BenQ

BenQ is not really a new player in the computer hardware industry. In fact, they used to be Acer's Communications & Multimedia division until they adopted their current name in December 2001. According to BenQ, their name reflects their motto "Bringing Enjoyment and Quality to Life."

BenQ is the world's third-largest manufacturer of LCD displays and is ranked among the "Top 100 IT" companies in the world by Business Week magazine. BenQ's product lines are managed by three business groups :

• Computing Products Business Group - LCD monitors, Joybook series of laptops, optical storage products and imaging products like scanners and printers.
• Mobile Business Group - mobile phones and wireless communication products.
• Digital Media Business Group - digital projectors, LCD TVs, personal AV products, digital cameras.

When it comes to the digital camera market, BenQ is a new player, compared to established companies like Nikon and Sony. As such, it is no surprise when they recently announced two new digital cameras in partnership with Pentax.

Team ARP was recently invited to the press launch. Let's check out the event!

The Event

The launch was held at the BenQ Lounge on the October 6th, 2005. On arrival, we were given the media kits and immediate placed before a large BenQ backdrop for pictures!

Yeah, we had our mug shots taken by three BenQ girls using the BenQ cameras before we were allowed in.

When we were ushered into the BenQ Lounge, it was just in time. The place was packed with people and BenQ was just about to start the event.

It started off with a speech by Mr. Lim Swee Siang, the Managing Director of BenQ Technologies Sdn. Bhd.

Mr. Lim Swee Siang

Mr. Alexander Su, from BenQ Taiwan later gave his speech about the concept behind the two cameras. He states that the new design emphasizes both organic and geometric elements, with some inspirations from Audi cars.

BenQ Malaysia's General Manager, Miss Chung Chee Fui, and Mr. Shigeki of Pentax also presented their speeches about the partnership between BenQ and Pentax in the development of the two new digital cameras.

And then, it was time for the cameras to be revealed!