Digital cameras have swiftly become a multi-billion dollar market. Despite the current economic slowdown and declining unit prices, we expect global sales revenue for digital cameras to more than double over the next four years. A major contributing factor will be the emergence of "network cameras." Digital cameras equipped with wireless communications will drive photography into new markets. This report provides a wealth of information on digital camera technology trends, as well as detailed market forecasts for the largest markets in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

Additional conclusions found in Digital Cameras: Markets, Technologies & Opportunities:

1. Digital photography will gradually replace traditional photography. Digital photography avoids the need for film and film developing; makes it possible to view recorded images immediately; allows pictures to be shared worldwide via the Internet; and enables PC-based manipulation and enhancement.
2. The digital photography market will more than double in the next four years, growing to over $37 billion. The largest market for digital cameras (all types) is North America; Japan is second largest for digital still cameras and Europe is second largest for digital video cameras. The opportunities cut across existing consumer and professional markets, as well as new markets for network-based cameras.
3. The Internet creates new opportunities for archiving and accessing images and scenes. The time is right as digital photography, 'Net-based storage and 3G wireless solutions are all falling into place. Those who develop more cost-effective ways of storing and transmitting images (particularly compression techniques) will be big winners.
4. Wireless technology will facilitate transmission, storage, display, and printing of images. Third generation wireless networks will allow digital cameras with minimal memory to take picture after picture. Wireless LANs enable sophisticated security systems for homes and small offices. Short-range wireless technology, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, will let users beam images to desktop devices for display and printing.
5. CMOS sensors will replace conventional CCD arrays. The integration of CMOS sensors and advanced ASIC image processors will drive prices down rapidly. Expect digital still cameras with 1.3 megapixels for just $140 to appear on the market soon. PDAs, notebook PCs, and mobile phones with built-in digital cameras will become increasingly common.