The NX10 sports a 14.6 million pixel resolution APS-C CMOS imaging sensor, which was first released in early 2008 for the GX-20 digital SLR, built in collaboration with Pentax.

The compact camera claims to feature 'one of the fastest AF in its class on the market,' using the new DRIMe II Pro engine and advanced AF algorithm.

The camera uses a three-inch Amoled screen for easier viewing 'even in bright sunshine and at acute viewing angles, meaning users no longer need to shield their screen with their hand,' says Samsung.

It also features an electronic viewfinder with 100% field of view, an ISO range of 100-3200, similar to the Panasonic models, and a built-in pop-up flash. It can shoot 720p HD movies.

However, the camera's biggest asset is its small size - it weighs 350g and measures 123x87x39mm. 'The new Samsung NX10 marks the start of the next generation of cameras,' says SJ Park, CEO of Samsung Digital Imaging Company. 'We know from our detailed research over several years that what consumers want from their cameras is evolving, which we've reflected in the development of the Samsung NX10. With specialist equipment open to everyone and no longer restricted solely to the professional, more and more people want to capture something creative and tell a story through their camera - but they also want something compact that they can carry around with them all day. The large sensor and the ultra fast auto focus give consumers the quality they demand as well as the compactness they want in one exceptional package.'

The camera will be available this spring in the UK with an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens in black or in silver, retailing at £600. At launch, Samsung will also make two other lenses available - a 50-200mm f/4-5.6 and 30mm pancake.

Similarly to Panasonic's and Olympus' range of Micro Four Thirds cameras, Samsung says that the NX10 marks the first iteration in a new line of compact cameras, with additional models planned.

For more details, visit samsung.com/uk.