Kodak to Launch Its First Android Smartphone at CES 2015

Kodak, a camera-making firm that recently emerged from bankruptcy, has now announced its plans to launch a new range of Android smartphones with "best-in-class image management software and features."

While the first smartphone is set to launch during at CES 2015 event next month in Las Vegas, other "Android-powered mobile devices", including a 4G handset, a tablet and a connected camera, will eventually arrive during the second half of 2015.

The camera-maker says the smartphones are aimed at consumezrs who want a "high-end experience" but are uncomfortable with complicated devices. The company promises a "great design and UI". Kodak has collaborated with British firm Bullit that will make most of the components of the smartphone. The firm is also known for making rugged CAT-branded smartphones.

The details on the Kodak Android smartphone's design and specifications are scarce for now, but it's apparent the focus of the handset will be the camera and imaging capabilities. Kodak has added that the upcoming smartphones and tablets "will come preloaded with bespoke image capture, management and sharing features to offer a rich user experience." Also, the devices will feature remote management software to guide family members and friends through various functions.

With the launch of a camera-focused Android smartphone, Kodak looks set to join Samsung (with its Galaxy S4 Zoom and Galaxy K zoom) and Panasonic, which in September launched its Android-powered camera-phone, the Lumix DMC-CM1. Other camera manufacturers, including Nikon, have launched Android-based cameras in the past.

"Kodak is one of the world's most recognisable brands. It is trusted by consumers as a marque of quality and innovation," said Oliver Schulte, CEO Bullitt Mobile at the time of announcement. "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."

Schulte added, "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 stated that, "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."