Canon 2006 Annual Report Download - page 34

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32
CAMERAS
We will leverage our 70
years of accumulated
know-how to expand
the camera market and
lead the creation of a
more abundant imaging
culture.
In fiscal 2006, Canon further reinforced
its overwhelming No. 1 position in the
global market for compact digital cam-
eras and digital single lens reflex (SLR)
cameras. Total sales volume of the
Company’s digital still cameras surpassed
20 million units in 2006.
Canon shipped a record 2.5 million
digital SLR cameras in 2006 and can
boast the largest share of a market that
continues to expand. In compact cam-
eras, 2006 was a year that saw further
evolution of our photography culture,
with Canon not only offering such
conventional improvements as increased
pixel counts and boosted optical zoom
performance, but also focusing on
enhancements that allow anyone to
easily shoot winning photos for greater
enjoyment of the picture-taking experi-
ence. In video camcorders, the Company
released the high-definition HV10, lever-
aging Canon’s imaging strengths.
As we move into the high-definition
television (HDTV) age, Canon will continue
to pursue the ultimate in image quality,
from still images to movies for both input
and output devices. Specifically, Canon
will forge ahead with the independent
development of all key components for
digital SLR cameras, including lenses,
imaging sensors, and image processors.
We will utilize this strength to spur tech-
nological innovation in the basic capabili-
ties of cameras and create value-added
products. Canon will raise productivity and
cost competitiveness through in-house
production and the utilization of IT net-
works. To increase the sales volume of
digital cameras, we will expand our push
into the BRIC and other emerging
economies to complement existing opera-
tions in Japan, Western Europe and the
United States. In addition, Canon intends
to boost sales and profits in such new
business areas as compact photo printers,
LCD projectors and network cameras.
Images will always have a major
influence in shaping our culture and are
constantly changing. Marking our 70th
anniversary in 2007, we will draw from
the know-how accumulated over our
history to contribute to the further expan-
sion of the camera market and to take a
leading role in creating a more abundant
imaging culture. We will work tirelessly to
be the overwhelming No. 1 brand in all of
our existing camera products.
Tomonori Iwashita
Chief Executive, Image Communication
Products Operations
Digital SLR camera