, playback, on-camera editing, and prints from video
• High ISO for great results in low-light and fast-action settings (up to 3200*1)
• SDHC (high capacity)/SD card compatibility and 32 MB internal memory.*2

The new KODAK EASYSHARE Z950 Digital Camera will retail for £199.99 from September, 2009.

Kodak also introduced the KODAK EASYSHARE M381 Digital Camera, boasting a sleek and stylish form that houses powerful features for easily capturing brilliant pictures.
 
“Memorable moments worth capturing and sharing can pop up in an instant, and the slim design of the KODAK EASYSHARE M381 Digital Camera enables consumers to take it anywhere those moments may happen,” says Walsh.

Even when the picture you want is far away, the M381 brings you closer without moving an inch, thanks to a 5X optical zoom lens. “Plus, you’ll take great pictures in just about any situation, thanks to our Smart Capture technology,” Walsh adds.

The advanced feature set of the KODAK EASYSHARE M381 Digital Camera also includes:

• Smart Capture technology
• 12 MP sensor for prints up to 30″ x 40″
• Bright and vivid 3″ LCD
• Face detection that recognises up to five faces and automatically adjusts settings
• Blur reduction technology that reduces blur caused by camera shake or moving subjects
• Easy uploading of pictures and video directly to YouTube™ or KODAK Gallery via the “Share” button and KODAK EASYSHARE Software
• Stunning HD still picture capture
• Advanced video features include audio capture, playback, on-camera editing, and prints from video
• Multiple scene (19) and colour modes (5)
• High ISO (up to 1600)
• Runs on included rechargeable lithium ion battery (KLIC-7001).

The KODAK EASYSHARE M381 Digital Camera will be available in Black Olive, Light Steel Blue and Wine Red for £129 from September, 2009.

Also new to the M Series camera line is the sleek KODAK EASYSHARE M341 Digital Camera, featuring Smart Capture, 12MP sensor, 3x optical zoom, and 2.7” LCD, and Easy uploading of pictures and video directly to YouTube™ or KODAK Gallery via the “Share” button and KODAK EASYSHARE Software. Available in Grey Silver, Classic Kodak Red, Satin Black and Deep Orchid, and retailing at £119.99 RRP from August, 2009.

Accessories
A range of accessories will be available for these new KODAK EASYSHARE Digital Cameras including KODAK Li-Ion Rechargeable Digital Camera Batteries and battery charger kits; KODAK SD and SDHC High Performance Memory Cards; KODAK Camera Bags and much more.

*1 ISO 3200 available at 3.1 MP setting or less in PASM modes.
*2 32 MB internal memory/20 MB available for picture storage.

Additional images

Press Release:

New Digital Camera from Kodak delivers high-zoom, high-resolution performance in a compact design

Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature delivers beautiful pictures automatically

London, UK, March 3, 2009 — Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today introduced a new addition to its versatile line of digital cameras: the KODAK EASYSHARE Z915, featuring a powerful image stabilised 10X optical zoom lens and Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature that consistently delivers high quality images.

The new camera debuted at Kodak’s booth at the 2009 PMA International Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas (booth F200, South Hall).

The KODAK EASYSHARE Z915 Digital Camera enables avid picture takers to easily capture crisp long-distance shots with a 10X image-stabilised optical zoom lens. The Z915 also offers fast click-to-capture performance and Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature, which automatically detects the scene being shot and adjusts camera settings to capture the best image possible. Smart Capture also automatically applies KODAK PERFECT TOUCH processing to enhance highlight and shadow areas.

Lightweight and compact, the Z915 is available in a variety of colours: red, blue, black and gray.

“The new Z915 is a versatile camera that’s ideal for families on the go, making it ideal for consumers who want more zoom but don’t want a bulky camera,” said Matthew Yarrow, Country Business Manager, for the Consumer Digital Imaging Group (CDG) and the Film & Photofinishing Systems Group (FPG), UK and Ireland, Eastman Kodak Company. “With its combination of Smart Capture and high zoom with optical image stabilisation, the Z915 stands out in a fast-growing product category, and delivers great performance to consumers who are looking for new ways to advance their digital photography experience.”

