Canon announced today the introduction in Japan of two new PowerShot-series compact digital cameras: the PowerShot G12 and PowerShot SX30 IS.

The PowerShot G12 incorporates enhanced features, performance and operability befitting the flagship model in the PowerShot series, while the PowerShot SX30 features the world's first optical 35x zoom lens.

The new Canon PowerShot G12, successor to the PowerShot G11 released in October 2009, incorporates the HS System, which combines a 10.0-megapixel high-sensitivity CCD sensor and Canon's high-performance DIGIC 4 image processor. In addition, a revised noise-reduction technology algorithm delivers improved resolution quality during high-sensitivity shooting.

The PowerShot G12 features a wide-angle 28 mm 5x optical zoom lens and newly incorporates Hybrid IS, image stabilizing technology that compensates for both angle camera shake and shift camera shake. Additional features include a Shadow Correction function, which enables users to control the loss of details in shadows, and Dynamic Range Correction, which compensates for highlight blowouts in an image. In addition, the camera is capable of recording HD 1,280 x 720 video at 24 frames per second (fps) with high-quality stereo sound for the creation high-impact movies.

The PowerShot G12 features a new front dial near the camera's grip, providing a feel similar to that offered by digital SLR cameras, enabling users to quickly change camera settings, without needing to move their hand. The camera incorporates a 2.8-inch Vari-Angle Clear Live LCD V monitor and features enhanced expandability by offering compatibility with a range of EOS-series accessories, including Speedlite flash and remote switch products, and the newly introduced FA-DC58B Filter Adapter (sold separately) to enable use with 58 mm filters for EF lenses.

The new Canon PowerShot SX30 IS, incorporating the world's first optical 35x zoom lens, offers a wider zoom range - from 24 mm to 840 mm - and achieves a wider angle of view than its predecessor, the PowerShot SX20 IS released in August 2009. The camera is capable of recording HD 1,280 x 720 video at 30 fps with high-quality stereo sound, and offers such features as a Movie Button, Smart Auto Movie, and a Dynamic Mode. Delivering exceptional basic performance, the PowerShot SX30 IS combines Canon's DIGIC 4 image processor and a high-resolution 14.1-megapixel CCD sensor, and incorporates a 2.7-inch Vari-Angle Clear Live LCD V monitor with a wide-angle view.