Hasselblad has ended months of speculation with the announcement that it will showcase, next week, a new flagship medium format camera system – the H5D.

Hasselblad's next-generation H system will make its first appearance at Photokina, the world's largest photographic trade show. "The H5D features a modernised design and a new electronic engine to pave the way for ultimate quality imaging, for print-ready JPEG files, and for a smooth and intuitive user interface," claims Hasselblad.

The camera features the latest version of Hasselblad's True Focus II technology, which provides accurate focus, a larger and brighter viewfinder, as well as new ergonomic buttons. The H5D's body sealing has also been improved, while the sensor now sports a safety lock. Users will also have the possibility of recording both raw and JPEG files for "quick preview and print", according to Hasselblad.

"Customers will immediately notice the new look and improved ergonomics, and this progressive system also brings upgraded performance on a number of levels," says Peter Stig-Nielsen, Hasselblad's director of professional camera products, in a statement. "Our new True Focus II further advances focusing accuracy after re-compose, and an intuitive focus check has been added. The new hardware architecture allows for delivering print-ready JPEG files in addition to the superb raw files. And we have rewritten the user interface to achieve a smooth and intuitive operation. All in all we believe the H5D camera series will provide the ultimate high-end addition to any serious photographer's capture equipment."

The H5D series will be available as models with resolutions of 40, 50 and 60 megapixels. Hasselblad will also release 50 and 200 megapixel multi-shot versions that will start shipping in December.