The new KODAK EASYSHARE Z915 Digital Camera offers:

• 10X image stabilised optical zoom lens;
• Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature, which analyses scenes and adjusts camera settings to automatically deliver beautiful pictures;
• HD picture capture;
• 10 MP for prints up to 30”x40”
• Versatile AA battery solution in a compact and stylish body
• Bright and detail-rich 2.5-inch indoor/outdoor colour display
• Compatible with KODAK SDHC/SD Memory Cards
• Colour options include red, blue, black and gray
• Available at £179.99 from May, 2009.

Accessories
A range of accessories will be available for the new KODAK EASYSHARE Z915 Digital Camera, including KODAK Ni-MH AA Rechargeable Digital Camera Batteries and battery charger kits; KODAK SD and SDHC High Performance Memory Cards; KODAK Camera Bags and cases, and much more.

Additional images

New models include Powerful 24x zoom and sleek compact with 5x zoom

London, January 5, 2009 — Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today announced new additions to its digital camera line, led by the high-zoom KODAK Z980 Digital Camera, featuring outstanding control and Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature that consistently delivers high quality images.

Featuring a wealth of power and versatility, the KODAK Z980 Digital Camera offers a 26 mm wide angle, professional quality, 24X image stabilised optical zoom lens, a vertical shutter release and a hot shoe, all at an affordable price.

The Z980 enables serious photographers to easily handle both long-distance and wide-angle shots, and boasts Kodak’s innovative Smart Capture feature, which adjusts the camera’s settings to deliver brilliant images automatically.

“The Z980 is an ideal camera for photographers looking to do more and get more from their digital camera,” said Matthew Yarrow, Country Business Manager, for the Consumer Digital Imaging Group (CDG) and the Film & Photofinishing Systems Group (FPG), UK and Ireland, Eastman Kodak Company. “The versatile lens, combined with our exclusive Smart Capture feature, lets consumers shoot great pictures in any setting –  from daylight to night or from close-ups to landscapes, the camera makes adjustments automatically.” The new KODAK Z980 Digital Camera offers:

• Kodak’s exclusive Smart Capture feature, which analyses scenes and adjusts camera settings to deliver beautiful pictures more often;
• 26 mm wide angle/24X Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon Image Stabilised Optical Zoom Lens;
• HD picture and video capture;
• Vertical shutter release and detachable vertical grip, for greater comfort and control when shooting scenes vertically;
• Hot shoe for the optional KODAK P20 flash;
• 12 MP for prints up to 30”x40”;
• Bright and detail-rich 3-inch indoor/outdoor colour display;
• Compatible with new KODAK WI-FI Memory Cards and KODAK SDHC/SD Memory Cards;
• Pricing and availability for the KODAK Z980 TBC

Kodak also introduced new models to its M-Series Digital Camera line, led by the KODAK EASYSHARE M380 Digital Camera. A sleek but powerful digital camera for style-savvy consumers, the M380 delivers an innovative feature package led by Kodak’s Smart Capture feature, and also boasts a 10MP sensor, 5x optical zoom, and 2.7” LCD. The M380 will be available in black, red and teal, with pricing and availability TBC

Also new to the KODAK M Series Digital Cameras are:

• KODAK EASYSHARE M340 Digital Camera, offering Smart Capture, 10MP sensor, 3x optical zoom, 2.7” LCD, in a slim body design; available in blue, blue-green, silver, and red with pricing and availability TBC.
• KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, featuring Kodak Perfect Touch technology providing automatic red-eye reduction, shadow lightening and more,  9MP sensor, 3x optical zoom, 2.7” LCD; available in black, silver, red and blue, with pricing and availability TBC

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Nov. 17 – Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) announced today that it has filed complaints against Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics and other related entities for infringement of Kodak patents.

