EOS Series Undergo Continuous Improvements

During the latter half of the 1990s, new EOS models were marketed successively. The "EOS-3," introduced in November 1998, was equipped with the 45-point Area AF, 21-zone evaluative metering sensor linked to the focusing points, and possessed the durability and reliability comparable to the "EOS-1N." The "EOS-Kiss III," introduced in April 1999, showed high-performance, compactness and lightness that far exceeded the expectations for a entry model. These activities culminated into the “EOS-1V," which was unveiled in April 2000. The “EOS-1V" has caused a sensation as the ultimate model with full-fledged capabilities, representing the standard in next-generation 35mm AF SLR cameras. Canon, as the leading manufacturer of the 35mm AF SLR camera in the world, continues to accelerate its own and unique technological revolution.

Strengthening of Advanced Photo System Lines

In Advanced Photo System cameras, there have been several variations, one of which was the "EOS IX5" Advanced Photo System SLR camera which combined the basic performance of the "New EOS Kiss" with the Advanced Photo System features. Another example is the unique "IXY D5" camera, which is water resistant to a depth of 5m.

Digital Image Media for the Next Century

The advances in digital cameras and digital video camcorders have been breathtaking. Canon launched the "EOS D2000" digital SLR camera in 1998 for business use, together with the "PowerShot A5" and "PowerShot Pro70" digital cameras for general users. In May 2000, Canon introduced the digital version of the best-selling "IXY" Advanced Photo System camera, the "IXY DIGITAL."

In the digital video camcorder field, the "MV-1," Canon's first digital video camcorder made its debut in 1997_2000. Following the "MV-1" in 1999, a compact, lightweight, and high image quality “PV1” was released. The advanced features of "PV1" were inherited by the "FV10" introduced in May 2000, which was designed for family use. For the advanced amateurs as well as for the professional videographers, Canon introduced "XL1" in February 1998. It allowed the use of interchangeable lenses. Because of its functionality, its rigidity, and its proven reliability, the "XL1" was adopted as the official digital video camcorder of the National Aeronautics and Space Agency (NASA) and traveled to outer space on board the space shuttle.