So it looks like we now know how Nikon is going to address the fast collapsing compact camera market: more. More pixels, more focal length, more technology, more DSLR-like looks. The Coolpix P510 is the best example of that: 16mp, 24-1000mm f/3-5.6 lens (yes, you read that right), built-in GPS, and a clear DSLR styling.
That's right, it's that time of year. Nikon's new Coolpix line (Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, and others have been introducing their new compact lines, as well) now includes these new models: P310, P510, S30, S2600*, S3300, S4300, S6300, S9300, L25*, L26, L310*, and L810. *=not US market.
Other than some obvious trends towards "more," much of the rest remains the same amongst the 12 Coolpix just introduced. Indeed, one way of looking at the introductions was what didn't get updated: S100, S1200pj, S8200, AW100, and P7100. Coupled with the new models, the carry-over cameras--some of which are certainly just carry overs until their inventory sells out--now amount to 23 Coolpix cameras here in the US. Yeah, more.
It appears Nikon's strategy is to continue to flood the market with iterated choices and let buyers pick older models on price or newer models on "more." But let's look at the absurdity for a moment: with color variations, a potential Coolpix buyer is facing 79 choices here in the US. What dealer in their right mind is going to stock all those?