Editing Advanced Photo System

{{Short description|Still image film format}}
{{about|the film format|the related digital image sensor format named after it|APS-C}}
[[Image:Advanced Photo System Logo.svg|thumb|upright=1.2|right|Advanced Photo System logo]]
'''Advanced Photo System''' ('''APS''') is a [[film format]] for consumer still [[photography]] first marketed in 1996 and discontinued in 2011. It was sold by various manufacturers under several brand names, including [[Eastman Kodak]] ('''Advantix'''), [[FujiFilm]] ('''Nexia'''), [[Agfa-Gevaert|Agfa]] ('''Futura''') and [[Konica]] ('''Centuria'''). Development was led by Kodak starting in the mid-1980s.

Like prior attempts to displace [[135 film]] from the amateur photography market, including [[126 film]] ([[Instamatic]]), [[110 film|110]], and [[disc film|disc]], APS used a film cartridge to reduce loading errors. APS also could reduce camera and lens size and weight by using a smaller image format; unlike the older amateur formats, image quality would be maintained by using newly-developed films, featuring emulsions with finer grain size and a flatter base material. The other major innovation delivered by APS was the "information exchange" process in which the camera recorded data directly on the film; this would simplify cropping prints to a desired aspect ratio and potentially could provide photofinishers with exposure data to optimize print quality. However, by the time APS was released in 1996, the first [[digital camera]]s had appeared, providing many of the same benefits with the additional convenience and economy of eliminating the developing process.
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== History ==
[[File:Nikon_Nuvis_160i_camera.JPG|thumb|Nikon Nuvis 160i, an APS camera]]
Kodak began developing "Project Orion" in the mid-1980s and solicited partners starting in the late 1980s.<ref name=PMI-98>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.pmi.org/learning/library/kodak-advantix-photographic-system-project-3275 |title=A Kodak moment: Advantix project named 1997 international project of the year |first=Chris |last=Adams |date=1998 |volume=12 |issue=1 |magazine=PM Network |pages=21–27 |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> In 1991, Canon, Fujifilm, Kodak, Minolta, and Nikon formed a consortium to complete the new photographic system,<ref name=Kodak-About>{{cite web |url=http://www.kodak.com/global/en/consumer/APS/redBook/aboutSystem.shtml |title=About the Advanced Photo System |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991103001906/http://www.kodak.com/global/en/consumer/APS/redBook/aboutSystem.shtml |archive-date=November 3, 1999 |url-status=dead |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company}}</ref> and the alliance was publicly announced in 1992.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=XsM39O-k8GsC&pg=PA46 |title=New 35mm film format: bogeyman or blessing? |first=Herbert |last=Keppler |author-link=Herbert Keppler |date=November 1993 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=46–48 |access-date=2 December 2024}}</ref> Initial testing of APS film cartridges with 40-exposure rolls started in 1994; details about the magnetic-stripe information encoding<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7dxmUB4AT_gC&pg=PA18 |title=Snapshots: New film system in 1996 |page=18 |magazine=Popular Photography |date=August 1994 |access-date=18 October 2024}}</ref> and formats were provided later that year, although the prototype "Standard" frame size, at that time, was narrower than the final APS-C frame, with a 7:5 aspect ratio, {{cvt|23.4|*|16.7|mm}}.<ref name=PopPhoto-9410>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bMWyCuSOIRkC&pg=PA8 |title=Snapshots: Advanced Photo system advances |page=8 |magazine=Popular Photography |date=October 1994 |access-date=18 October 2024}}</ref> APS was announced to the photofinishing market in October 1995 and officially launched at the [[Photo Marketing Association]] show in Las Vegas in February 1996.<ref name=Kodak-About/> At that time, Kodak CEO [[George M. C. Fisher]] announced that US$500&nbsp;million had been invested in the new system to date, and an equal expense would be required going forward.<ref name=PMI-98/>

[[File:Canon IXUS APS 20080813.jpg|thumb|left|[[Canon ELPH (series)|Canon ELPH]] aka IXUS (Europe) or IXY (Japan)]]
The Advanced Photo System was an attempt at a major upgrade of photographic technology for amateurs, resulting in a new film cartridge to facilitate automation of film loading and rewinding;<ref name=PopPhoto-9601>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=15auqgaDxgkC&pg=PA32 |title=Radically new Advanced Photo System |first=Herbert |last=Keppler |author-link=Herbert Keppler |date=January 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=32;34;170 |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> according to Kodak, {{frac|5}} of all film that it received for processing showed some defects attributable to loading error.<ref name=PopPhoto-9504>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Nx8_7xbot7cC&pg=PA19 |title=SLR Hot News: Camera makers set to make Advanced Photo System AF SLRs 1/3 smaller, lighter with greater zoom range than 35mm SLRs, but...... |first=Herbert |last=Keppler |author-link=Herbert Keppler |date=April 1995 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=19–22 |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref>{{rp|20}} In addition, the smaller film size potentially could result in APS point-and-shoot cameras with greater zoom ranges in the same size as existing 35&nbsp;mm compact cameras,<ref name=PopPhoto-9504/>{{rp|20}} or more compact altogether.<ref name=PopPhoto-9610/>{{rp|32}} Accessories were made to facilitate digitization of APS film for use with computers, including a slideshow device for televisions and film scanner.<ref name=PopPhoto-9604-roar/>{{rp|39;40}} At launch, all five manufacturers announced point-and-shoot APS cameras;<ref name=PopPhoto-9604-roar/> the [[Canon ELPH (series)|Canon ELPH]] (IXY/IXUS) drew particular attention and demand for its compact size and stylish all-metal body.<ref name=PopPhoto-9610>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_lM3mdMJNHIC&pg=PA28 |title=P&S: ''Pop Photo'' Goes Trolling For An ELPH, Finds Happiness |first=Dan |last=Richards |date=October 1996 |pages=28–39 |magazine=Popular Photography |access-date=25 October 2024}}</ref>

