Canon Launches First Ultra-Compact Camera in 9 Years

2025.09.10

Canon just released the new Ultra-Compact Digital Camera. The previous such camera from the company was released 9 years ago! This a market segment that got virtually obliterated by cellphones. In fact, the only other companies that made any compact cameras during the last 10 years are Kodak and Nikon, who has already had their Coolpix A300 discontinued. Ultra-Compact cameras still have advantages over cellphones but buyers do not seem to consider them worth have a separate electronic for. Specifically, camera optics and stabilization is far superior that those of modern cellphones.

The Canon Powershot ELPH 360 HS A is modernization of its predecessor. Although it shares a similar 20 MP 1/2.3" CMOS sensor, it is now paired with a DIGIC 4+ processor that is significantly more powerful. This should extract a bit more detail than before and apply improved noise-reduction throughout the ISO 80-3200 sensitivity range of the camera.

This camera sports a 12X optical zoom lens that covers a focal-range equivalent to 25-300mm. This lens starts at a typical F/3.5 maximum aperture yet gets very dim towards it telephoto end, where the maximum aperture is F/7. Using its new processor, this camera can capture an unlimited number of JPEG images at 7.2 FPS. All but one other specification is identical to the original ELPH 360, the weight. The new Canon Powershot ELPH 360 HS A weighs just 147g, less than half the weight of the original!

The Canon Powershot ELPH 360 HS A is expected soon for $380 USD. It is already possible to preorder one from Adorama or B&H Photo.

• Digital Camera