Casio EXILIM Z-16 12MP digicam creeps in under $100

Casio's second digicam of the day is an altogether more mainstream model than their Hybrid GPS EX-H20G, though it carries a suitably budget price tag too.  The Casio EXILIM Z-16 is a compact 12-megapixel shooter with a 3x optical zoom and 848 x 480 video capture.

On the back is a 2.7-inch LCD, while storage combines 14.9MB of internal memory with an SD/SDHC card slot.  There's an auto mode which analyses the scene and adjusts the settings accordingly, together with face detection and optical image stabilization.

Nothing too dramatic, then, but Casio aren't asking too much for the EXILIM Z-16.  It'll drop later this month for $99.99.

Press Release:

CASIO INTRODUCES SLEEK ENTRY-LEVEL EXILIM Z-16

Stylish Design Blends with Easy Functionality for Outstanding Pictures

DOVER, NJ, September 20, 2010 — Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., announced today the addition of the entry-level EX-Z16 to its EXILIM® family of digital cameras. Marrying Casio's sleek design with a host of easy-to-use capabilities – including Easy Mode, YouTube™ capture and a simplified user interface – the EX-Z16 makes taking great pictures amazingly simple.

This newest member of the EXILIM family boasts superb 12MP image quality, as well as 3x optical and 4x digital zoom capabilities. The Easy Mode interface offers a simplified menu, dedicated movie button, and a YouTube capture feature that enables users to record and share live-action videos with just a few clicks.

"We wanted to round out our Exilim digital camera line to include simplified functionality that is beneficial to consumers, and the EX-Z16 definitely achieves this goal," said Toshi Iguchi, Senior General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Casio America Inc. "The EX-Z16 doesn't just take outstanding photos and videos, it captures beautiful, natural and organic shots that you'll share and cherish with friends and family."

EX-Z16 Features

Sleek, Stylish Design

Casio EXILIM has redefined digital camera "style" by introducing the world's first super-slim and sleek camera models. The new EX-Z16 is no different, embodying the smooth design and functionality that EXILIM is known for. It fits perfectly in the palm of your hand and features smooth lines and an array of beautiful colors to choose from.

New Simplified Easy Mode User Interface Makes Taking Great Pics a Snap

Even the most inexperienced photographer can take gorgeous photos with the EX-Z16's Easy Mode User Interface. The only settings you have to adjust on our 2.7-inch LCD screen are image size, flash and self timer – the camera does the rest! Best of all, your options are displayed on a simplified menu, making your adjustments quick and easy. Add in automatic Face Detection technology that automatically provides optimum focus — even in less than optimal lighting — and the EX-Z16 can help you take the best shots of your life.

Integrated YouTube Capture Mode for Easy Video Sharing

This feature enables you to easily record family moments or fun times with friends. Video is optimized to a web-friendly 640 x 480, H.264 format for quick transfer to YouTube, through Casio's YouTube Uploader software. Then simply share with a few clicks of your mouse.

Big, Bright LCD Screen Brings Your Scenes to Life

Our 2.7-inch LCD (230K) screen provides an increased brightness and higher contrast, which gives you better image contrast, even in bright light situations. The wide 180 degree viewing angle makes it easy to line up your shots from any perspective, ensuring that what you see is what you get.

BEST SHOT Function Produces Beautiful Photos with Just a Touch

The EX-Z16 also offers BEST SHOT technology, which automatically analyzes your scene and applies the best settings for capturing perfect images and video. This feature applies face detection, auto focus and exposure settings to a total of 23 types of scenes, offering optimal configuration in just about any setting or situation.

The EX-Z16 will be on store shelves in September and retail for $99.99.