Despite the potential benefits, APS never really caught on with professional photographers because of the significantly smaller film area (58% of [[135 film]]) and narrow selection of film types. In controlled testing, ''[[Popular Photography]]'' found that prints from one new emulsion developed for APS were significantly sharper than an equivalently-sized prints using a legacy 135 film emulsion, despite having to enlarge the APS frame by a greater magnification ratio. However, the new emulsion also could be (and later was) used for 35&nbsp;mm film, eliminating the advantage of the smaller format.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LwqNj9E05tYC&pg=PA74 |title=APS vs. 35MM: Which is sharper? |first=Peter |last=Kolonia |date=August 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=74–75;166 |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> Film selection also hindered adoption of APS.<ref name=PopPhoto-9610/>{{rp|39}} Initially, only [[color print film]] was available, with a limited selection of film speeds.<ref name=PopPhoto-9611>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QjGdOd4qBF0C&pg=PA76 |title=APS...Which films are the best |first=Michael J. |last=McNamara |date=November 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=76–79;173;222 |access-date=24 October 2024 |quote=As we went to press, there still were no faster print films [than ISO 400], no slide films, and no black-and-white APS films.}}</ref> Color [[Reversal film|slide film]], popular with professional photographers, proved unpopular in APS format and was soon discontinued, although [[chromogenic]] black-and-white IX240 film continued to be produced.

In January 2004, Kodak announced it was ceasing APS camera production.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dpreview.com/news/0401/04011301kodakfilm.asp | title=Kodak to stop making APS, some film cameras | publisher=[[Digital Photography Review|dpreview.com]] | date=2004-01-13 | access-date=2006-11-03| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061018171531/http://www.dpreview.com/news/0401/04011301kodakfilm.asp| archive-date= 18 October 2006 | url-status= live}}</ref>

Both Fuji and Kodak, the last two manufacturers of APS film, discontinued production in 2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://fujifilm.jp/information/articlead_0120.html |script-title=ja:APSフィルム販売終了のお知らせ |title=Apusu firumu hanbai shūryō no oshirase |trans-title=Notice of the end of sale of APS film |website=Fujifilm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110709140041/http://fujifilm.jp/information/articlead_0120.html |archive-date=2011-07-09}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.kodak.com/eknec/PageQuerier.jhtml?pq-path=1096&pq-locale=en_GB&_requestid=17859|title=Eastman Kodak Company}}</ref>

== Design ==
The film is 24&nbsp;mm wide, and has three selectable image formats:
{|class="wikitable" style="font-size:100%;text-align:center;"
|+APS image formats<ref name=PopPhoto-9410/>
! Name !! Meaning !! Frame size !! [[Aspect ratio (image)|Aspect ratio]] !! Print !! [[Crop factor]]<br/>(vs. 36×24 [[Full frame (cinematography)|full frame]])
| rowspan=4 | [[File:APS Film Frame Sizes.svg|frameless|upright=1.2|alt=Diagram of the APS-H, APS-C, and APS-P film frame sizes, in comparison to the standard 35 mm frame]]<br/><span style="color:#C80032;">APS-H</span>, <span style="color:#26C832;">APS-C</span>, and <span style="color:#0078C8;">APS-P</span> film frame sizes, compared to the standard 35 mm frame
|-
! H
| High Definition
| {{cvt|30.2|*|16.7|mm|in|1}} || 16:9 || 4×7"
| {{#expr:((36^2+24^2)/(30.2^2+16.7^2))^0.5 round 2}}
|-
! C
| Classic
| {{cvt|25.1|*|16.7|mm|in|1}} || 3:2 || 4×6"
| {{#expr:((36^2+24^2)/(25.1^2+16.7^2))^0.5 round 2}}
|-
! P
| [[Panorama|Panoramic]]
| {{cvt|30.2|*|9.5|mm|in|1}} || 3:1 || 4×11"
| {{#expr:((36^2+24^2)/(30.2^2+9.5^2))^0.5 round 2}}
|}

The "C" and "P" formats are formed by cropping the 30.2 × 16.7&nbsp;mm "High Definition" image, which uses the same 16:9 aspect ratio as [[high-definition television]]. The "C" format has the same 3:2 aspect ratio as a [[135 film]] image. Most APS cameras (with the exception of some [[disposable camera]]s) can record all three formats.

