Pentax has unveiled a replacement for its Optio S10 digi compact delivering a higher resolution at 12 megapixels, a 6x digital zoom and a sensitivity range of ISO 50 to ISO 3200.

The Optio S12 is claimed to pack in the highest technology in the smallest possible body.

It is built around a 3x optical zoom delivering f/2.8-5.4 7.9-23.7mm (which is 38–114mm in 35mm film format).

Tools include digital shake reduction and Face Recognition AF & AE in all modes of operation as well as 18 different Picture modes.

The Face Selector offers fully automatic focusing and exposure using automatic object recognition within the autofocus frames.

Pentax adds: "The autofocus and exposure set according to the object position so that exact focus and proper skin tones are assured, even in backlighting conditions".

The camera also has a 2.5 inch TFT Colour LCD Monitor with 232,000 pixels and an anti-reflection coating.

For film shooting, the camera has a movie mode delivering 30fps.

The camera, which is 87(W) x 54(H) x 21(D)mm and weighs 130g, will be available in silver, black, pink and metallic blue.

It will arrive in the UK in March priced £199.99.

>> Link - Pentax UK