The Kodak actions specifically allege that Samsung and LG camera phones infringe Kodak digital camera patents. The patents in question cover technology related to image capture, compression and data storage and a method for previewing motion images.

Kodak filed against Samsung and LG in theUnited States District Court for the Western District of New York, as well as in the U.S. International Trade Commission. Kodak’s District Court complaints request compensation for damages resulting from the companies’ infringement, and both the District Court and ITC actions seek injunctions prohibiting Samsung and LG from further importation and sale of products cited in the complaints. Kodak did not disclose the amount of damages it is pursuing.

“Kodak has a long history of innovation and we have invested many millions of dollars developing our digital camera technology,” said Laura G. Quatela, Chief Intellectual Property Officer, and Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company.

“We’ve held discussions with both companies in an attempt to resolve this issue and have not been able to reach a satisfactory agreement. Consequently, we must take this legal action in order to ensure that we protect the interests of our shareholders and existing licensees of Kodak digital camera patents.”

Cologne, Germany, September 23, 2008 – CCD Image Sensors from Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) have been selected again to power the most advanced cameras for professional photographers. Showcased at this year’s Photokina trade fair in Cologne, Germany, the new cameras – the LEICA S2, the HASSELBLAD H3DII-50, and the SINAR Hy6-65 – are based on both new and existing KODAK CCD Image Sensors, and further establish Kodak as the leading supplier of the most advanced image sensors used in professional photography.

“Kodak has a rich history of supplying image sensors of the highest quality for use in professional photography – where image quality, resolution, and color fidelity are critical to a photographer’s success,” said Michael Miller, manager of Kodak’s CCD Image Sensor Business, part of the company’s Image Sensor Solutions group. “We are excited to see this legacy continue with the launch of a new generation of cameras from the world’s leading manufacturers that will allow photographers to capture images of the highest quality and the finest detail.”

The LEICA S2 camera, powered by the new KODAK KAF-37500 Image Sensor, is the third product from Leica to be based on KODAK CCD Image Sensors – a relationship that began first with the LEICA Digital Module-R and was then extended with the LEICA M8 camera. With an imaging area of 45mm x 30mm, the 37.5 million pixel KAF-37500 represents a new optical format for photography, providing an image capture area over 50% larger than traditional 35mm film.

The sensor also includes specific design features that optimize its use in the S2 camera, such as the use of microlenses to increase the overall light sensitivity of the device, enabling improved image quality under low light conditions. In addition, an infra-red absorbing optic was incorporated directly into the sensor’s packaging, enabling the development of a thinner camera design by eliminating the need to include this IR-absorbing function as a separate camera component.

The new KODAK KAF-50100 Image Sensor was selected by Hasselblad for use in the HASSELBLAD H3DII-50, the top model of Hasselblad’s H3DII family and their fourth-generation medium-format camera. Twice the physical size of the largest 35mm DSLR image sensor, the 50 million pixel KAF-50100 sets a new resolution benchmark for the popular 48mm x 36mm optical format used in medium-format photography, while improving upon the quality and imaging performance available from the previous generation of KODAK sensors.

Both the KAI-50100 and the KAF-37500 Image Sensors are based on the new KODAK TRUESENSE 6.0 micron Full Frame CCD Platform, the company’s fourth generation of technology for professional photography. This new platform increases both the resolution and camera performance available for photographers by reducing pixel size and “click-to-capture” time for improved camera response, improving frame rate, lowering power consumption, and improving color fidelity while retaining key performance parameters available from the previous generation of technology.

Sinar has selected the 31.6 million pixel KODAK KAF-31600 Image Sensor for use in the SINAR Hy6-65, a new system that brings integrated digital image processing to medium format photography. Leveraging the light sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and outstanding color fidelity available from the KAF-31600 Image Sensor, this camera brings the superb image quality and performance available from the KAF-31600 to a new generation of products available from Sinar.

