PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the new PENTAX Optio W20, a compact digital camera featuring excellent waterproof performance with a slim, flat body design.

The Optio W20 is the latest model in the PENTAX Optio W series of cameras that are capable of underwater photography without requiring a waterproof case or other accessories.

The waterproof design of the Optio W20 meets the JIS Class 8 waterproof standard, enabling it to withstand up to 30 minutes of continuous operation at an underwater depth of up to five feet.

In addition, this model features a new Blur Reduction High ISO mode that selects ISO up to 1600, and an upgrade to 7.0 effective megapixels to offer improved image quality in a fun, easy-to-handle package. The PENTAX Optio W20 will ship this month for under US$300.

The complete news release is available at www.pentaximaging.com with more details at www.h20camera.com. Images of the PENTAX Optio W20 are available at: http://www.pentaxtech.com/Press/pressfiles.html.