Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX07

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It's another case of camera manufacturers releasing new digicams which are merely incremental upgrades to the current product lineup. Frankly, these scenarios have been happening so often that we're beginning to predict the upcoming models fairly accurately. While the FX07 may not be as enticing to users who own a similar, but older, shooter, we feel it warrants a quick look to unearth the differences.

Upside: It's not so much of an upside but rather what the upgrades are compared with the FX01 which the new FX07 is modeled on. Size-wise, the FX07 bears the same dimensions, which should appeal to the ultracompact and fashion-conscious crowd. It also helps that there are a variety of colors (black, blue, gold, red and pink) to pick from.

Panasonic has introduced a new feature known as the Intelligent ISO Control (IIC) which it claims as a world's first on the FX07. While the name is new, the mechanism isn't. What the IIC does is to automatically adjust the ISO setting (to a maximum of ISO 800) and shutter speed in order to compensate for subject movement. On previous models, you had to manually change those settings. Now it's all left to the camera's hardware to decide.

There are also two new scene modes--Beach and Aerial--on the FX07, which we reckon won't be strong reasons for you to upgrade but are nice additions to have.

Downside: Though the FX07 uses a new engine, the camera is still rated to last for only 320 shots based on the CIPA standard, which is similar to the older FX01.

Outlook: If you already have the Lumix FX01, the new FX07 won't much interest you unless you're looking to add an extra megapixel to your camera. But it's still worth a second look if you're out looking for an ultracompact.