According to research company BCN about DSLR domestic sale share of July 3rd week in Japan, SONY recorded 35.4% market share. Although the pace has fallen, we are still seeing SONY in 5 weeks to August 3rd week, guaranteeing a good 24.2% market. Although not as good as CANON, who command a 34.6% market share, but took the second spot over the Nikon, who has 24% market. Panasonic high end camera is squeezed to the 1% market.

For SONY, the demand for the a100 camera is higher than supply. its popularity in Japan is due to the IS built-in function (CCD-based image stabilizer) as well as its capability to use old Minolta lens. Pricing is also attractive to existing Minolta users.

CANON announced on the 24th a new beginner’s class DSLR “digital X” model (substance 90,000 Yen “of EOS Kiss” series) it will begin selling on September 8th. Also Nikon new series “D80” (approximately substance 120,000 Yen) plans sale on September 1st. Effective picture prime is for the middle class person with the same as α100 10,200,000.

Website : Japan DSLR camera sales update - August 28 2006 (in Japanese)