What Happened To the Old Kodak?

In my previous life I had the opportunity to be very involved with Kodak.  I worked with some of their researchers in the mid-nineties developing high volume digital imaging solutions.  It was very cutting edge at the time and Kodak was ahead of everyone else.  It was exciting times and it looked very promising for Kodak.  Well, we know what happened to Kodak and I’m sure they’ll be studying the downfall of Kodak for many years to come in MBA programs.

The other day I saw this press release and once again I had to say to myself, what are they thinking?  It seems Kodak is introducing a new Instamatic Camera disguised as a phone.  Wow, what a brilliant idea (note irony and sarcasm).

LONDON, December 22, 2014 /PRNewswire/ —

Iconic imaging brand Kodak and leading mobile device manufacturer Bullitt Group, have today announced that they will launch a range of Android-powered mobile devices offering best-in-class image management software and features along with great design and UI.

Aimed at – but not exclusively for – consumers who want a high-end experience but aren’t always as comfortable using increasingly complicated mobile devices as they would like to be, the range of smartphones and tablets will come pre-loaded with bespoke image capture, management and sharing features to offer a rich user experience. 

In addition, advanced remote management software will be pre-installed, allowing family members and friends to provide help and support if needed.

“Kodak is one of the world’s most recognisable brands. It is trusted by consumers as a marque of quality and innovation,” says Oliver Schulte, CEO Bullitt Mobile. “We’ve taken that heritage and used it to inspire a range of beautifully designed devices that will let users take great pictures and edit, share, store and print them in an instant.”

Unlike other phones aimed at this target audience, the KODAK Mobile Device range will not compromise on design and user experience. With as much focus on design as well as usability, the range will stand out in a market segment that is currently under-served.

Adds Schulte: “Delivering simplicity without compromise, these devices will address a segment of the mobile device market that has been poorly served to date. By giving customers easy access to printing and sharing services while still offering the latest Android OS and features found on high-end smartphones, we will appeal to a large audience of users who value ease of use and stylish design as highly as they value functionality.”

Eileen Murphy, VP Brand Licensing, Kodak is excited to be entering the mobile handset market with the Bullitt Group. “We are impressed with Bullitt Group’s commitment to delivering a portfolio of products that embrace the quality and innovation that our brand is known for around the world.”

The first handset will be launched at CES 2015 on the Kodak stand in South Hall 1, Booth 21818. There will be further product announcements across the second half of 2015 including a 4G handset, a tablet and a connected camera.

The Kodak trademark is used under license by Bullitt Group, Ltd from Kodak.

SOURCE Bullitt Group

Looking at Kodak’s Website I couldn’t help have a chuckle with quotes like these  “Our product is merging powerful digital camera and smartphone in one unique device.”  Hmmm, where has Kodak been?  The iPhone and other have been doing this for quite sometime.  How about  . . . “Innovation of Instamatic design continues in enhanced simplicity and technology. Shooting hi-res images, zooming, shooting HD video, LED flash and real viewfinder makes this product superior. Taking astonishing photos or shooting random movies has been never so exciting. This new digital vintage toy will is ready for your imagination. Innovation continues.”  You have to admit they can sure put out some interesting marketing hype.

So, let’s mark the calendar and see how long this product is in existence before it disappears like so many innovative Kodak products before it.

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