Canon Unveils PowerShot SX500/SX160 IS Ultrazooms

A lot of familiar technology has been rolled into the SX500 and SX160, including a Smart Auto mode utilizing a full 32 individual scene mode to help hands-off shooters find the perfect exposure. Both cameras offer 720p HD video and fixed 3.0-inch LCDs. They're both slated for availability later this fall, and will sell for considerably less than Canon's current full-fledged SX40 HS ultrazoom.

Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
The SX500 does not replace any current PowerShot model. It introduces a new SX series camera with a big 30x zoom lens and a more pocketable form factor than the DSLR-like SX40. It offers a 16 megapixel CCD sensor (despite an industry trend toward higher-powered backside-illuminated CMOS sensors) and covers an equivalent focal range of 24-720mm. A Zoom Framing Assist function, carried over from previous PowerShot models, will help users quickly reach a pre-determined focal length. The camera is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS
Also using a 16 megapixel CCD sensor, the SX160's 16x optical zoom covers an equivalent of 28-448mm. Like the SX500, it offers improved AF acquisition speed. Canon claims these cameras will focus 32% faster than previous models. The SX160 will be powered by two AA batteries and will be sold in black and red. It will replace the SX150 ultrazoom that's currently in Canon's lineup.
Pricing and Availability
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS will cost $329.99 and the PowerShot SX160 IS will sell for an estimated $229.99 when they reach the market in September 2012.