Canon has announced the addition of four new models to its range of digital compact cameras.

including the G6 - a 7Mp version of the high-end G5, and the S70 – a more compact 7Mp camera with some advanced features. All models will launch in the UK in September.

Canon claims that the PowerShot G6, as well as upping the pixel count of the G5, is ten per cent smaller than its predecessor. The 4x optical zoom lens is equivalent to 35-140mm in 35mm format. The LCD size is increased from 1.8 to 2 inches.

The G6 incorporates Canons 9-point AiAF auto-focusing system which Canon claims gives better results especially for off-centre subjects. Canon also claims that the focussing speed is around 50 per cent faster than the G5, and start-up time is 30 per cent faster.

The G6 incorporates a full range of bracketing and exposure modes and supports the output of RAW and JPEG files. It has a suggested retail price of £510 plus VAT.

The 7Mp PowerShot S70 is a sleeker model, based on the feature set of the S60. It includes a 3.6x optical zoom equivalent to 28-100mm in 35mm format.

Although primarily a point-&-shoot camera it does include some advanced features, such as RAW file output, 15-1/2,000 second shutter speed range, AF and AE locks and manual focus over-ride. It has a suggested retail price of £425 plus VAT.

The A95 is the new A-series flagship, replacing the A80, and boasts a 5Mp sensor and a 3x optical zoom equivalent to 38-114 in 35mm format. It features Canon’s 9-point AiAF focussing system and FlexiZone AF/AE which allows users to select the primary subject for correct exposure and focussing.

The A95 also features a new 1.8-inch tilting LCD for better previewing of images. The camera has 21 modes including eight scene presets. The camera is expected to retail for £272 plus VAT.

Finally the A400 is Canon’s entry level digital compact, available in four different colours. It features a 3.2Mp sensor, a 2.2x optical zoom equivalent to 45-100 in 35mm format, Canon’s DIGIC processor and PictBridge compatibility. The suggested retail price is £128 plus VAT.

From Digit