Consumer Electronics Daily News

OmniVision's New Image Sensor Delivers Ultra-High Resolution 4K2K Video with Best-In-Class High- and Low-Light Performance

OmniVision Technologies, Inc. today announced the OV10822, a new 10.5-megapixel CameraChip™ sensor that brings DSC-level performance to smartphones and tablets. The OV10822 is a native 16:9 high definition (HD) image sensor capable of recording ultra-high resolution 4K2K video and transitioning seamlessly between recording still images and HD video. The sensor leverages OmniVision's most advanced 1.4-micron OmniBSI-2™ pixel to provide dramatically increased sensitivity and improved high- and low-light performance, delivering excellent image and video quality even in difficult lighting conditions.

"It is no secret that the next generation smartphones and tablets will be moving to higher resolution cameras, but higher resolution does not guarantee better performance," said Harish Iyer, product marketing manager at OmniVision. "The OV10822's new pixel has thus been crafted to provide not only higher resolution, but enhanced performance at higher resolutions as well.  This key feature combination is designed to addresses the OEM's drive to achieve balance between industrial design, box specification and the desire to truly deliver DSC-quality images and video on mobile devices."

As a native 16:9 sensor, the OV10822 offers instant transition between video and image capture modes on mobile devices, and enables the user to capture still images while simultaneously recording HD video without any change in field of view (FOV). The 1/2.6-inch OV10822 utilizes an optimized 1.4-micron OmniBSI-2 pixel to deliver improved high- and low-light performance, as well as alternate row high dynamic range (HDR) functionality. With these features, the OV10822 can offer excellent scene reproduction even in difficult lighting conditions. It records full-resolution 10.5-megapixel (4320 x 2432 pixels) video at 30 frames per second (FPS), as well as 4K2K (3840 x 2160 pixels) at 30 FPS with full horizontal FOV. Additionally, the OV10822 can support 1080p FHD video at 60 FPS while maintaining FOV with binning functionality for RAW output.

The OV10822 features a high-speed 4-lane MIPI output interface to support the required high data transfer rate, and fits into a camera module form factor of 10 x 10 x 6.5 mm. With advancements in lens designs and autofocus actuator technology, the OV10822 will soon be fitting into camera modules that are under 6 mm in height.

The OV10822 is currently available for sampling and is expected to enter volume production in the first quarter of 2014.

Fall In Love Again: New Df D-SLR Is Undeniably A Nikon

The new Nikon Df is a modern classic designed for those who have felt a connection to their camera, who revel in the idea of going out to photograph an unfamiliar location, and who know the effort and ultimate satisfaction that is part of getting the shot. Announced today, the Nikon Df is a unique, advanced-level D-SLR that harmonizes Nikon heritage and modern performance in a lightweight and very capable FX-format camera. The new Df pays homage to the enduring style and controls of Nikon's distinguished "F" series of 35mm film cameras, yet features technology similar to Nikon's professional flagship D4 D-SLR. Released alongside the similarly styled AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition lens, Nikon's newest FX-format D-SLR presents a versatile and reliable option to help passionate photographers truly achieve their creative vision.

"Nikon cameras have played an important role in documenting world history for the better part of 50 years, and have earned their position as a reliable tool that pros and enthusiasts can count on. The  Nikon Df represents much more than a storied legacy of cameras; it's more about giving the user a chance to truly enjoy the experience of taking amazing images," said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. "The design is unwavering, and the features are the latest in Nikon imaging technology. The Df brings together the best of yesterday and today for advanced full frame photographers."

A Classically Styled, Thoroughly Modern Masterpiece                           
From a robust feel, to mechanical dials and finely detailed craftsmanship, the Df embodies the very best of Nikon's photographic legacy. The classically styled camera recalls design cues such as a recognizable pentaprism and top cover, which is now constructed of durable, lightweight magnesium alloy. The top of the camera features elegant yet sophisticated mechanical controls for settings, letting users feel the tactile reassurance of adjustments, such as a familiar click stop for shutter speed adjustment. Additional dedicated dials also control ISO, exposure compensation, release mode and exposure mode, while modern controls are also easily accessible. The intuitive control layout allows for quick and confident setting adjustment, yet retains a solid operational experience that "feels like a Nikon camera."

The Df has been designed with an emphasis on familiar intricate details made famous from previous generations, including the leather-textured top and grip, along with the body mounted shutter button with a threaded release port. The design also recalls the slenderness of the previous generation's cameras, making this the smallest and lightest FX-format camera in Nikon's lineup.

