It looks like the first new Pentax compact of 2012 is here- the Optio VS20! New of this new compact, posted via Norwegian press channel, suggests that the camera has some very exciting highlights and is a truly-modern compact camera.
pentaxvs20.jpg
Key Specifications
16 zegapixel CCD Sensor
3-inch LCD
20x zoom lens (28-560mm equiv.)
Minimum focusing distance of 10mm in macro mode
Sensor-shift Shake Reduction
ISO 6400
HD video recording (720p)
Though it hasn't yet officially been announced in the US, sources say that the camera is expected to launch next month at an MSRP of around $249.
Although the camera is still running Pentax's beginner-friedntly point-and-shoot firmware with automatic shooting mode selection, three new filters have been added to this camera, namely:
Fish-eye mode
Hand-helf night snap mode
Sketch mode
The VS20 also has an innovative shutter release button on the side in order to make verticals a snap, and for group or family shots, it will fully support Pentax's IR remote control. The makers also state that the new night snap mode will greatly reduce image noise.
pentaxvs20_front.jpgpentaxvs20_back.jpg
As you can see from the photos, it features an elegant yet simple design and a very compact body.