The information contained in this news release applies only to the Japanese market.

Olympus Imaging Corporation (President: Masaharu Okubo) is pleased to announce the introduction of the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 70-300mm F4.0-5.6 lens, a new designed-for-digital super telephoto zoom lens for Four Thirds System digital SLR cameras. The new lens is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in October 2007.

ZUIKO DIGITAL interchangeable lenses are specifically designed to maximize the performance potential of the image sensors in Four Thirds System digital SLR cameras. The newly announced ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 70-300mm F4.0-5.6 lens is a super telephoto zoom that boasts a focal length range equivalent to 140-600mm on a 35mm camera.

Previous lenses offering 35mm equivalent focal lengths of 600mm or more were invariably large, heavy, and expensive, making it difficult for most users to enjoy the benefits of super telephoto shooting. The new ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 70-300mm F4.0-5.6, however, takes advantage of the Four Thirds System's high mobility and cost-performance to bring these benefits to a wide range of users. Although boasting a zoom range equivalent to 140-600mm on a 35mm camera, it is only 127mm long, weighs 620g, and is affordably priced (Japan MSRP: ¥47,500 [¥49,875 incl. sales tax]).

When mounted on a digital SLR camera such as the Olympus E-510, the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 70-300mm F4.0-5.6 maximizes the benefits of the camera's built-in image stabilization system and makes it easy for users to enjoy handheld shooting in the 600mm-equivalent super telephoto range.

The lens is outstandingly versatile, with three ED lens elements to ensure sharp, clear imaging. Maximum magnification of 0.5x (equivalent to 1x on a 35mm camera) is also offered for superb tele-macro performance (in manual focus mode).

Launch Information

Product Name	MSRP	Launch Date
ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 70-300mm F4.0-5.6	¥47,500(¥49,875 incl. sales tax)	October 2007

Main Features

1. Four Thirds System Mobility for Versatile Super Telephoto Shooting
   Despite offering super telephoto performance equivalent to 140-600mm on a 35mm camera, the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 70-300mm F4.0-5.6 is only 127mm long and weighs 620g. Compact enough to enable handheld shooting at the equivalent of 600mm, it is a super telephoto zoom that significantly expands shooting opportunities with its easy handling and outstanding portability.
2. Excellent Close-Focusing Capability
   In manual focus mode, close-up shooting from the minimum focusing distance of 96cm is possible across the entire zoom range. Full-on macro shooting with maximum magnification of 0.5x (equivalent to 1x on a 35mm camera) is possible, and the wide zoom range allows framing and composition to be controlled without any need for the photographer to change position.
   In autofocus mode, close-up shooting from 1.2m is possible across the entire zoom range. Both focusing modes offer plenty of working distance, making this an excellent lens for taking macro photos of fenced-in flowers or easily startled insects that are difficult for the photographer to get close to.
3. ED Lens Elements for Superb Imaging Performance
   Three ED lens elements minimize the chromatic aberration that tends to occur at long focal lengths, assuring consistently superb image quality across the entire zoom range.
   Other advanced technologies for high image quality include multi-coating to reduce ghosting and flaring in backlight, and the use of a circular iris to achieve smooth, soft, background defocusing.