Naruto, Bleach, Tensai Bakabon Cameras for Sale

Cameras can insert anime characters into photos; Kamen Rider, Ultraman also available

The electronics manufacturer Casio has announced that one of its popular camera models will come in anime editions: a Naruto version, a Bleach version, and a version for Fujio Akatsuka's gag anime Tensai Bakabon. The camera is the Casio Exilim Zoom Z330, a 12-megapixel point-and-shoot originally available in multiple colors. The new tie-in versions feature special art on the camera body, special animated start-up screens, and the ability for users to insert images of the respective series' characters into photos on the camera.

 The Bleach version of the camera is a limited edition, with only 300 units on sale starting in late August. It also comes with a specially designed camera case and costs 29,800 yen (about US$350.00). The Tensai Bakabon camera comes in two versions — one with Bakabon's Papa and one with the Unagi-Inu (Eel-Dog) character. The camera itself is not limited, but it comes with a special case that is limited to 500 units for each version. It is also due in late August for 29,800 yen. The Naruto camera is due out in mid-September, is not limited, and does not feature a special case. Its price is 27,800 yen (US$320.00).

 Similar cameras are also available for the live-action Kamen Rider and Ultraman franchises; they are not limited but do come with special cases for 29,800 yen. Both are due in late August. Another version features five female "Miss Magazine" models who have adorned the cover of Kodansha's Weekly Shonen Magazine, and still another version is dedicated to the Hanshin Tigers baseball team. All of the cameras are currently available for pre-order.