Olympus Stylus 840, 1010, 1020 update Stylus lineup

With the release of the Stylus 840, Stylus 1010, and Stylus 1020, Olympus brings Dual Image Stabilization and sharp 2.7-inch LCDs to their Stylus line of premium compact cameras.

All three new models feature sensor-shift image stabilization in addition to ISO boost functionality. The 8.0 megapixel, 5x zoom Stylus 840 and 10.1 megapixel, 7x zoom Stylus 1010 and 1020 all use Olympus's TruePic III image processor – developed for the company's DSLRs – which promises improved high-ISO performance and better color reproduction.

Each model comes in several high-style body colors with illuminated buttons, and features the latest soft features (including dual-mode face detection, in-camera panorama when using an xD-Picture Card, and Olympus's somewhat cryptic Perfect Shot Preview). The Stylus 1020 adds a premium glossy finish not seen in the other models, as well as an improved HyperCrystal II LCD.

The new Stylus models also sport Olympus's Shadow Adjustment Technology, which optimizes dynamic range to prevent loss of shadow detail in high-contrast shooting situations. Unlike some implementations, the approach compensates shots in real time while in shooting mode, meaning the effects are visible on-screen.

While Olympus has been the lone hold-out for xD-only memory support, the new Stylus models come equipped with an adapter allowing users to choose the more common microSD format as well.

The Olympus Stylus 840 will be available this month, with the 1010 and 1020 following in March. Estimated street prices are $249.99 for the 840, $299.99 for the 1010, and $349.99 for the 1020.

Olympus Stylus 840 specifications:

Olympus Stylus 1010/1020 specifications: