Back in January, Konica Minolta announced that they would be withdrawing from the camera and photo business.  Well that day looms, as tomorrow, March 31st is upon us. 

They cite the issue of keeping up with the sensor technology that is integral to digital photography, as a main issue for calling an end to their camera work.  Sony has reached an agreement with Konica Minolta to continue producing technology that current owners of KM hardware can continue to utilize.  The film side of things will be phased-out of production over the next 12  months.

I've never owned or used a Minolta camera, but have a few friends who have.  They've sworn by them, and I'm sure will be sad at this news.  For me, it's always a little sad when an older company - among the pioneers in an industry - calls it quits like this.  I guess it's the nostalgic part of me coming out.  Geez, I'm getting old and soft.