The Canon PowerShot A560 is another 7.1 megapixel compact camera similar to the A570IS also released today.

It features a 7.1 megapixel CCD sensor, Digic III processor, 4x optical zoom (35-140mm) with an aperture of f/2.6 to F/5.5.

The Canon PowerShot A560 IS features a 2.5 inch LCD display, ISO of up to 1600, print/share buttons (on camera), face detection AF/FE and FE as well as the normal array of scene modes and connectivity (including PictBridge). It's powered by two AA batteries.

The Canon PowerShot A560 IS measures 91.2 x 64.0 x 43.1 mm and weighs 165 grams.

Canon PowerShot A560 Press Release

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, 22 February, 2007: Canon today announces the launch of the PowerShot A570 IS and PowerShot A560, two 7.1 Megapixel additions to Canon’s PowerShot A-Series range of affordable, family friendly cameras. The cameras are powered by DIGIC III, which introduces Face Detection Technology, automatic Red-Eye Correction in Playback and ISO 1600 to the PowerShot A-Series for the first time.

The PowerShot A560, a direct replacement for the popular PowerShot A540, features a full set of automatic functions for intuitive ease of use. The PowerShot A570 IS adds an optical Image Stabilizer to the lens, full manual control and a comprehensive range of accessories, giving users the choice to simply ‘point and shoot’ or explore the creative side of photography.

“The PowerShot A570 IS and PowerShot A560 bring the leading Canon technologies powered by DIGIC III within the reach of all consumers,” said Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “These two advanced cameras have features with the potential to vastly improve the quality of everyday photography.”

The PowerShot A570 IS and PowerShot A560 feature:

* 7.1 MP CCD image sensor
* 4x optical zoom lens (35mm equivalent: 35–140mm f/2.6 W–f/5.5 T)
* Optical Image Stabilizer (PowerShot A570 IS only)
* DIGIC III image processor and iSAPS
* Face Detection AF/AE/FE
* ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto
* Popular Special Scene modes on Mode dial
* 2.5” LCD screen with optical viewfinder
* Lens accessories (PowerShot A570 IS only)
* PictBridge and Print/Share button

DIGIC III

Both cameras feature Canon’s own DIGIC III image processor. This smart, efficient processor enables features such as Face Detection AF/AE/FE and advanced Noise Reduction Technology. The improved Face Detection system uses new algorithms to detect faces further from the camera than ever before. Detecting up to nine faces, Face Detection AF/AE determines if a face is the main subject of the scene and sets the appropriate focus and exposure, if the flash is activated Face Detection FE sets the flash level so that the face is correctly exposed. The system also enables easy Red-Eye Correction in Playback, automatically detecting and removing unsightly red eye to leave a natural looking portrait without the need for a PC or editing software.

DIGIC III with advanced Noise Reduction Technology makes possible the use of High sensitivity ISO 1600 – another first for the PowerShot A-Series. High ISO speeds are useful for capturing scenes in low light conditions without risking the loss of the scene’s ambiance by using a flash. High ISO Auto prioritises higher ISO settings to enable the use of faster shutter speeds – reducing the risk of blurred images in dark or fast-moving scenes.
Ease of use

DIGIC III is complemented by a range of technologies that ensure high quality photography with minimal effort. 4x optical zoom lenses incorporate Canon precision optics to get the best results from the 7.1 Megapixel sensors. The PowerShot A570 IS features optical Image Stabilizer technology, ensuring shake-free images in low light conditions and at full zoom. Both cameras feature a 2.5” LCD screen, making it easier to frame tricky shots or share image playback with friends.

To aid quick and easy access three popular scene modes – Kids and Pets, Indoor and Night Snapshot – have been moved to the Mode dial. The PowerShot A560 has 14 shooting modes to cover many shooting situations, including Beach, Snow and Fireworks scene modes. The PowerShot A570 IS adds Underwater mode – for use with the optional waterproof case accessory – and creative options that enable manual control of aperture and shutter speed settings. In total, the camera offers users 19 shooting modes. The creative potential of the PowerShot A570 IS can be extended with a comprehensive range of accessories that includes telephoto, wide and close-up lens converters, and slave flash

Canon PowerShot A560 Reviews

CNET has a review of the Canon PowerShot A560 and writes, "With quick performance and decent photos, the Canon PowerShot A560 makes a solid budget camera. It doesn't boast a bevy of special features and isn't particularly small or light, but it's a strong choice if you don't want to spend a lot for your snapshots. If your caffeine-ridden, shaky hands often make your pictures blurry, you should note that the next model up in Canon's line, the A570IS, is very similar to this one, but also includes optical image stabilization. ... This camera's solid performance can help you forget that it doesn't have many bells or whistles."

Steve's Digicams has a review of the Canon PowerShot A560 and writes, "I was very pleased with Canon's PowerShot A560. If offers great image quality, class leading performance, and has an exposure mode for everyone, all with a very appealing price tag of only US$229 or less! The only downfall to this model, or any "A" series model for that matter, is the slow flash recharge time. That said, I feel this will make a great camera for kids going off to collage, proud parents (or grandparents), or the eBay junkie of the family, etc. Be sure to check out the our reviews of other 2007 Canon models, like the Powershot SD1000, Powershot A550 or the 5-megapixel PowerShot A460."

Cameras.co.uk has a review of the Canon Powershot A560 and writes, "Taking the price of the camera into account I think the Powershot A560 performed well in my tests. It was able to handle sunny conditions, photos taken in the shade and also photos taken indoors where the light was lower. Looking at the outdoor scenic shots I can see that this camera produces sharper shots than the majority of simple, point and shoot cameras do. ... I guess I would describe the Canon Powershot A560 as a starter camera with extra quality. You do have to pay more than with a true entry level model and while you may not get that much more in terms of features the picture quality is clearly a step up."

Imaging Resource has a review of the Canon PowerShot A560 and writes, "The Canon PowerShot A560 is an excellent basic digital camera for all-around usage. While not as small as many subcompacts, it fits in most pants pockets or larger purses, and avoids some of the optical, image quality, and performance trade-offs that are often found in subcompact models. It offers a lot of capability (and great looking images) for the money, and a range of features that should suit beginning through intermediate photographers very well. All in all, it's a great entry-level camera, but one with at least some features to grow into as your photographic skills mature."