Konica Minolta?s Z series of superzooms will be joined by a new model next month. The Z6 features a six megapixel anti-shake CCD, 12x optical zoom lens, Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control, and enhanced battery performance. There are four exposure modes (Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual), three metering modes (Multi-Segment, Center-Weighted, and Spot). Key features include:

? 6.0 megapixel 1/2.5-type CCD
Maximum resolution 2,816×2,112 pixels (max print size 238x179mm at 300ppi)

? CCD-Shift Anti-Shake system
Compensates to minimize the affect of camera shake, allowing you to shoot at shutter speeds four to eight times longer (2-3 stops) than otherwise.
Ideal for shooting in dimly lit situations without the use of a flash or tripod.

? Konica Minolta 35mm?420 mm (equiv) GT APO Lens
The 12x optical zoom lens system consists of 13 elements in 10 groups and includes two AD (anomalous dispersion) glass and two aspheric elements.

? Rapid AF with Predictive Focus Control
The Z6 focuses in 0.2 seconds (approx.) at the wide-angle position and 0.3 secs (approx.) at the telephoto position.

? Enhanced Battery Performance
Up to approximately 420 shots with four Ni-MH batteries (2500mAh) or 240 shots with 4 x AA alkalines.

? Progressive Capture
A sequence of up to 10 images at 1.8 fps are saved when you stop pressing the shutter-release button. Ideal for fast-moving subjects.

PLUS: CxProcess III processor, 2.0inch LCD monitor, 5-point Area AF, Noise Reduction, Super Macro mode (focuses to 1cm), QVGA-size movies (320×240 pixels) at 30fps with sound, PictBridge 2 Compliance.

The DiMAGE Z6 will be available from mid-September. Price is yet to be confirmed but is expected to be around £299. For more details visit www.konicaminolta.co.uk