The entire "H" frame is recorded on the film for each exposure, and information is recorded on the film to instruct the photofinsher to print the format selected by the photographer; an image recorded in one aspect ratio can be reprinted in another. In addition to the frame format, the ''information exchange'' (IX) standard included with APS identifies the film cartridge with a unique six-digit serial number. Some cameras can use IX to record additional [[metadata]], including exposure information, onto the film, either optically or magnetically.

The format selection is indicated on the film by a series of exposed squares alongside the image area (optical recording) or in a thin, transparent [[magnetism|magnetic]] coating (magnetic recording), depending on the camera. In the absence of an operator-specified format, the machine printing an APS roll will use these indicators to determine the output format of each print.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Langford|first=Michael|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gClySvAhrzAC&q=Most+APS+cameras+(with+the+exception+of+some+disposable+cameras)+can+record+all+three+formats;+the+format+selection+is+indicated+on+the+film+by+a+series+of+exposed+squares+alongside+the+image+area+or+recorded+on+the+magnetic+coating+depending+on+the+camera.|title=Basic Photography|date=2000-08-23|publisher=Taylor & Francis|isbn=978-1-136-09653-2|language=en}}</ref>{{page number needed|date=September 2024}}

=== Updated usage ===
Presently the format names APS-C and APS-H are most often used in reference to various makes of digital SLR that contain imaging sensors that have approximately the same [[crop factor]] as those formats, albeit with different actual dimensions, as APS-H digital sensors have a 3:2 aspect ratio, not the 16:9 aspect ratio of the APS-H film frame. Some of the lenses originally released with the APS SLRs have survived and are now marketed towards use on "APS" digital SLRs for the same reason. In reference to digital cameras, ''APS'' may also mean [[active pixel sensor]], a type of [[CMOS]] [[image sensor]].

=== Film and cartridge ===
[[File:KODAK Advantix APS Film.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|right|KODAK Advantix APS film cartridge]]

The film is on a [[polyethylene naphthalate]] (PEN) base,<ref name=PopPhoto-9601/> and is wound on a single spool, housed in a [[plastic]] cartridge {{cvt|39|mm}} long. The PEN base is both thinner and lies flatter than traditional film base.<ref name=PopPhoto-9611/> In cross section, the cartridge resembles a [[squircle]] with varying corner radii. The basic diameter across one diagonal is 21&nbsp;mm, while the basic diameter across the opposite diagonal measures 30&nbsp;mm, including the corner slot where the film exits.<ref name=Kodak-About/> The slot is protected by a lightproof door. It is available in 40, 25 and 15 exposure lengths.

The film includes a transparent magnetic coating over the entire rear surface; information is recorded on narrow tracks near the edge of the film.<ref name=Kodak-FAQ/> Each frame has four tracks: two below the frame, reserved for the camera, and two above the frame, reserved for the photofinishing equipment.<ref name=Kodak-About/> Some APS cameras use this coating to record exposure information via the IX system.

APS simplifies film handling by allowing the camera to wind the film automatically when loaded, and similarly by rewinding automatically after all the exposures have been taken; some cameras also can rewind partially exposed film cartridges, allowing them to be removed and used later. Numbered symbols (called 'visual indicators') on the cartridge end indicate the status of the film cartridge:<ref name=Kodak-About/>
[[File:IX240 Indicators.jpg|thumb|Visual indicators on an APS cartridge; this cartridge is in state 4 (fully exposed and developed)]]
# Full circle: Unexposed
# Half circle: Partly exposed
# Cross sign: Fully exposed but not processed
# Rectangle: Processed

Additionally, a tab on one end of the cartridge indicates that the cartridge has been processed. On the end opposite the visual indicators, a reflective bar code-like system is used to indicate precise film speed (at release, coded from ISO 25 to 1600), type (reversal or negative), and number of exposures; for simpler cameras, a mechanical notch indicates if the film speed is greater than or less than ISO 200.<ref name=PopPhoto-9603>{{cite web |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7BPJaraVKOUC&pg=PA28 |title=Advanced Photo System |first=Herbert |last=Keppler |author-link=Herbert Keppler |date=March 1996 |pages=28–34;100 |magazine=Popular Photography |access-date=18 October 2024}}</ref>{{rp|29}}

