Product Preview - Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX100
Previewed on 31 May 2007

If there was ever a doubt in your mind over the improvement of image quality in point-and-shoots, prepare to be set straight this summer. We're only just coming up to June, but the recent flare-up in the compact camera market suggests that this will surely be a season of breakthroughs in resolution. Casio gained a head start with their Exilim EX-Z1200, said to house a staggering 12.1 mega pixels, and now Panasonic has pushed a step further to become the world's first 12.2-mega pixel 28mm wide-angle compact digital camera.

Besides record-breaking resolution, the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX100 features a newly-developed 28mm wide-angle Leica CD Vario Elmarit lens with f/2.8 brightness and a 3.6X optical zoom. Though this is ample for most applications, a new Extra Optical Zoom function means the zoom ratio can now be extended up to 7X in 3-mega pixel mode. The wide-angle lens opens the door to a world of photographic possibilities, allowing users to capture large groups of people or expansive landscapes with dynamic width.

The FX100 incorporates a host of advanced technologies that work in tandem with the camera's high resolution and extraordinary optic capabilities. The new advanced Mega Optical Image Stabiliser (OIS) now further increases precision and corrective effect to better protect your shots from blurry images. The OIS system also employs Intelligent ISO Control which senses when your subject is moving and appropriately raises the ISO setting and shutter speed according to how fast the subject is moving and the light conditions.

The camera's admirable intelligence is additionally complemented by Panasonic's superior image-processing engine that supports an exceptionally fast response time. Now you no longer have to worry about whether your camera can keep up with the dynamic events around you. Moreover, when set to High-Speed Burst shooting mode, the FX100 pumps out an astonishing 8 shots per second, and according to excited Panasonic officials, it also offers unlimited consecutive shooting.

Panasonic's latest addition to its stunning Lumix line mirrors the company's commitment to Living in High Definition with its ability to shoot high-definition 1920x1080 pixel still images and high-quality 1280x720 pixel moving images which fit perfectly on the 16:9 widescreen TVs that have found their way into so many modern homes. The FX100 also exemplifies the finest in the Lumix legacy like none before with its sophisticated style, high-end features and jaw-dropping resolution.

The Panasonic Lumix FX100 is available now! Click here to view purchasing information and further specifications.