Incoming: Panasonic intros Lumix G5 Micro Four Thirds cam

Panasonic has officially unveiled the Lumix G5, the latest model in their growing family of Micro Four Thirds cameras. Like previous models, the G5 also features a 16 megapixel sensor, but this cam boasts of better overall performance (up to 16 percent, according to Panasonic) thanks to a new Venus image processor.

Past the performance upgrade, the G5 doesn’t offer a lot of new features compared to its predecessors. Highlights include a 3-inch 920k resolution TFT display that can swing out and rotate, plus an all-new Touch AF system that lets you focus on any point in the field of view by tapping on the screen. A Speed AF feature also gives you a faster lock on a subject.

While it doesn’t really offer a lot of new stuff, that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it, though. This new cam still features the best of the line’s features, including 1080p video recording at 60 frames per second in AVCHD or MP4 formats (the Touch AF can also be used with video), as well as the ability to snap still images while recording.

The Lumix G5 will be available in black, white and silver body colors in a number of kit options. Pricing and availability wasn’t announced, but it shouldn’t change much from the last year’s $700 G3 (bundled with a kit lens).