Editorial:

“We were being told two things by our customers,” said Kodak: “The first was the need for more resolution, to give increased levels of detail. The cameras this chip will be used in can support this: they have headroom in terms of what their lenses can resolve. But, at the same time, we were being told: ‘Don’t take anything away that we already have,’ particularly in terms of dynamic range.”

Kodak says the new chip is the first of a new generation of sensors and is the first to utilize a new technology platform. There are three key technologies in the new chip to help improve responsiveness, color accuracy and to handle the output of such a large sensor. One of the most interesting is the chip’s four-channel readout, which has been designed with dynamic range, rather than speed, in mind.

Four-channel readout

“Dynamic range is essentially signal-to-noise ratio, which is just signal divided by noise.” the company said: “Going to a smaller pixel you get less signal so, to retain dynamic range, we need to drop noise.”

“The 39MP chip was a two-channel readout design. This means each row was pulled down into the output register, then read out from either side of the chip to the amplifiers, before the next row could be pulled down. The 50MP is a four channel device – there are two registers, one for the odd pixels, the other for the even ones. Again, half go to the left and half go to the right.

“As you operate the amps faster and faster, you get more noise. This four-channel approach gave us more bandwidth, partly to deal with the extra information created by the extra pixels but also to allow us to run the amplifiers slower. On this chip there are four amplifiers running at 18Mhz, rather than two running at 24Mhz.”

Pulse flush

Click-to-capture time is kept down by using a new pixel clearing technology Kodak has dubbed ‘Pulse flush.’ “Before you can read the output of a sensor, you have to make sure it’s clear from any electrical noise that could be hanging around. Traditionally you had to read out all of the pixels, drop them down and through the output register. As you increase pixel count, this takes more and more time and also it takes power.

“What we’ve got in this design, in addition to the light sensitive area in each pixel, is a drain for anti-blooming draining. This is usually used to carry away excess voltage if the pixel is over-exposed, to stop that voltage over-flowing into neighboring pixels. We use that, in a process called ‘Pulse flushing,’ to drain all the pixels before each shot. This way the initial delay is measured in microseconds, rather than milliseconds.”

Color accuracy

The other change in the new chip is the use of a new red pigment to increase color accuracy. “One of the things our customers liked about the last chip was the color accuracy but we thought we could do something to make it better. The new pigment shifts the absorption band 15 nm towards the blue, which increases the overlap between the red and green channels.”

Increasing the overlap between channels helps the camera more accurately detect colors that fall between the two channels, meaning the new sensor should be better able to interpret yellow and orange tones.

Although Kodak refers to the chip as being the first product based on a new technology platform, it would not be drawn on whether this could include application on a DSLR scale. In addition to medium-format professional photography, the company said the sensor had been generating interest from aerial photography companies.

Press release:

World’s First 50 Megapixel CCD Sensor Sets New Standard for Professional Photographers

ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 8, 2008 – Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) has achieved another breakthrough in its storied history of imaging technology innovation with the introduction of the world’s first 50 million pixel CCD image sensor for professional photography.

At 50 million pixels, or megapixels, the sensor captures digital images with unprecedented resolution and detail. For instance, with a 50 megapixel camera, in an aerial photo of a field 1.5 miles across, you could detect an object about the size of a small notebook computer (1 foot by 1 foot).

What’s more, the KODAK KAF-50100 Image Sensor features a newly designed pixel that is smaller in size than the pixel used in current products for this professional market. This new pixel also reduces “click-to-capture” time for improved camera response, lowers power consumption for improved battery life, and improves color fidelity without compromising on the benefits to be enjoyed from larger pixel sizes.

“Professional photographers need to capture ever-increasing image detail with higher camera performance, and that to drives us to develop new technologies and products to serve this important market,” said Michael Miller, manager of Kodak’s CCD Image Sensor Business, part of the company’s Image Sensor Solutions group. “Kodak image sensors have been known as the professional imaging standard for years, and today’s announcement reaffirms our dedication to provide industry-leading image sensors that give professional photographers a real competitive advantage.”