The options in Olympus' slimline FE series of compact point and shoots will see some refreshing this year, with the addition of the FE-310, FE-320, FE-340, and FE-350. The new FEs share an 8.0 megapixel CCD and offer face detection, digital image stabilization, and Olympus's Perfect Shot Preview and In-Camera Help Guides across the board.

The face detection system employed on all four new models is a dual-function system, optimizing both focus (Face Detection AF) and exposure (Face Detection AE). All four models also use an ISO-boosting approach to stabilize the image and freeze action when image stabilization is selected; the FE-320 and FE-340 also utilize an on-board gyro that tracks camera movement and enables users to fix blurry images in-camera.

Perfect Shot Preview mode allows users to preview images effects and photographic corrections in real time. It's not entirely clear how this system differs from standard on-screen adjustments common toto many digital cameras: we'll have to wait for production models to be sure.

Expanding the functionality of face detection technology, the FE-320 and FE-340 feature a Smile Shot system, which fires three consecutive shots when a subject's face is smiling. For correcting less-than-happy faces, all four models also sport a variant of a system that was promised by a few different companies for this season: Expression Edit uses face detection technology to edit a subject's face after the image is captured, allowing users to put a smile on frowning faces, for instance, using in-camera post-processing. In truth, the whole idea seems a bit bizarre.

FE-310 offers extended zoom in a budget model

Going beyond the standard 3x zoom, the FE-310 features a 5x unit that should set it apart from other devices in its price range. Otherwise, it's a pretty conventional point-and-shoot, with AA power and a 2.5-inch LCD.

The FE-310 should go on sale this month. Estimated street pricing is $149.99.

Ultra-thin FE-320 provides pocket-size performance

At only .65 inches thick, the FE-320 looks to compete seriously in the slim-down contest that's expected to take place this year in the ultra-compact market. In addition to a 3x zoom and 2.7-inch display, the FE-320 sports the Olympus TruePic III processor, sourced from the company's DSLR lineup. As noted, Smile Shot and gyro-based image stabilization processing round out the package.

Look for the FE-320 for around $179.99 in stores before the end of the month.

Full-featured FE-340 sports 5x zoom

The FE-340 comes with the full range of Olympus's new features, including a 5x optical zoom, TruePic III processing, gyro-based IS, Smile Shot, and Expression Edit.

Additionally, the slim, metal-clad FE-340 comes in five colors: silver, red, blue, black, and pink.

Pricing for the January-release FE-340 is anticipated at $199.99.

FE-350 shows off wide screen, wide angle lens

Using a 4x wide-angle zoom not seen in the other FE-series cameras, the FE-350 features a zoom range all the way out to a 35mm-equivalent 28mm. A high-resolution 3-inch LCD is the FE-350's other primary talking point.

As with the rest of the series, the FE-350 should start showing up for sale this month, for around $249.99.

Olympus FE-310 specifications:

Olympus FE-320 specifications:

Olympus FE-340 specifications:

Olympus FE-350 specifications: