Test Images (click to enlarge)
Still Life	Multi Target

Basic Specifications
Resolution:	12.10 Megapixels
Lens:	5.00x zoom (37-185mm eq.)
Viewfinder:	LCD
LCD Size:	3.0 inch
ISO:	80-3200
Shutter:	15-1/1600
Max Aperture:	3.2
Mem Type:	SDHC / SD
Battery:	Custom LiIon
Dimensions:	3.7 x 2.2 x 1.0 in. (95 x 57 x 26 mm)
Weight:	5.6 oz (160 g)
MSRP:	$380
Availability:	04/2009

12.10 Megapixels	5.00x zoom	3.0 inch LCD

The Canon PowerShot SD970 IS replaces the previous SD890 model in the company's lineup, and is based around a 1/2.3" 12.1 megapixel CCD image sensor, DIGIC 4 image processor, and a Canon-branded 5x optical zoom lens. The SD970 IS's lens offers focal lengths ranging from a rather tight 37mm wide angle to a 185mm telephoto, and features true optical image stabilization. Maximum aperture varies from f/3.2 to f/5.7 across the zoom range, and macro focusing is possible to just two centimeters. Continuous shooting is possible at one frame per second.

There's no true optical viewfinder, with the Canon SD970 IS instead opting solely for a 3.0" LCD display with 230,000 dots of resolution. The maximum image dimensions are 4,000 x 3,000 pixels, and 30 frames-per-second 720p (1,280 x 720) movie recording is also possible with the Canon SD970. Sensitivity ordinarily ranges from ISO 80 to ISO 1,600 equivalents, and can be extended to ISO 3,200 equivalent in a high sensitivity scene mode. A built-in flash strobe is rated as good to 11.5 feet (3.5 meters) at wide angle, and 6.6 feet (2 meters) at telephoto. Images and movies are stored on SD cards, HDMI high-definition and NTSC / PAL standard definition video output plus USB 2.0 High-Speed computer connectivity are on offer, and the Canon PowerShot SD970 draws power from a proprietary NB-5L Lithium Ion rechargeable battery.

The Canon SD970IS ships from mid-April with pricing of $380.