"The second Canon announcement of the day is the curvier, range-topping seven megapixel PowerShot SD500 (IXUS 700). The 'perpertual curve' is apparently designed to push compact camera design into new territories, Canon says. The SD500 is 8% lighter than its predecessor and features a new mode dial on the back of the camera rather than a switch. While the size of the viewfinder has been decreased there's a 2-inch LCD with QuickBright function, which maximises the brightness of the LCD for improved visibility outdoors. Other new features include the ability to zoom during movie capture and a new 'hold' function, which allows you to view images for longer immediately after they have been shot (also seen on the SD400). The SD500 is expected to be realeased next month, priced around €499 (approx $650)." This is a VERY full featured compact camera. Even cooler are some of the accessories that are available for it right out of the gate. Namely, a waterproof enclosure and a slave flash.