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In addition to its camera releases, Nikon has unveiled the AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F/2.8G ED VR II, a completely redesigned version of its workhorse professional telezoom. It features an entirely new optical formula which is designed to deliver sharp images all the way into the corners of the frame even on FX format cameras, using no fewer than 7 ED elements to minimize aberrations and Nano Crystal coat to combat flare. A new A/M focus mode provides autofocus priority when the manual focus ring is handled during shooting, and ‘VR II’ Vibration Reduction technology offers a claimed four stops benefit. The lens is shorter but heavier than its predecessor and incorporates extensive sealing against dust and moisture. It will be available from November 2009 at an RRP of £1999 / €2430.

Nikon has also revealed an update to its popular DX-format superzoom, in the shape of the AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200mm F3.5-5.6G ED VR II. The revised version features a new zoom mechanism to combat ‘zoom creep’ (one of the most common user complaints about the original lens), along with a zoom lock switch to keep the lens compact when carried. Improved ‘Super Integrated Coating’ promises to reduce flare and ghosting, while size, weight and optical construction remain unchanged. The lens will be on sale from September 2009 at an RRP of £729.99 / €887.00.

Leica has said its S2 autofocus medium format DSLR will be available in October for a recommended selling price of £15,996 (UK). The camera is built around a 37.5 megapixel 30×45mm sensor (56% larger than ‘full frame’), that puts it squarely into the apparently troubled medium format sector. Customers willing to spend an extra £3,096 will receive an S2-P featuring a sapphire glass monitor screen and ‘Platinum Service’ support package. The company has also revealed the prices of the first four S-series lenses, announced alongside the camera at the Photokina 2008 exhibition in Germany.

Just Posted: Our in depth review of the Olympus E-P1. Olympus has generated quite a buzz with its compact, mirrorless Micro Four Thirds camera. Its metal body, styled to evoke memories of the company’s successful Pen series of half-frame film cameras contains a 12MP image stabilized sensor mated to the company’s latest image processing engine. So, is this ‘Digital Pen’ the perfect carry everywhere camera? Read our 37-page in-depth review to find out.

Pentax has released a firmware update for its K-7 mid-level DSLR. Version 1.01 adds a new custom function that defines the default behavior of the the four way controller when in manual AF-point-selection mode. The default can be switched between AF point selection and direct access to four key functions. The update also claims to make stability improvements to its general performance.

Kodak has announced three 12 megapixel compact cameras. The Z950 offers 10x image stabilized lens, 3 inch LCD and HD video recording. No indication is given of the range of its Schneider-branded lens, leading us to suspect it has no wide-angle capability. The company has also refreshed its ‘M’ range, adding the M381 and M341 with 5x and 3x zooms, and 3.0" and 2.7" LCDs, respectively to slot nicely into popular price points. All three cameras have Kodak’s Smart Capture scene recognition and exposure system.