Canon EOS Rebel T4i Offers Touchscreen, Updated 18 MP Sensor

Canon makes the anticipated Rebel T4i official today, introducing it with a slew of attractive new features. The entry-level DSLR is equipped with a new 18 megapixel CMOS sensor and 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen.

The T4i borrows the EOS 60D's 9-point all cross-type AF system. The APS-C sized CMOS sensor offers a new Hybrid functionality, using a combination of phase and contrast auto focus to achieve better subject tracking and less hunting for the intended focus subject. In step with this feature is a new Movie Servo AF, keeping moving subjects in focus during video recording.

The new touchscreen features a high 1.04 million dot resolution and a tilting vari-angle design. It incorporates smudge-resistant and anti-glare coatings. The LCD surface will allow shooters to use familiar multi-touch gestures borrow from the realm of smartphones pinching to zoom in and out of an image in review and swiping to advance through replayed images.

Other new features to expect from the Rebel T4i include:

• Stereo microphone
• Faster burst shooting, up to 5 fps (the T3i maxed out at 3.7 fps)
• A DIGIC 5 processor, making possible an ISO range up to 12800 (expandable to 25600)
• Adjustable noise reduction strengths, from low to strong, with the addition of a multi-frame NR mode
• Two new creative filters: art bold and water painting

New 18-135mm and 40mm Lenses
Canon also introduces a new version of the 18-135mm lens, as well as an EF 40mm f/2.8 pancake lens. Both incorporate a new STM focus mechanism, aiming to reduce the noise that the focus motor produces.  The updated 18-135mm has a smaller minimum focus distance of 0.39 meters, and it uses a hybrid image stabilization system borrowed from the Vixia line of camcorders.

Pricing and Availability
The Canon EOS Rebel T4i will be sold for an estimated $849 body-only, and will be offered for $949 with an 18-55mm kit lens. Stepping up to the new 18-135mm kit will cost $1199. That lens alone will be offered for $549, and the new 40mm pancake will cost $199. All of this new gear is expected to arrive at the end of June.