Canon unveils new photo printers

TOKYO: In keeping with its theme of “photo perfection for life”, digital imaging major Canon Inc today launched its latest family of PIXMA printers consisting of eight PIXMA photo printers and five All-in-Ones.

The products are driven by innovations developed by the company's R&D center in Tokyo that are proven to enhance the photo quality of prints, promise a longer shell-life for photos (as much as 100 years), increase print speed and lower cost for the consumer.

Addressing the media during a tour at the Canon headquarters in Tokyo, Dr Takao Yamamoto, deputy senior general manager, Inkjet Supply Material development center, Canon, said, “It is not merely digital cameras but also a host of devices like mobile phones, PCs and audio visual printing demands that are driving the demand for better photo printing among consumers.”

Around 33% of Canon's $31.5 billion revenue is derived from the printing segment.

The new photo printing products are expected to release in India in October this year.

Speaking to CyberMedia News, Melvyn Ho, VP, consumer imaging and information division, South and Southeast Asia region, Canon said, “ In the next three years, we have expectations of doubling our current sales from India.” Ho said that Canon had achieved number one position in many Asian countries such as Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia but is still number two in India. “We hope to change that by focusing our activities on the India market.”

He added that Canon is gunning for sales of $1.5 billion from South and Southeast Asia this year and $1.65 billion in 2008. Last year, the sales in the region closed at $1.3 billion.

Ho said that the company would be entering the video display space in 2007 by launching SED TV panels and OLED (Organic Light Emitting displays). Canon has started a JV company along with Toshiba to produce these displays, with Canon holding 51% stake.