Last year, Pentax made a fairly good impression with the X70, a 12-megapixel superzoom with a 24x optical zoom. Now Pentax has confirmed the existence of that camera's successor, the X90, an even super-er superzoom, with a meaty 26x optical zoom.
Apart from its zoom boost and a slightly increased resolution, to 12.1 megapixels, the X90 remains largely the same as its predecessor, retaining the burst mode that allows you to take 11 shots at a 5-megapixel resolution in a second, as well as the 1cm macro mode.
The X90 will allegedly be able to shoot for 50 per cent longer than its previous incarnation, thanks to some large-capacity lithium-ion-battery goodness. You can record 720p high-definition videos to SD and SDHC cards, and play them back on the 69mm (2.7-inch) LCD display.
The X70 had a few performance and photo-quality issues that kept it from thoroughly tickling our fancy. Stay tuned for our verdict on whether or not the X90, due to be released in March for about £330, can atone for the sins of its father.