Kodak initially released its APS color print films under the Advantix brand, in ISO 100, 200, and 400 speeds;<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www2.kodak.com/ciHome/APS/selectingFilm.shtml |title=Selecting the Best Film |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970122052923/http://www2.kodak.com/ciHome/APS/selectingFilm.shtml |archive-date=January 22, 1997 |url-status=dead |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company |access-date=21 October 2024}}</ref> in July 1996, Kodak introduced ADVANTIX 200 Professional.<ref name=Kodak-FAQ>{{cite web |url=http://www2.kodak.com/catHome/faqs/faq-0398.shtml |title=Frequently Asked Questions: Kodak Advanced Photo System Films |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970122072330/http://www2.kodak.com/catHome/faqs/faq-0398.shtml |archive-date=January 22, 1997 |url-status=dead |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company |access-date=21 October 2024}}</ref> By 2000, Kodak had introduced a monochrome print film.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kodak.com/cgi-bin/webCatalog.pl?product=KODAK+ADVANTIX+Films |title=Kodak Advantix Films |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001202164500/http://www.kodak.com/cgi-bin/webCatalog.pl?product=KODAK+ADVANTIX+Films |archive-date=December 2, 2000 |url-status=dead |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company}}</ref>

In 1998, Fujifilm offered color print and slide film under the established Fujichrome (ISO 100) and Fujicolor brands (ISO 100, 200, and 400) along with a new "SmartFilm" brand;<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fujifilm.com/home/sbu/filmcam/apsfilm.htm |title=Fujifilm APS film |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19980119131320/http://www.fujifilm.com/home/sbu/filmcam/apsfilm.htm |archive-date=January 19, 1998 |website=Fujifilm USA |access-date=21 October 2024}}</ref> by 2002, Fujifilm had dropped the reversal film and was branding its APS color print film as Fujicolor Nexia, extending the range to ISO 800.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fujifilm.com:80/jsp/fuji/epartners/Products.jsp?nav=0&parent=234660 |title=24mm Advanced Photo System Films |website=Fujifilm USA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020317083558/http://www.fujifilm.com:80/jsp/fuji/epartners/Products.jsp?nav=0&parent=234660 |archive-date=March 17, 2002 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Information exchange (IX) ===

A major distinction of APS film is the ability to record information other than the image. This [[metadata]] information is most commonly used for print aspect ratio, but can also be used to record the date and time that the photograph was taken, store a caption, and record [[exposure (photography)|exposure]] data such as [[shutter speed]] and [[aperture]] setting. This information can be read by the photo printing equipment to determine the print aspect ratio, print information on the back (or, rarely, the front) of the photograph, or to improve print quality. The system was invented by four engineers at Kodak, who were awarded patents in 1992 and 1993 and who jointly were named the National Inventor of the Year in 1996.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.kodak.com/aboutKodak/corpInfo/pressReleases/pr19960515-01.shtml |title=Engineers Named National Inventors of the Year For Their Contributions To Kodak's Advanced Photo System |date=May 15, 1996 |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970319232828/http://www.kodak.com/aboutKodak/corpInfo/pressReleases/pr19960515-01.shtml |archive-date=March 19, 1997 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

Two methods for storing information on the film are employed: "magnetic IX" and "optical IX". Optical IX is employed by less expensive cameras and disposable cameras, and employs a light source to expose a small section of the film, outside of the image negative area. This method is limited to determining the print aspect ratio of the finished print.<ref name=PopPhoto-9603/>{{rp|34}}

Magnetic IX is used in the more expensive cameras and allows for more information exchange. Most cameras with magnetic IX automatically record the exposure date and time on tracks in the magnetic layer, outside the visible area, with more advanced models allowing the user to specify a predetermined caption to be printed on the photo or record the exposure settings, as well as determine print aspect ratio.<ref name=PopPhoto-9603/>{{rp|34}} Kodak claimed that a 40-exposure roll could record more than 80&nbsp;KB of data.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kodak.com/ciHome/APS/apsMagnetics.shtml |title=Magnetics |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970122052958/http://www.kodak.com/ciHome/APS/apsMagnetics.shtml |archive-date=January 22, 1997 |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company |url-status=dead}}</ref> Magnetic IX reportedly caused some problems for photo processors, who found their magnetic reading heads had to be cleaned frequently, or that their equipment's ability to print this information was limited, but Kodak's testing indicated magnetic deposits were not a concern.<ref name=Kodak-FAQ/>

=== Processing ===
[[File:IX240 Cartridge.jpg|thumb|right|Fujifilm APS cartridge, assigned FID code 708-759]]
After the [[film developing]] process, APS film is stored in the original cartridge, unlike 135 film. For identification, every cartridge is assigned a unique nine-digit cartridge identification (CID) code and the associated strip of APS film is assigned an identical filmstrip identification (FID) code; while the CID code has nine digits, the FID code has six human-readable digits and nine machine-readable digits.<ref name=Kodak-About/> The six-digit FID code is printed on the cartridge label, at both ends of the processed negative, and also is stored magnetically (as a nine-digit code) in the IX layer. This FID is usually printed on the index print as well as the back of every individual print.<ref name=PopPhoto-9603/>{{rp|34}} The CID/FID system was designed to be an additional convenience both for the photoprocessor, who can easily match each processed film strip and prints with its cartridge, and each cartridge to a particular customer's order, and for the consumer, who can easily locate the correct cartridge if reprints are desired.

