CES 2008: Kodak has used CES 2008 to launch a phalanx of compact digital cameras. All feature the ability to output their stills in both 720p and 1080i HD formats. Here we look at the M763, M863, M893 and M1033, the last of which is able to record 720p30 HD video. (This may not be as fast as 720p60 or as high res as 1080i, but it's still a big jump from the VGA that is standard issue on most compacts).

Editorial:

Kodak refreshes range with launch of the Easyshare M1033, Easyshare M763, Easyshare M863 and Easyshare M893 IS compacts.

The range-topping M1033 (pictured in its "bronze" form, colors vary between markets) is a 10MP compact with 3X optical zoom. It has a 3 inch (7.6 cm), screen designed to have a wide viewing angle, so it can be used in "just about any environement.," according to the manufacturer. Impressively, the M1033 can record 720i HD format video (and compress it as MPEG-4) - that's 1280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps. It features a 35-105mm (in 35 equivalent terms) lens and up to ISO 3200 at full resolution. Stills can be displayed at 1080i resolution (1920 x 1080) using the Easyshare HDTV Dock available seperately. It is expected to be available in March 2008.

Further down the range come the M893 IS, an 8.1MP ultra-compact with a 34-102mm (35mm equivalent), f/2.9-5.2 optically stabilized lens. It can display its stills at 720p or 1080i but cannot shoot HD video. Sensitivity rises to ISO 1600. It is expected to arrive in April.

The M863 and M763 are 8.2 and 7.0MP, 3X optical zoom compacts. Both feature HD playback of stills and record at up to ISO 1600. They are expected to arrive in January and February 2008 respectively.

In common with the latest additions to its 'V' and 'Z' ranges, the company says the latest models are designed to fit with Kodak's "you press the button, we do the rest," ethos.