Canon PowerShot G1 X Preview

For 2012, Canon U.S.A. has unveiled two new PowerShot ELPH series point-and-shoot cameras, along with a new flagship PowerShot G-series model. The G1 X  will be positioned for advanced amateurs and professionals looking for a walk-around point-and-shoot model and offers a large 1.5-inch 14.3-megapixel CMOS image sensor and an updated 4x (28-112mm equivalent) optical zoom lens. This new sensor is 6.3 times larger than the sensor used on previous G-series cameras, like the PowerShot G12, and rests between micro Four Thirds and APS-C sensors for size comparison; 18.7x14mm, similar height as an APS-C sensor and same surface area. Canon also claims that they have used the same CMOS technology in the G1 X as found in their EOS line of dSLRs. 

Other new features include 14-bit RAW file support, a new DIGIC 5 image processor with improved low-light support, high-speed burst shooting of up to 6fps (4.5 fps at full resolution), multi-area white balance adjustment, expanded Smart Auto settings, child-weighted face detection system, handheld night scene, and an in-camera HDR mode. It will shoot Full HD 1080 video at 24fps and includes an updated version of Canon's Movie Digest mode to automatically compile a video log of you still shots. Lastly, Canon has interoperated the same articulating LCD screen found on their EOS Rebel T3i. This 3.0-inch rotating screen boasts 1.04 million dots of resolution for precise color and exposure reproduction.

Canon PowerShot G1 X Features:

• Solid rangefinder body design
• 14.3-megapixel, 1.5", CMOS HS image sensor;
  
• Canon's HS (High Sensitivity) System
• DIGIC 5 processor
• Canon 4x optical zoom lens, covers 28-112mm equivalent zoom range
• 58mm filter threads for optional filters
  
• Fast f/2.8 - 5.6  maximum aperture range 
• Intelligent IS system
  
• Sensitivity range from ISO 100 - 12,800
• New pop-up flash unit
• 3.0-inch "Vari-angle" LCD screen with 1.04 million dots; same unit found on the Rebel T3i
  
• Full 1080p HD video (24fps), plus upgraded 720p Movie Digest option
• Dedicated Movie shutter release
• Smart Auto mode for beginners, plus P/A/S/M modes for advanced users 
• Burst mode shooting at either 4.5fps @ full res, or 6fps @ lower resolution
• Stereo microphones
• HDMI output
• Li-ion battery (good for up to 250 shots)
• Card slot accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC cards (Eye-Fi compliant) 

The PowerShot G1 X will start shipping in mid February, 2012, with a suggested retail price of $799 USD.