Olympus unveils µ Tough-6010 rugged compact

From adrenaline packed days to activities with the family, the Olympus µ Tough-6010 is ready for action. Whether enjoying a day at the beach or out carving on the slopes, this 12 Megapixel powerhouse is the ultimate companion. Shockproof, waterproof, and freezeproof just like the rest of the µ Tough series, it ensures extreme fun. Aspiring artists can even find their fill with a new set of Magic Filters. Featuring a 3.6x wide optical zoom, the µ Tough-6010 is of course also packed with the latest in Olympus opto-digital technology. Boasting everything from Dual Image Stabilisation to Tap Control, it was created to ensure photographic peace of mind while enjoying life’s many adventures. Available in a striking choice of colours, the latest µ Tough will be available from July 2009 for a retail price of £299.99

With the Olympus µ Tough-6010, photographers never have to worry about going where a camera can’t take the knocks. In addition to being freezeproof to -10 C, it is waterproof to 3m (according to IEC standard publication 529 IPX8) and provides shockproof protection against drops of up to 1.5m(equivalent to MIL Standard (Olympus test conditions). The versatile 3.6x wide optical zoom (28-102mm equivalent to a 35mm camera) seen on the TIPA award winning µ Tough-8000 is also on board for great group photos or close-ups of distant subjects. To make those shots even more memorable, the µ Tough-6010 now features inspiring Magic Filters. By applying Pin Hole, for example, images will seem to have been taken with a traditional pin hole camera. Pop Art, Fish-Eye, and Sketch add interesting effects of their own. What’s more, Dual Image Stabilisation keeps images blur-free even in rough and tumble environments. And so you’re always ready for that perfect shot, a practical Tap Control mode gives even gloved-hands easy access to a range of settings which can be viewed on the 6.9cm/2.7” HyperCrystal III LCD. The display’s new “triple coating” protects it against reflection, scratches, and moisture to ensure comfortable shooting on the ski slopes and under water.

The Tough-6010 also boasts a range of clever functions. Delivering perfect images of once in a lifetime moments i-Auto Mode, for example, automatically adjusts camera settings to one of five recognised commonly-used scenes. In addition, Advanced Face Detection Technology detects up to 16 faces for consistent quality across group portraits. And for a flawless look under tough conditions, Beauty Mode is on hand to smooth out imperfections and leave subjects looking refreshed.

The shockproof, waterproof, and freezeproof µ Tough-6010 is a sturdy and reliable companion that will meet any challenge. It arrives in stores in July 2009 along with a new software version: Olympus Master 2.2 for more image management and editing possibilities.