Nikon D5000 DSLR on its way out?

Retailers recently gave clues that Nikon has formally phased out the D5000 from its lineup. Listings at B&H and other camera outlets have the entry-level DSLR marked as "discontinued," including in body-only and kit forms. Some stores, such as Amazon, still list cameras in stock.

The Japanese company had given early signs last month that the camera was on its way out but hasn't publicly confirmed if or when the D5000 would exit. A successor also hasn't been spotted so far.

Nikon's reasons for keeping the camera have largely vanished. Apart from its swiveling display, many of its features have been matched or beaten by the D3100, including both its photo and video support. It has also been bracketed at the opposite end by the D7000 and as result has been the least-capable but still active DSLR in the lineup, a title that now goes to the D90.