In addition to showing the Sony Alpha A700 replacement mock-up at Focus on Imaging 2011, Sony has also let slip its plans to release a new NEX model.

Paul Genge, Sony’s UK Technical Marketing Manger for DSLR, revealed that the discontinued Sony NEX-3 model won’t leave the NEX-5 as the only current model available from later in the year. Although he was unable to comment in regard to full specification of what the latest model will entail, he did quip that, ‘this year will be a huge year for Sony NEX.’

A look around the Sony stand at the show also revealed visual mock-ups for the forthcoming updated pro-grade 35mm NXCAM camcorder – a model which will also utilise the NEX’s E-mount lens system, a definitive nod to just how far the company is beginning to push its Compact System Camera venture.

As and when we have more details we’ll bring you the full news. Until then, we can only speculate as to what the new NEX will bring to the fold…