To facilitate automatic processing of film, a unique [[DX number]] is assigned to the different types of film.

APS film is typically processed by using a small machine to transfer the exposed APS film from the original cartridge to a reloadable one, then re-attached to the original cartridge and rewound using another machine after processing. After support for APS was withdrawn in 2011, many film processors dispose of the APS cartridge and return the exposed film strip bare.

[[Image:IX240 Negative.jpg|thumb|center|upright=4|An IX240 negative strip; note printed FID (708-759) preceding first frame]]

== Cameras ==
[[File:Kodak_Advantix_F300.jpg|thumb|Kodak Advantix F300, a typical entry-level, fixed-focus<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://wwwjp.kodak.com/TW/en/nav/productInfo/camera/consumerCamera/f300.shtml|title=KODAK ADVANTIX F300/1600 AUTO Camera|website=Kodak.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160630201538/http://www.kodak.com/TW/en/consumer/products/aps/cameras/f300.shtml|archive-date=June 30, 2016|access-date=December 11, 2019}}</ref> APS compact camera]]
The format was introduced in 1996 by Kodak, [[Fujifilm]], [[Minolta]], [[Nikon]], [[Canon Inc.|Canon]] and others. APS was mainly used for [[point and shoot camera|point and shoot]] [[amateur]] cameras,<ref name=PopPhoto-9604-roar>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LmIjpZLQQUEC&pg=PA38 |title=The First Advanced Photo System Wave Roars in |first=Dan |last=Richards |date=April 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=38–42 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref><ref name=PopPhoto-9604-ps>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LmIjpZLQQUEC&pg=PA28 |title=Point & Shoot: First Out of The Box: A Whole Line of APS Minoltas |first=Dan |last=Richards |date=April 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=28–30 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref> Several of the cameras at launch shared a common design, including the Fujifilm Endeavor 100 / Minolta Vectis UC / Nikon Nuvis Mini and Kodak Advantix 5600MRX / Minolta Vectis 40.<ref name=PopPhoto-9604-roar/>{{rp|28;30;38;39}} The Canon ELPH drew attention for its stainless steel body and compact dimensions.<ref name=PopPhoto-9604-roar/>{{rp|42}}

Camera manufacturers and their branded lines of APS point-and-shoot cameras included:<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IZdHOG7zepoC&pg=PA114 |title=Top APS point-and-shoots compared |first=Dan |last=Richards |date=December 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=114–116 |access-date=20 December 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QfDJ2xAKmpwC&pg=PT214 |title=Top AF point-and-shoots compared |first1=Dan |last1=Richards |first2=Julia |last2=Silber |pages=58–62 |date=November 1999 |magazine=Popular Photography |access-date=20 December 2024}}</ref>
* [[Argus (camera company)|Argus Inc.]] (APSxxx)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arguscamera.com:80/products.htm |title=Our Featured Products |website=Argus Camera |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001210231000/http://www.arguscamera.com:80/products.htm |archive-date=December 10, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Canon ([[Canon ELPH (series)|ELPH (Americas) / IXUS (Europe) / IXY (Japan)]])<ref>{{cite web |url=https://global.canon/en/c-museum/camera.html?s=film&s2=elph |title=Film Cameras - ELPH |website=Canon Camera Museum |access-date=21 October 2024}}</ref>
* Contax (T&nbsp;ix)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.contaxcameras.com/tseries/tixbody.html |title=Contax T ix |date=1999 |publisher=Kyocera |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000229125500fw_/http://www.contaxcameras.com/tseries/tixbody.html |archive-date=February 29, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Fujifilm (Endeavor,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fujifilm.com/home/sbu/filmcam/apsidx.htm |title=Fujifilm APS cameras |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990218052711/http://www.fujifilm.com/home/sbu/filmcam/apsidx.htm |archive-date=February 18, 1999 |url-status=dead |website=Fujifilm USA |access-date=21 October 2024}}</ref> Nexia)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fujifilm.com:80/JSP/fuji/epartners/Products.jsp?nav=-2&parent=234638 |title=24mm APS Point and Shoot Cameras |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020317083639/http://www.fujifilm.com:80/JSP/fuji/epartners/Products.jsp?nav=-2&parent=234638 |archive-date=March 17, 2002 |url-status=dead |website=Fujifilm USA}}</ref>
* Kodak (Advantix)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www2.kodak.com/ciHome/APS/camerasGlance.shtml |title=Kodak Advantix Cameras* At A Glance |website=Kodak |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970122052756/http://www2.kodak.com/ciHome/APS/camerasGlance.shtml |archive-date=January 22, 1997 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Konica (BiG mini S,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.konica.com/apscam.htm |title=Smaller Cameras with Bigger Brains |website=Konica |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970221190024/http://www.konica.com/apscam.htm |archive-date=February 21, 1997 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Revio)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.konica.com:80/products/aps/cameras/revio.htm |title=New to Konica Revio Family Three New Styles with Innovative Self-Portrait Mode |website=Konica |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010409203027/http://www.konica.com:80/products/aps/cameras/revio.htm |archive-date=April 9, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Minolta (Vectis)
* Nikon (Nuvis)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nikonusa.com/products/photography/bg/nuvis/nuvismini/nuvismini.html |title=Nuvis Mini i |website=Nikon USA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970126161201/http://www.nikonusa.com/products/photography/bg/nuvis/nuvismini/nuvismini.html |archive-date=January 26, 1997 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Olympus (Centurion, iSnap, iZoom, Newpic)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.olympusamerica.com/p.asp?s=12&p=11 |title=35 mm & APS film cameras |publisher=Olympus America |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000229212454/http://www.olympusamerica.com/p.asp?s=12&p=11 |archive-date=February 29, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Pentax (efina)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pentax.com/camera_pointshoot.jhtml |title=Point & Shoot Cameras |publisher=Pentax USA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001014050411/http://www.pentax.com/camera_pointshoot.jhtml |archive-date=October 14, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Samsung (Impax, Rocas)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://samsungcamera.com/camera/english/product/aps/rocas310i/index.html |title=APS cameras: Rocas 310i |publisher=Samsung Aerospace Industries |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000309204358/http://samsungcamera.com/camera/english/product/aps/rocas310i/index.html |archive-date=March 9, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* [[Vivitar]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vivitar.com/APS.HTML |title=Advanced Photo System |publisher=Vivitar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19980201170227/http://www.vivitar.com/APS.HTML |archive-date=February 1, 1998 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
* Yashica (Acclaim)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.yashica.com/apscam.html|title=Yashica Advanced Photo System cameras |publisher=Kyocera |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970711025607/http://www.yashica.com/apscam.html |archive-date=July 11, 1997 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

Three [[Single-lens reflex camera|SLR]] systems with interchangeable lenses also were released.
{{clear}}
===APS SLR cameras===
<gallery heights=150px widths=200px caption="APS SLRs">
File:Canon EOS IX (283183733).jpg|[[Canon EOS IX]]
File:Minolta Vectis Lens.jpg|[[Minolta Vectis S series|Minolta Vectis]] S-1 with complete lens lineup
File:My Minolta Vectis S-100 (5182436253).jpg|[[Minolta Vectis S series|Minolta Vectis]] S-100 with 28~56&nbsp;mm kit lens
Image:Nikon Pronea 600i img 0604.jpg|[[Nikon Pronea]] 600i
File:Nikon Pronea S img 1320.jpg|[[Nikon Pronea]] S with ''IX-Nikkor'' lenses
</gallery>

Three APS SLR systems were released as:
* [[Canon EOS IX]] (EOS IX and IX Lite)<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_lM3mdMJNHIC&pg=PA40 |title=And here they come ... |date=October 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=40;88 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yNijOBJattoC&pg=PA138 |title=Canon EOS IX Lite |date=December 1999 |magazine=Popular Photography |page=138 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref>
* [[Minolta Vectis]] (S-1 and S-100)<ref name=PopPhoto-9604>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LmIjpZLQQUEC&pg=PA23 |title=SLR: Ingeniously different, delightful to use Minolta Vectis S-1 SLR goes to the top of the Advanced Photo System |first=Herbert |last=Keppler |author-link=Herbert Keppler |date=April 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=23–26;163 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref>
* [[Nikon Pronea]] (6i/600i and S) with [[Nikon F mount#IX-Nikkor zooms|''IX-Nikkor'' lenses]]<ref name=PopPhoto-9612/><ref name=PopPhoto-9904/>

In addition to these interchangeable-lens models, Olympus released the Centurion, a [[Zoom-lens reflex camera]] (ZLR), similar to an SLR, but fitted with a fixed zoom lens (25~100&nbsp;mm {{f/|4.5~5.6}}). Fujifilm also sold a rebranded version of the Centurion as the Endeavor 4000SL.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IZdHOG7zepoC&pg=PA115 |title=Top APS point-and-shoots compared |first=Dan |last=Richards |date=December 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=114–116 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AU_di09SdbkC&pg=PA90 |title=Field Test: ZLR meets APS |first=Russell |last=Hart |date=September–October 1997 |magazine=American Photo |page=90 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref> Before the system was released, [[Herbert Keppler]] expressed doubt about the potential market for APS SLRs, as both professional and amateur photographers would be constrained by the format's limitations, but thought the reduced size could appeal for niche uses such as photographers who want a more flexible lightweight travel option than a point-and-shoot.<ref name=PopPhoto-9504/>{{rp|22}} APS SLR cameras were not particularly successful; they were too expensive for the high-end amateur market when they first appeared, and professional photographers continued to use 35&nbsp;mm cameras, which offered a wider choice of films, greater image quality and resolution.

