Angela - I really hope so. I just emailed Canon Support <CareCenter (at)cits.canon.com>
Perhaps you can write an email too if they miss out on this forum. Pretty generic email as expected.
We might as well compare notes since we're in the same boat with this *defect* of theirs.
I feel quite bad as I recommended many of my friends this Canon S100! I had no idea this problem would occur and I hope they don't have this problem... I forwarded them this thread so they are ready to write if such a problem occurs.
And I'd like to note I did try those steps to resolve the problem in the email below. It's basically a reset and no it didn't work.
-------------------------------------------
Thank you for contacting Canon product support. I understand that your PowerShot S100 camera is displaying a lens error. I will be happy to assist you with this error.
A lens error indicates that an internal error has occurred. Sometimes this can happen if the batteries run very low while the camera attempts to power off. It can also appear if there has been physical damage to the lens mechanism.
Note: Please ensure you use an alternate or fully charged set of batteries to check your camera.
Please follow these steps to attempt to resolve the problem:
1. Remove the batteries from the camera.
2. Let the camera sit with the batteries removed for approximately 20 minutes.
3. Reinstall the batteries and power on the camera. If you receive the same message, your camera will require service to correct the issue.
Canon has confirmed that some PowerShot S100 digital cameras encounter a lens error caused by a disconnected part inside the camera. Those PowerShot S100 Digital Cameras within the following serial number range are affected:
The first and second digits of the camera’s serial number are any number from “29” through “41.”
For example: “29xxxxxxxxxx”, “30xxxxxxxxxx”, ”41xxxxxxxxxx” etc.
(The [x] characters shown above represent the remaining characters of the product’s serial number.)
Canon USA will repair free of charge, regardless of the warranty status, if it is confirmed that the lens error has been caused by disconnection of the part inside the lens. If your camera has a serial number in the range listed above you are entitled to have your camera repaired free of charge.
http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/standard_display/consumer_repair
Please mail your camera to the Factory Service Center (FSC) shown below. When shipping your camera, be sure to remove the memory card and battery. You are not required to send any accessories or manuals to the FSC. Include your name, email address, physical address, telephone number, and a letter describing the issue. Please remember to pack the camera well to prevent damage during shipment and send it using a service that can track and insure the package.
You may send your camera to the following address:
Canon Factory Service
12022 Canon Boulevard
Newport News, VA 23606
Upon arrival at the FSC, your camera will be entered into our repair database and assigned a repair number. A technician will visually inspect your camera and advise you of the findings. When the repairs are complete your camera will be shipped back to you via Federal Express. Usually, a warranty repair is completed within approximately five to seven business days of the camera's arrival at the FSC. If the repair entails something that is not covered by the warranty, a written estimate will be emailed or mailed to the address that you have provided. All repair work will begin once the estimate is approved and payment is made. You can decline the repair if you wish by notifying the FSC and the camera will be returned to you.
*Please note that our U.S. Factory Service Centers are unable to accept packages from or return equipment to addresses outside the United States.
I hope this information is helpful to you. Please let us know if we can be of any further assistance with your PowerShot S100 camera. Thank you for choosing Canon.
Sincerely,
Nancy
Technical Support Representative