It isn't all about good looks though, as this enduring design is coupled with legendary performance to create a very capable and extremely appealing FX-format offering for professionals and enthusiasts.  The 16.2-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor of the Df is inherited from Nikon's professional flagship D-SLR, the D4. The large 36 x 23.9mm CMOS sensor is praised for its ability to produce amazing image quality in a wide variety of lighting conditions. Whether shooting landscapes, wildlife or weddings, the frames captured with the Df exhibit amazing clarity, accurate color and a broad dynamic range. In addition, Nikon's exclusive EXPEED 3 image processing engine helps propel image quality, yielding images with a natural color and depth, all while enhancing subtle and nuanced tones.

Additionally, like the professional Nikon D4, the Df performs well in a wide variety of challenging lighting conditions with an exceptionally wide ISO range from 100 to 12,800, expandable to a staggering ISO 204,800. The combination of low noise and wide range make this an appealing camera to take on the challenges faced by photojournalists and event photographers, as well as those who enjoy the pursuit of extracting otherwise impossible images using natural light.

A Feature Set for Passionate Photographers                           
The Nikon Df is engineered to enhance the experience of taking photos and represents a culmination of decades of experience and feedback from photographers in the field, the studio and the sidelines. From its proven AF system to modern connectivity and legacy lens compatibility, the Df contains the century's best photographic features for an enjoyable all-day shooting experience.

• AF System: The convenience and precision of Nikon's 39-point AF system is proof-positive of the benefits of modern technology. With 39 selectable AF points throughout the frame for precise focus, the Df also features nine cross-type sensors, and seven AF points capable of working down to f/8. Users can also choose from a variety of AF area modes to match their shooting style: nine-point, 21-point, 39-point, 39-point with 3D Tracking and Auto Area AF.
• Get the shot with 2016-Pixel 3D Matrix Metering and Scene Recognition System: This Nikon system analyzes each shooting scenario and determines proper camera settings, resulting in even exposures, accurate white balance and precise AF. To capture action sports, wildlife and other fast moving subjects, the Df has a continuous burst shooting rate of up to 5.5 frames-per-second (fps).
• Compose with a 3.2-inch LCD Display and Glass Pentaprism Viewfinder: Users can easily compose through the high-resolution LCD screen or the bright optical viewfinder. The LCD screen has 921K-dot resolution, making it easy for users to adjust additional settings, review images or compose using Live View. Using the glass optical viewfinder, users will enjoy 100 percent accuracy and a bright field of view. What's more, the shooting data presented through the viewfinder has also been updated and digitized.
• Connect and Share Instantly: Another modern touch allows users to connect and share their images instantly using the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. By connecting to a mobile device, users can download and share images or remotely fire the camera.
• Features for Creativity:  Photographing dramatic monochrome or vivid landscapes is easier with Nikon's Picture Controls, which allow for the customization of color, saturation and tone. The Df also features built-in High Dynamic Range (HDR) to combine multiple shots with enhanced tonal range, and two to five-frame auto-bracketing. For maximum control, images can also be captured in JPEG, TIFF or RAW file formats.
• Support for a Storied NIKKOR Legacy: In addition to being compatible with all current AF, AF-S, DX and AF-D NIKKOR lenses, the Df is also compatible with classic Ai and non-Ai NIKKOR glass. Thanks to a new metering coupling lever located on the bayonet, the user has the ability to once again enjoy their lens collections with renewed functionality. Full-aperture metering is also supported.
• Accessory System Support: The Df is compatible with Nikon's Creative Lighting System (CLS), letting users take advantage of i-TTL exposure or fire multiple units remotely using a Speedlight commander. To remotely trigger the shutter, the camera also supports the new WR remote system, as well as the threaded AR-3 cable release, which screws in to the shutter button in the traditional style.

A Classic FX-Format Special Edition NIKKOR Prime                    
The new AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition lens is the result of classic NIKKOR styling combined with today's optics to create the ideal focal length companion lens for the Df. The design honors original NIKKOR Ai lenses, with colors, texture, and an aluminum mounting ring that is mated to the style of the Df. This lens is ideal for everyday portraiture, landscapes and casual photography, but offers a wide aperture and seven-blade diaphragm for natural image blur and a dramatic depth of field. Despite the timeless design, the 50mm f/1.8G is created with modern AF-S design benefits to give photographers rapid response, quiet operation and excellent sharpness and clarity throughout the frame.                            

Price and Availability                                         
The Nikon Df will be available in late November 2013, invoking classic Nikon silver and black color schemes. The suggested retail price (SRP) of the Df (body only) will be $2,749.95*, while the Df and 50mm f/1.8 Special Edition lens kit will have a SRP of$2,999.95. The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G lens will be sold separately for a SRP of $279.95. For an additional flair of nostalgic style, Nikon is also offering black or brown leather carrying cases, the CF-DC6B and CF-DC6S (pricing and availability to be announced).

JOBY goes Pro with its Next-Generation Camera Sling Strap

JOBY introduces the Pro Sling Strap™ for professional photographers. With its patent-pending SpeedCinch™ pulley system, the Pro Sling Strap™ length dynamically adjusts, letting photographers quickly secure their DSLR camera in one moment and shoot in the next. Made with the highest-quality custom textiles, the Pro Sling Strap continues JOBY's focus on marrying design and engineering to create innovative products.

The feature that sets the Pro Sling Strap apart from other camera slings is its SpeedCinch™ pulley system, which lets pro photographers secure their camera close to their bodies to keep it safe and then instantly deploy it to take a shot. SpeedCinch™ has two modes: a fast-cinch mode for instant deployment and a locked mode where photographers can run, hike or bike without putting their DSLR in harm's way. For additional peace of mind, the Pro Sling Strap also comes with a camera tether.

"Many photographers, even pros, settle for stock camera straps which can be uncomfortable, bulky and unsafe," said Michael Jue, director of product design at JOBY. "We don't think a $4,000 camera should just hang on your shoulder like a messenger bag. Today's pro photographers shoot in more crowded, dynamic settings and need a camera strap that not only protects their camera, but also deploys quickly to capture the shot as it happens."

To build the Pro Sling Strap, JOBY searched globally for materials with the right combination of weight, size and durability. Using computer-controlled looms, JOBY created a custom textile for this new shoulder strap. The Pro Sling Strap compresses to a tiny footprint in a camera bag but is still extremely durable and supple. "As soon as photographers touch our camera strap, they'll feel the research and design that sets it apart," said Fred Polito, JOBY designer.

Retailing at $69.95 (US MSRP), the JOBY Pro Sling Strap is available in S-L and L-XXL sizes. JOBY camera straps are available for purchase at popular photography retailers, consumer electronics stores, and JOBY.com. With the addition of the Pro Sling Strap and JOBY's new Convertible Neck Strap™, a 2-in-1 neck strap that unclips to become an always-on wrist strap, JOBY has a full suite of innovative, adaptable camera straps for every photographer. To learn more about JOBY camera straps, visithttp://joby.com/camera-straps/.

New Polaroid Android-Powered Compact Interchangeable Lens Smart Camera Now On Sale

The Polaroid iM1836 Android™-powered compact interchangeable-lens smart camera, launched at CES 2013, is now available exclusively at Walmart and Amazon.com. The Polaroid iM1836 offers consumers D-SLR quality and flexibility but with the simplicity, affordability and convenience of a point-and-shoot camera allowing users to unleash their creativity, capture amazing still images and HD video, and share them instantly to their favorite social media network. Built into a compact 4/3 body with a sleek matte white finish, the iM1836 features a brilliant 3.5" touch screen LCD display to help capture the perfect image every time.

Interchangeable Lenses for Multiple Uses

Produced by Sakar International, an authorized Polaroid licensee, the Polaroid iM1836 comes standard with a 10-30mm optical zoom lens, perfect for capturing those every day family lifestyle images. An additional 500mm telephoto lens will be available in November to help users easily capture far away recital images or close ups of the winning goal, and a 50mm lens will be available in early 2014.

Easy to Use Android 4.1 OS

The Polaroid iM1836 runs on the intuitive Android 4.1 "Jelly Bean" operating system making capturing and sharing great shots with friends and family seamless. The camera features built-in peer-to-peer Wi-Fi and easy-to-use photo sharing apps installed which allow users to instantly upload and share stunning, professional-quality image creations via Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flikr, Vimeo and more, all at the touch of a button. In addition, the Polaroid iM1836 also features Google Play, the one-stop-shop for apps, movies, music, books and magazines, allowing consumers access to all of its over 600,000 apps and games.  Wi-Fi also pairs the iM1836 with any enabled device to upload images and video through a mobile phone, PC or even an iPod Touch device.