{|class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size:90%;text-align:center;"
|+APS SLR systems and cameras
! Mfr. !! System !! Camera
! Rel. !! [[Lens mount]] !! Shutter !! Dimensions !! Weight
|-
! rowspan=2 | [[Canon Inc.|Canon]] !! rowspan=2 | EOS IX
! [[Canon EOS IX|EOS IX]]<ref name=EOS-IX>{{cite web |url=https://global.canon/en/c-museum/product/film191.html |title=Film Cameras: EOS IX E (J) / EOS IX (A) / EOS IX (E) |website=Canon Camera Museum |access-date=7 October 2024}}</ref>
| {{dts|1996|10|abbr=on}}
| rowspan=2 | [[Canon EF lens mount|EF]]
| 30–{{frac|4000}}&nbsp;s, B;<br/>synch: {{frac|200}}&nbsp;s
| {{cvt|132|*|80|*|59|mm|in|1}} || {{cvt|485|g}} w/ 2×CR123A
|-
! EOS IX Lite<ref>{{cite web |url=https://global.canon/en/c-museum/product/film202.html |title=Film Cameras: EOS IX 50 (J) / EOS IX Lite (A) / EOS IX 7 (E) |website=Canon Camera Museum |access-date=7 October 2024}}</ref>
| {{dts|1998|03|abbr=on}}
| 30–{{frac|2000}}&nbsp;s;<br/>synch: {{frac|125}}&nbsp;s
| {{cvt|123|*|80|*|64|mm|in|1}} || {{cvt|360|g}} w/out 2×CR2
|-
! rowspan=2 | [[Minolta]] !! rowspan=2 | [[Minolta Vectis S series|Vectis S]]
! S-1<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.minoltausa.com:80/photographic/cameras/aps/vectis/s_1/specs.asp?productID=623&whichProductSection=3&whichSection=2 |title=Vectis S-1 Specifications |publisher=Minolta Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011105111945/http://www.minoltausa.com:80/photographic/cameras/aps/vectis/s_1/specs.asp?productID=623&whichProductSection=3&whichSection=2 |archive-date=November 5, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| {{dts|1996|abbr=on}}<ref name=PopPhoto-9604/>
| rowspan=2 | V
| 30–{{frac|2000}}&nbsp;s, B;<br/>synch: {{frac|125}}&nbsp;s
| {{cvt|5|*|3|*|2.5|in|mm|0|order=flip}} || {{cvt|12.9|oz|g|order=flip}} w/out 2×CR2
|-
! S-100<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.minoltausa.com:80/photographic/cameras/aps/vectis/s_100/specs.asp?productID=624&whichProductSection=3&whichSection=2 |title=Vectis S-100 Specifications |publisher=Minolta Corporation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010820054100/http://www.minoltausa.com:80/photographic/cameras/aps/vectis/s_100/specs.asp?productID=624&whichProductSection=3&whichSection=2 |archive-date=August 20, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| {{dunno}}
| 30–{{frac|1000}}&nbsp;s;<br/>synch: {{frac|90}}&nbsp;s
| {{cvt|4.9|*|3|*|2.18|in|mm|0|order=flip}} || {{cvt|11.1|oz|g|order=flip}} w/out 2×CR2
|-
! rowspan=2 | [[Nikon]] !! rowspan=2 | [[Nikon Pronea|Pronea]]
! 6i<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nikonusa.com/products/feature.cfm?id=76&feature=48 |title=Pronea 6i: Specifications |publisher=Nikon USA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000125234709/http://www.nikonusa.com/products/feature.cfm?id=76&feature=48 |archive-date=January 25, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| {{dts|1996|abbr=on}}<ref name=PopPhoto-9612>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IZdHOG7zepoC&pg=PA16 |title=SLR: Can't decide whether you want a simple point-and-shoot Advanced Photo System SLR or one loaded with 'the works'? Why not have both? |first=Herbert |last=Keppler |author-link=Herbert Keppler |date=December 1996 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=16;18 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref>
| rowspan=2 | [[Nikon F mount|F]]
| 30–{{frac|4000}}&nbsp;s, B;<br/>synch: {{frac|180}}&nbsp;s
| {{cvt|5.3|*|3.9|*|2.9|in|mm|0|order=flip}} || {{cvt|19.8|oz|g|order=flip}} w/out 2×CR123A
|-
! S<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nikonusa.com/proneas/specs.html |title=Pronea S Specifications |publisher=Nikon USA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000302013452/http://nikonusa.com/proneas/specs.html |archive-date=March 2, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| {{dts|1999|abbr=on}}<ref name=PopPhoto-9904>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5RGaYCAAedMC&pg=PA84 |title=Test: Nikon Pronea S |date=April 1999 |magazine=Popular Photography |pages=84–88;125 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref>
| 30–{{frac|2000}}&nbsp;s, B;<br/>synch: {{frac|125}}&nbsp;s
| {{cvt|116|*|87|*|57|mm|in|1}} || {{cvt|16|oz|g|order=flip}} w/out 2×CR2
|}

Of these the Canon EOS IX and the Nikon Pronea SLRs could use existing 35&nbsp;mm SLR lenses with [[Canon EF mount|Canon EF]] and [[Nikon F mount]], respectively, whereas Minolta opted to create a new lens mount which later was shared with the [[Minolta Dimâge RD 3000]], an early digital SLR (DSLR). Using existing lenses meant the field of view was reduced by around 1.6×, but had the advantage of a larger lens selection. Creating a new lens system on the other hand gave the possibility of creating smaller and lighter lenses as they had a smaller [[image circle]] to cover.

