Strengthening Existing Businesses: Cameras
With regard to interchangeable-lens cameras, we will work to improve the performance of image sensors while expanding our lineup of camera bodies and renewing our interchangeable lens offerings.
As for compact cameras, the explosive popularity of smartphones is starting to eat into the low-end compact camera segment. In response to smartphones, which offer advantages in terms of network connectivity, we are improving the communication features of cameras to make them more attractive. On the other hand, the increase in smartphones has led to steady growth in the number of users becoming more familiar with photography as well as a significant increase in the number of photos being taken. What is important now is how to lead these users, who can now appreciate the enjoyment of taking pictures, to compact cameras or interchangeable-lens cameras. We are not looking to just compete against smartphones, we would also like for them to co-exist. One such answer is the PowerShot N, which we launched the other day. Introducing new concepts like this is how we will address this challenge.
