Canon has launched its latest flagship PowerShot model  – the new PowerShot S100. The model, which replaces the Canon PowerShot S95 and is labelled ‘the most advanced PowerShot S-series to date’, features a new lens and sensor, enhanced HS system and Canon’s latest DIGIC 5 processor.

Leading the way with regards to new features is a completely new optical set up. The Canon PowerShot S100 now features a 5x optical zoom with a wide angle of 24mm leading through to 120mm at the tele end (in 35mm equivalent terms). Not only does this lens cover a new focal range, but it also features a maximum aperture of f/2 as well as Canon’s Intelligent IS image stabilisation.

The Canon PowerShot S100 also features improvements in both the capture and processing stages of image making. The S100 features what Canon labels as ‘the most powerful implementation of the HS System yet’. A new high-sensitivity 12.1MP 1/1.7in CMOS sensor, developed using Canon EOS DSLR ‘know-how’, offers a maximum ISO of 6400 at full resolution.

The PowerShot S100’s partner in crime in the HS System is Canon’s latest DIGIC processor. According to Canon, the DIGIC 5 processor analyses four times more image information to create each pixel, offers a processing speed of up to six times faster than the DIGIC 4, in turn reducing the appearance of image noise by up to 75%.

Amongst the other new features bestowed upon the S100 is an integrated GPS unit. The system automatically records when and where images were taken, whilst an on-board GPS Logger records a user ‘s journey and allows them to record it using the supplied Map Utility software. The Canon S100 now also offers Full HD video capture at 1080p resolution and 24 frames per second, complete with stereo sound, whilst a High-speed Burst HQ offers capture of up to eight full resolution shots at up to 9.6fps.

Other elements of the Canon PowerShot S95 remain present on the PowerShot S100. The S100 features full manual control complete with Raw capture and characteristic ‘Ring Function’ control. The S100 also retains the large 3in PureColor II G LCD screen on the rear of the camera, and is available in either matt black or a new titanium silver option.

The Canon PowerShot S100 will be available from November of the year, with an RRP of £439. For more information on the S100, visit Canon online.