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 FULL PRESS RELEASE
J.D. Power and Associates Reports:
Consumers Find Improved Functionality and Speed in Digital Cameras, Even as Prices Fall
Kodak and Sony Lead the Industry in Satisfying Digital Camera Owners
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA (August 16, 2005) Consumers find improved functionality and speed in new digital cameras on the market, even as digital camera prices fall, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Digital Camera Satisfaction StudySM released today.
The study finds digital camera buyers are increasingly satisfied with the functionality and speed of the cameras they purchase, particularly with cameras in the lower price segments. The gap in terms of camera performance between high and low-priced cameras has shrunk considerably compared to 2004.
"This is a great time for consumers to buy a digital camera, as improving technology and falling prices make digital cameras more accessible than ever to the average buyer," said Ron Conlin, partner at J.D. Power and Associates. "Buyers are getting more camera for their money, and this is clearly reflected in satisfaction ratings. The challenge to camera manufacturers is to offer consumers products that are versatile, yet easy to use, since customers who are most satisfied with their current camera are also most likely to be loyal to the brand in the future."
The study measures satisfaction of digital camera owners across four price segments: $199 or less; $200-$399; $400-$599; and $600 or more. Overall satisfaction is based on performance across four factors: performance, connectivity, cost and appearance.
Kodak ranks highest in the $199 or less price segment and, for the second consecutive year, in the $200-$399 segment. Kodak experiences considerable gains in customer satisfaction ratings in both segments, receiving high ratings from owners in performance, connectivity and cost. Kodak also receives the highest ratings in the $200-$399 segment for appearance.
Sony ranks highest in the $400-$599 and $600 or more segments, with very strong satisfaction improvements. Sony performs particularly well in both segments in appearance, performance and connectivity and leads the $600 or more segment in cost.
The study finds that DSLRs (digital single-lens reflex cameras with interchangeable lenses) make up the fastest-growing segment in the market. While particularly popular among serious photographers, these high-end models are increasingly attracting mainstream consumers.
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