Panasonic GF1 is leaked - new compact Micro Four Thirds camera
There is a hot new thread in the dpreview forums, where they are pointing to this mega-Panasonic-leak at the Xitek forums, where there is plenty of evidence of Panasonic's new Micro Four Thirds "answer" to the Olympus E-P1, the new Panasonic GF1. Thanks to everyone sending in the tips!
Some early observations on the GF1
+ there is a built-in flash (see item #3 in the picture below)
+ there is no optical viewfinder on the body (ouch?)
+ there is a mystery slot in the back (see middle of camera, towards the top, just below the hot-shoe) - a connector for an EVF?
+ there are also two lenses in the Xitek forums picture, one is a 20mm pancake (presumably the one everyone is waiting) and another is 45mm. (multiply by 2X as usual to get the "equivalent" in 35mm terms).
Random Thoughts
This would be the third Panasonic Micro Four Thirds camera already, joining the G1 and GH1 "twins".
And if/when it gets released, would Panasonic be able to deliver enough units to satisfy potential demand? We have already experienced the supply-side issues with the LX3 and GH1...
And who will be the first one to call this camera ...girlfriend (gf, GF, GF1)?
The Mystery Slot [NEW!]
Nick points out in the comments below that DP Interface makes a good case that the "mystery slot" below the pop-up flash is actually [cue surprise-music] a ... fingerprint reader. Now we can get our fingerprints in the pictures both TTL and through the data ;)
Discussions across the internets
There are plenty of discussions on this new camera across the internets, including this one at the GetDPI forums.



Update September 1st 2009 [NEW!]
We have started a brand new post waiting for the official announcement. Please visit that post for the latest updates!
The wait is OVER! The camera is officially announced along with a new lens, external viewfinder, and more! Check out the official announcement coverage here.



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