The Perfect Shot

With auto blink detection and auto face exposure, and a detachable flash, the Polaroid iM1836 ensures a great shot every time. In addition, the camera has wide-angle panoramic capability also built-in for breathtaking landscape photography without the added cost and weight of high-end equipment. When the action calls for more than just a still image, the iM1836 also captures 1080p HD video and, with built-in HDMI output, the compact device also doubles as a portable multimedia player—just connect it to any TV or monitor to view video or photo slide shows.

"This camera has generated tremendous buzz since it first debuted at CES this year," said Sakar President Jeff Saka. "Now, we're thrilled to see it hit store shelves, just in time for the holiday season, making it perfect for capturing precious family memories and for gift-giving."

The Polaroid iM1836 is available for $299 MSRP in select Walmart stores and online at Amazon.com.

Related articles

Nikon Sues Sakar Over iM1836 Android Camera

Nikon sues Sakar for infringement with Polaroid iM1836 Android camera

Nikon goes after Polaroid, says the iM1836 is a dead-ringer for the J1

GoPro Acquires General Things, Inc.

GoPro, makers of the world's best selling cameras, today announced the acquisition of General Things, Inc., a leading digital design and software studio based in San Francisco, California.  General Things has been a strategic partner of GoPro since 2010, and has been instrumental in helping the company advance its business backend and consumer-facing web development.

"The team at General Things has contributed tremendously to GoPro's success across the digital landscape. As GoPro continues to evolve, they will play a key role in helping us realize our mission to enable people to easily capture, manage and share engaging life-content," said Nicholas Woodman, founder and CEO of GoPro.

"GoPro and General Things have had a close and productive partnership over the last several years. As we learned more about GoPro's vision we became more and more excited to join them to help realize that vision," remarked Nick Hodulik, President and CEO. "We cannot thank enough, all of the wonderful customers, employees, partners and friends who have helped make General Things such a great success."

GoPro recently launched a new website, developed in partnership with General Things, to support the release of the new HERO3+ line of cameras. GoPro's previous HERO3 and now HERO3+ line of cameras are the best-selling cameras globally in both consumer* and professional markets. In addition, GoPro ranks as the second-largest camera accessory brand on a volume basis.

Panasonic Offers Ultra Compact DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless) Camera

Panasonic is announcing the new compact GM series line addition to its LUMIX Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) cameras.The new DMC-GM1 boasts not just its iconic and stylish compact profile; it boasts high functional performance with large Digital Live MOS Sensor based on the Micro Four Thirds system standard.The Lumix GM1 provides the perfect balance of style and photographic hybrid performance on-the-go with outstanding image quality.

True-to-life detail

The LUMIX GM1's 16 megapixel sensor delivers with a modern hybrid approach to image capture with both high quality HD movies and dynamic photos, and all with the simple press of a button.

Fashion-forward

The LUMIX GM1 represents the most compact and fashion forward looking LUMIX G camera to date. Ground-breaking micro technology design has enabled Panasonic to pack the very latest imaging technology into the camera's compact metallic alloy frame. Not only does this give the LUMIX GM1 an elegant look and feel, but the camera easily fits into your pocket and can be incorporated into day-to-day activities of any style-conscious enthusiast. Plus with many interchangeable micro lenses to choose from, creative options are nearly limitless.

Reflecting the sophisticated engineering beneath the surface, the LUMIX GM1's exterior offers a refined, classic style with aluminum dials and brushed metal, so you can be sure that the LUMIX GM1 will complement your style, whatever the occasion.

WiFi connectivity

WiFi connectivity enables the LUMIX GM1 to easily connect with smartphones and tablets. LUMIX GM1 allows you to post images and video online as soon as they've been taken. 

Coupled with the Panasonic Image App, which is available free of charge for Android and iOS operating systems from their respective app stores, wireless connectivity also enables Remote Shooting, allowing you to use your smartphone or tablet to act as a remote control for the LUMIX GM1 – ideal for taking group shots, or in situations where it isn't practical to shoot directly from your camera.

Total control and limitless creativity

The ideal camera for perfectionists and enthusiast photographers alike, the LUMIX GM1 offers a choice of full manual control, intelligent assistance for easy shooting, and a host of creative features.

A three-inch touch screen makes it easy to frame the perfect shot, set the focus and even trigger the shutter with a single touch. The LUMIX GM1 also features intelligent auto modes, providing point-and-shoot ease-of-use that doesn't compromise on image quality.

A range of 22 creative filters also allow you to add a personal touch to any image, transforming your favorite pictures into stylistic works of art. You can even create your own Time Lapse Shot or Stop-motion Animation to display your creativity.

When discretion is demanded, the silent shutter feature enables you to make the camera nearly silent and capture images in places such as during concerts or exhibitions where photographs are not allowed to be taken due to distracting 'clicks'.

Ready when you are

LUMIX GM1 is built for speed and mobility. With the camera's Light Speed autofocus, it will be ready and waiting to capture that perfect photo opportunity with stunning accuracy. Low-light autofocus will also provide outstanding speed in extreme low-light conditions, so you can continue to express your creativity when you only have the stars and streetlights to rely on.

Explore the full range of LUMIX G lenses with the new LUMIX G App for iPad, available via the iTunes App Store. The app lets you discover and explore the world of Panasonic LUMIX G Micro System Cameras.

KODAK Photo Service Allows Remote Ordering for Photo Printing

 Kodak Alaris has unveiled the KODAK Photo Service, which opens the company's worldwide installed base of KODAK Picture Kiosks and printers to content providers, creating new revenue streams for both them and retailers. More and more, consumers capture, edit and share their images in a digital environment. At the same time, consumers have limited options for quick, easy pathways to create physical output from this valuable content. This program removes barriers to printing by giving consumers an easy-to-use, proven way to print their favorite content from their favorite mobile, desktop and web applications. They simply choose what they wish to print, pick the most convenient retail location at which to pick-up products, and place their order, all from their favorite devices at home and on the road. Kodak Alaris formally introduced the program at the inaugural Mobile Photo Connect Conference in San Francisco.

"With a global brand, photo expertise and more than 100,000 touch points at retail locations, Kodak Alaris is in the unique position to create this new marketplace for content owners and retailers," said Darren Johnson, vice president and chief growth officer, Kodak Alaris' Personalized Imaging. "We bridge the gap between digital creativity and physical product and collectively bring exciting new offerings to the end-consumer. By combining their individual value propositions with our retail solutions into a comprehensive program, we will be able to create one-stop shop for consumers' personalized content needs."

Content Providers Gain Global Reach Through Proven Channel
By opening its KODAK Network Services APIs, Kodak Alaris gives content providers who join the KODAK Photo Service program immediate access to its global retail network. By providing this access, content providers can create a simple print-to-store option for their consumers to turn digital content into treasured physical content. Applications and content providers certified for the program include: CameraAce (TecAce); Chappters (iEvoke); Chip Photobook (Onpics); Comic Touch (Plasq); Perfect365 (ArcSoft); PicMix (Inovidea Magna Global); pixmix (Pixmix Ltd); PixStack Photo Editor (Recursify); Postify Print (Postify); Watch The Birdie (Albert Frischmann Consulting); and WedPics (Deja Mi).

For more information on joining the KODAK Photo Service program,  visit https://www.kodakdeveloper.com

olloclip Unveils 4-IN-1 Lens for iPhone and iPod touch

olloclip takes mobile photography further with the new 4-IN-1 quick-connect lens, making it more fun to capture and share life's experiences with the iPhone and iPod touch.

The olloclip 4-IN-1 lens system, the latest in the company's line of simple, easy-to-use mobile photography tools, offers fisheye, wide-angle, and two macro (10x and 15x magnification) lenses in less than one ounce -- with enhanced optics and sleek new design -- all for $69.99 USD. See the simplicity and beauty of the 4-IN-1 lens in this video.

The four new quick-change lenses are similar to those available with larger DSLR cameras, yet fit easily in a pocket and palm of the hand. Simple, elegant and unobtrusive, the olloclip 4-IN-1 lens connects to the iPhone within seconds. With the fisheye and wide-angle lenses on opposite sides, selecting a lens is as simple as flipping the lens over. The macro lenses are cleverly revealed by unscrewing either the fisheye or wide-angle lens.

The olloclip 4-IN-1 lens works with all favorite apps in photo and video mode, making it easy for sports and travel enthusiasts, amateur and professional photographers to get exactly the shots and videos they want.

Building on the success of the original olloclip 3-in-1 lens, the olloclip 4-IN-1 lens solution is designed from aircraft-grade aluminum and precision-ground, coated glass optics -- but with the specific field-of-view, light-control and resolution characteristics of the iPhone 5s' eight-megapixel camera in mind. The wide-angle and fisheye lenses have been improved to deliver sharper images, edge to edge, with less lens distortion and enhanced clarity overall. Additionally, the 10x macro lens has a focus distance of about 18mm, allowing users to get more light on the subject (as compared to its predecessor, the 3-IN-1 olloclip lens) and allowing more depth of field so that more of the image is in focus.

