The concept is based on predictions about 2030 (20 years ahead) in terms of progress in:
- Sensor technology
- Optical zoom lens technology
- Ergonomy and control
Moore's law would indeed suggest 10,000 MP sensors by 2030. But this ignores the physics involved. A pixel smaller than about 1µm isn't capturing enough (read thousands of) photons even at daylight for a good quality. And 10,000 million 1µm pixels mean a 100x100 mm^2 large frame sensor size
I predict medium format compact cameras with 1,000 MP by the year 2030.
A superzoom from (in 35mm language) say 25 to 5000mm (200x) will be feasible for low resolution like HDTV. But not high resolution still cameras. Because (read above) they require a large image circle and such lenses would be HUGE! Certainly not like the Canon concept. Yet another reason why high end still and video cameras will stay different kind of beasts. Moreover, the lenses by 2030 will differ from lenses in 2010 as they now differ from lenses of 1990. Which still sell high on ebay...
The ergonomy doesn't make sense. By 2030, I rather predict digital end caps optimized for each lens featuring a (removable) EVF where everything is controlled on a virtual large screen. This will look like a spotting scope now, with optional grip. If the EVF isn't attached wirelessly to the lens which some photographers by 2030 will prefer, other's won't. The tilt-and-swivel discussion by 2030
So, all in all, the Expo 2010 concept shown by Canon is a pure marketing gig almost insulting better informed people's intelligence. ALmost looks like the marketing dep was left alone with the task with no help from engineering
The active content wall screens however are a very accurate prediction (AFAIK) and will boost the demand for crazingly high resolution pictures. Start taking GP panorama images now as by 2030, there will be a shortage of vintage GP photography
Also, the Canon Expo presentation was very well executed
Last edited by falconeye; 07-12-2010 at 06:05 AM.