Concurrently with their APS SLR film cameras, Canon, Minolta, and Nikon released lenses specifically intended for use on APS film cameras; the APS-specific lenses have shorter focal lengths to compensate for the reduced image size. Canon's lenses, which included the [[Canon EF 24-85mm lens|EF 24-85mm]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://global.canon/en/c-museum/product/ef337.html |title=EF 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5 USM |website=Canon Camera Museum |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> [[Canon EF 22-55mm lens|EF 22-55mm]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://global.canon/en/c-museum/product/ef344.html |title=EF 22-55mm f/4-5.6 USM |website=Canon Camera Museum |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> and [[Canon EF 55-200mm lens|EF 55-200mm]] lenses,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://global.canon/en/c-museum/product/ef343.html |title=EF 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6 USM |website=Canon Camera Museum |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> were fully functional with 35&nbsp;mm EOS SLRs; at least one (24–85mm) was available in silver finish to match the EOS IX camera.<ref name=EOS-IX/>

Minolta released eight lenses for the Vectis V mount, with five zooms covering a range from 22 to 240&nbsp;mm and three prime lenses at 17, 50 (macro), and 400 ([[catadioptric]])&nbsp;mm focal lengths.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.minoltausa.com:80/consumer/accessories/lenses/vectis/index.asp |title=Vectis Lenses |publisher=Minolta USA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991012221651/http://www.minoltausa.com:80/consumer/accessories/lenses/vectis/index.asp |archive-date=October 12, 1999 |url-status=dead}}</ref> An adapter was available to use 35&nbsp;mm A-mount (Alpha / Dynax / Maxxum) lenses, with limited functionality.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yNijOBJattoC&pg=PA133 |title=Minolta Vectis S-1 |date=December 1999 |magazine=Popular Photography |page=138 |access-date=14 October 2024}}</ref>

To accompany the Pronea SLRs, Nikon released six [[Nikon F-mount#IX-Nikkor zooms|''IX-Nikkor'' zoom lenses]], all designed by Haruo Sato, which were lighter and had a smaller image circle, similar in concept to the later [[Nikon DX]] format lenses released with the company's DSLRs, starting in 2004. The Nikon IX series of lenses were not compatible with the existing line of Nikon 35&nbsp;mm SLRs; as they were designed with a smaller image circle and had a shorter back-focus, the rear elements, protruding into the body, would foul the mirror.<ref name=Nikkor75>{{cite web |url=https://imaging.nikon.com/imaging/information/story/0075/ |title=NIKKOR - The Thousand and One Nights No. 75: An exciting new photo system that changed the times! IX-Nikkor 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 |first=Haruo |last=Sato |website=Nikon Imaging |access-date=24 October 2024}}</ref> However, the Nikon Pronea cameras accepted lenses for Nikon 35&nbsp;mm SLRs.<ref name=PopPhoto-9904/>{{rp|88}}

== See also ==

* [[Film format]]
* [[List of color film systems]]
* [[List of film formats]]
* [[Panoramic photography]]

== References ==

{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* [https://archive.today/20130112054621/http://www.photo.net/equipment/aps/ Reviews and comments on APS]
* [http://www.sparetimelabs.com/animato/animato/APS/index.html Photos of disassembled APS cassette and Elph/Ixus camera]
* {{cite web |url=https://www.fujifilm.com.hk/products/consumer_film/pdf/nexia_a200_datasheet.pdf |title=Data Sheet: Fujicolor nexia A 200 (All-round), pub. AF3-012E |date= |publisher=Fujifilm}}
* {{cite web |url=http://www.fujifotocenter.at/Download/Nexia_400_Datasheet.pdf |title=Data Sheet: Fujicolor nexia 400, pub. AF3-092E |date= |publisher=Fujifilm}}
* {{cite web |url=https://125px.com/docs/unsorted/kodak/f28.pdf |title=Technical Data: KODAK ADVANTIX Black & white + 400 Print Film (pub. F-28) |date=January 1998 |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company}}
* {{cite web |url=https://125px.com/docs/unsorted/kodak/e46.pdf |title=Technical Data: KODAK ADVANTIX 100, 200, and 400 Films (pub. E-46) |date=February 1998 |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company}}
* {{cite web |url=https://www.kodak.com/global/plugins/acrobat/en/consumer/products/techInfo/e7003/e7003.pdf |title=Technical Data: KODAK ADVANTiX Films (pub. E-7003) |date=February 2002 |publisher=Eastman Kodak Company}}

[[Category:Film formats]]
[[Category:Audiovisual introductions in 1996]]