Panasonic's new, cheap, auto-everything compact camera

(Credit: Panasonic)

If the announcement of the new FS-series cameras from Panasonic wasn't enough for you, the company announced the Lumix DMC-LS85, too. If you have a penchant for digital cameras that run on AA batteries (and I know you people are out there), you'll want to pay attention.

The DMC-LS85 does in fact run on two AA batteries (good for about 270 shots using alkalines, 550 on NiMHs). It also has a 4x f2.8-5.9 33-132mm-equivalent lens with optical image stabilization--a rarity in a compact camera for its price of $119.

It also features Panasonic's Intelligent Auto Mode (iA), which along with the Mega O.I.S I mentioned a second ago includes Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, and Face Detection.

You'll be able to stick one in your pocket this April in a choice of silver, black, and pink.

[alegr]

Don't know why people fall for NiMH batteries... Lithium just keeps going and going and going... While with AA I had to always juggle those.

[carguy622]

Maybe because NiMH batteries are reusable hundreds of times, and cost a lot less over the long term, while being good from an environmental standpoint.