Canon SD890 IS, SD790 IS, SD 770 IS join PowerShot lineup

In a surprise announcement this evening, Canon unveiled three new PowerShot SD models: the SD890 IS, the SD790 IS, and the SD770 IS.

All three new models build on trends seen throughout Canon's new models this year, coming equipped with Motion Detection and Optical Image Stabilization technologies, DIGIC III processing, and Face Detection. In general, however, specs-sheet upgrades appear to be relatively minor in most cases compared to the current generation of Canon SD cameras, with resolution and zoom range increases constituting the bulk of the announcement.

For the most part, the new cameras also wear the classic PowerShot SD look with few changes to what has become a styling icon in the digicam world.

SD890 IS brings largest zoom range yet to SD lineup

The big news with the new PowerShot SD890 IS Digital ELPH, which follows most closely in the footsteps of the SD850 (2.5-inch LCD, optical viewfinder), is the inclusion of a 5x optical zoom.

The 10 megapixel SD890 sports an impressive 35mm-equivalent zoom range of 37-185mm. As noted, the camera also comes equipped with a 2.5-inch PureColor II LCD and a traditional optical viewfinder as well – a rarity on ultracompact digitals these days.

While it doesn't have the high-end SD950's titanium casing, the SD890's control arrangement and interface appears to share its general layout with its premium sibling.

MSRP for the SD890, which should be available in June, has been set at $399.99.

Stylistically aggressive SD790 IS offers a new look for SD

Arguably the most unique looking SD camera to roll out from Canon in a few years, the 10 megapixel Canon PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH features and sharp-lined, angular look that looks more like a throwback to the older Canon ELPH models in many ways, but with a bolder appearance.

With an optically stabilized 3x zoom and an impressive 3-inch PureColor II LCD, the SD790 – which claims to be "smaller than a deck of playing cards" according to Canon – offers the level of specification that has become the norm in the SD line.

Control is via Canon's familiar multi-control dial, combined with a visually interesting flush-mounted button arrangement.

As with the SD890, look for the SD790 in June, at a suggested price of $349.99.

Super-slim SD770 IS is thinnest stabilized ELPH camera to date

The junior member of Canon's new 700-series partnership, the Canon PowerShot SD770 IS Digital ELPH is somewhat more classically styled, exemplifying the classic "box and circle" design of Canon's classic ELPH models.

The SD770's 3x optical zoom is coupled with a 10 megapixel sensor, a 2.5-inch LCD, and an optical viewfinder. Color options include all silver as well as a two-tone option, with a silver body and black lens bezel.

The SD770 IS should be available with the other new models in June, for a suggested price of $299.99.

Canon PowerShot SD890 IS Specifications:

Canon PowerShot SD790 IS Specifications:

Canon PowerShot SD770 IS Specifications: