Olympus has quietly sent out invitations to a special event in Taiwan on June 30 that should bring out three new cameras. Along with the E-PM1, the camera builder is expected to introduce the E-PL3, a replacement for the E-PL2 that would add a tilting LCD, as well as an E-P3 that would keep the built-in flash and build quality of the E-P2. Their signature trick is expected to be much faster autofocus that would not only compete with Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds cameras but some DSLRs.
Two new lenses may also be enroute. A 12mm f2 pancake lens and a 45mm f1.8 lens are expected to come along with the new bodies.
Release dates for the new PEN cameras haven’t escaped so far. Olympus typically doesn’t ship immediately after a launch. If pricing is consistent with existing cameras, the E-PL3 and E-P3 should cost $600 and $800 respectively; the E-PM1 may cost $500 to replace the still on sale E-PL1
I wonder if the Olympus E-PM1 (Mini) will be better than the XZ-1 and have AFL/AEL function. also I believe a 12MP sensor. If it has and is the same size as the XZ-1 then on paper this has to be the best compact shooter around, we will see on the 30th June.