"We wanted to enhance the new features of the iPhone 5s camera, including the five-element lens, autofocus matrix metering and dynamic local tone map that ensures more true-to-life color, while also complementing the iPhone's aesthetic look," said Patrick O'Neill, founder and president (CEO) of olloclip. "We believe we've succeeded in creating an elegant, pocket-size product that any iPhone user will be proud of and that any iPhone photographer will be inspired to use to create great art."

Rear View Safety Encourages College Students To Use Backup Cameras

Rear View Safety is an online retailer specializing in the manufacture and sale of backup camera systems for drivers of any age and temperament. Units can be affixed to cars, trucks, and utility vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Young drivers preparing to embark on their first road trip with their college friends are encouraged to use the technology to promote driving safety and well-being.

Blind spots are distracting to all drivers, but especially so for people sharing their car with a group of friends. Drivers can ensure everyone in the car and those sharing the road on such a long journey remain a bit safer by adding an affordable rear view camera to the vehicle.

"Going on your first road trip with brand new friends is an extremely exciting experience. Whether you're hauling yourselves across state lines to follow your favorite band, or just driving a few hours out into the wilderness for a camping excursion, using backup cameras will ensure it is a safe and fun trip for everyone," said David Newman, an Account Manager from Rear View Safety.

The RVS-770613 is an optimal rear view camera system with a simple one camera setup. The unit includes a 7" Digital LCD monitor easily mounted to the dashboard, along with a 130 degree backup camera that is both water- and shock-resistant with a 100G shock rating, the highest rating in the industry. It can be purchased for $249.99 and will greatly increase the safety measures available to all vehicles.

Brother Introduces New Line Of Compact, Multi-Page Scanners

Brother International Corporation today announced the launch of the ImageCenter™ ADS-1500W, the flagship model in its new series of compact scanners for small office/home office (SOHO) and small business users. With the introduction of this series of compact desktop scanners, Brother now offers a complete lineup of scanners including newly redesigned mobile scanner models and an award-winning series of workgroup scanners.

Brother created the ADS-1500W to be a tremendous value for business customers, combining the economical price point and size of mobile scanners with a variety of advanced functions typically reserved for more costly desktop workgroup scanners. The ADS-1500W has a compact footprint of only 11.2" wide and 4.1" deep, but is packed with advanced scanning features including simplex/duplex color scan speeds of up to 18 ppm, a 20-sheet capacity auto document feeder, and web connectivity. Plus, the ADS-1500W is compatible with Windows®, Mac® and Linux® operating systems, so it can be used in almost any small business, workgroup or home office environment.

The ADS-1500W can connect to a wireless network and the 2.7" color TouchScreen display lets users scan directly to popular cloud services including FACEBOOK™, PICASA WEB ALBUMS™, FLICKR™, GOOGLE DRIVE™, EVERNOTE®, BOX and SKYDRIVE. Users can access a variety of scan-to destinations such FTP, network, e-mail server, USB flash drive as well as scan directly to compatible mobile devices using the Brother iPrint&Scan app.

To address the ever-growing need for scanning, digitizing and sharing documents, the ADS-1500W includes a complete suite of scanning software including PDF conversion software, a desktop document manager, as well as business card management programs. The ADS-1500W also includes new BR-Receipts software that enables users to scan receipts and then export receipt data to Microsoft Excel®, Quickbooks® software or Quicken® software. Additionally, the ADS-1500W features advanced scanning options such as image optimization with automatic deskew, blank page removal, auto image rotation and background removal to help save scanning time and maximize productivity. The ADS-1500W comes with a one-year limited warranty along with free phone support for the life of the product.

"With the introduction of the ADS-1500W, Brother demonstrates its firm commitment to the scanner market, creating a complete lineup of products that help bolster productivity, easily integrate with leading operating systems and business software, and provide outstanding value for home, SOHO, and workgroup scanner users," said Steve Feldstein, Director of Marketing for Brother Laser and Scanner products. "Our new compact scanners truly deliver the best of both the mobile and desktop scanner categories, furthering our position as an industry leader in the scanner market."

In addition to the flagship model ADS-1500W ($299), Brother will be also introducing the ADS-1000W ($249). Both are scheduled for an October 2013 release.