Panasonic has been busy of late announcing several new cameras, such as the Lumix DMC-GF6, and now they have followed this unveil up with the Panasonic Lumix G6 and the versatile G H-FS14140 lens. However, the only issue for now is that there is no release date or price for either.

The Panasonic Lumix G6 is described as a mid-range range Micro Four Thirds camera, but looking over the specs from the official website they do seem more than reasonable. You get a 16-megapixel sensor, the camera can also shoot at 7fps when burst mode is selected, there’s NFC, WiFi and so much more, again listed in the source above.

What will help to complement the G6 is the Lumix G H-FS14140 14-140mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./POWER O.I.S, which makes the camera far more versatile because of the new lens. Not only can you shoot landscapes, but sports photos as well.

The H-FS14140E interchangeable lens has 10x optical zoom and not only fits the DMC-G6, but the DMC-GH3 also. Other features includes the ability to shoot HD videos, as well as images that are blur free and crisp. There will be times when you will find it hard to keep a steady hand, so the new POWER O.I.S. optical image stabilizer from Panasonic will come in handy in those moments. Find more details here.

Again we have no clue as to the Panasonic Lumix G6 price or the cost of the G H-FS14140, but we should know closer to its release. As yet there are no Panasonic Lumix G6 reviews either, but that will also change in the coming weeks.

The GF series from Panasonic was in need of a redesign following the GF5, and they seem to have done just that with the GF6. The latest model has a host of new features when compared to its predecessor, but how do the two compare, and is it worth upgrading to the Panasonic Lumix GF6?

The DMC-GF6 is an update and replacement for the GF5, and the changes are not just superficial because there is some decent new technology, but we can’t help draw your attention to the biggest change from the two models, which is a tilting LCD screen.

It rotates a full 180 degrees, but it does not swivel, which may be an issue for some of you, although you can still do self-portraits much easier than you could with the GF5. Another change that you will notice from both models is that the GF6 now has a mode dial on the top of the camera, allowing you to change modes without using the touchscreen as you did with the GF5.

Because of these two additions the Panasonic Lumix GF6 is a little larger and heavier than its predecessor, although these features are more of a benefit than a hindrance. You can get a much better insight into the differences between the two models in the video below, although in order to learn much more about the GF6, then we would advise you to head over to DPReview.

Overall we’d have to say this new model from the GF series looks like a solid camera, but it’s still a tough decision to make, as we cannot be certain if these changes are enough to warrant such an upgrade?

Will you be upgrading to the GF6?

A few days ago images and the full Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 specs were leaked, although they were quickly taken down, so we were unable to share them with you. However, we have since learned that the GF6 will get its official announcement today.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 launch for April 8, 2013 will take place today at 8PM in LA, 11PM in NY, and 4AM in London tomorrow, so you had best set your alarm early if you wish to see what all the fuss is about.

Looking over the full spec list you’ll notice a 16-megapixel lens, along with that new Venus image engine. You’ll also be able to take far better images in low-light conditions thanks to its new AF system. If you are into your action shots, then you might be interested to know that the Lumix DMC-GF6 can produce 4.2 fps burst speeds.

While most of these specs seem pretty impressive, we cannot help think 1080-60i video is a bit of a letdown, but would you agree? However, Panasonic may have redeemed themselves with built-in WiFi and NFC. We have to wonder how long it will be before Samsung comes out with something cheaper than the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 price of around $680, as well as packing more features in as well?

We’re are told that the kit will include a 14-42mm lens, but we have to say these minor cosmetic updates to the body do look pleasing on the eye. It’s clear to see Panasonic has not gone all out on either the design or features of the DMC-GF6, but we have to say seeing the new model in white does give the design a new lease of life.

During CES back in January, Panasonic announced several new Lumix cameras that will form part of their 2013 lineup, but the Panasonic Lumix GF6 was not one of them. However, we have known for a while that the camera was coming, we just did not know what to expect.

Thankfully, all that has changed thanks to a recent hands-on review where many of the Panasonic Lumix GF6 details were leaked, such as the spec list. This leak now gives us an idea of the features packed inside, so has the wait been worth it?

Firstly, we need to let you know that we have not included an image of the new camera, because TechRadar could ask us to remove it, considering they are the ones who leaked the review a little early.

The Panasonic Lumix GF6 spec list and hands-on review has currently been removed, but PetaPixel has some details for you, along with those all-important images of the GF6. The new design may shock some of you, as it seems to have an old-school look when compared to its predecessor.

The GF6 will have something in common with the GX1, as they will share the same 16-megapixel sensor. There’s also a new Venus engine to help improve image processing along with built-in NFC. You will notice a new dial mode on top of the body, as well as an improved touchscreen. For those who love to share their photos easily, then the addition of WiFi will be welcome.

As for the Panasonic Lumix GF6 release date, nothing specific has been discussed yet, but we do except a price around £449 or $680 when converted, although we know the US will pay less.

When it comes to choosing a camera there are so many different factors that need to be considered, the first is the type of camera you wish to go for, second is your budget, although the two pretty much go hand in hand. When looking for the best digital camera in 2013, which has been decided by their positive reviews, we can’t help notice that there are a few older models in the list. The reason for this is because some of them are still far better than many of the new models hitting the market.

So let us look at six of the best camera models, which we have broken down into 3 categories, DSLR, Superzoom and Compact.

Best DSLR cameras for 2013
First up we have the Canon EOS 6D, which we recently pitted against the 7D and Nikon D600. This is a full-frame camera that comes in a compact body, ideal for those who don’t wish to lug a beast around. PC Mag loves the fact that this is pretty cheap for its class and comes with some top-notch features, although this isn’t the fastest on the block and the GPS loves to drain the battery.

Tech Radar has given the Nikon D5100 four and a half out of five stars. They loved its high resolution and precise LCD display, the lack of control over the exposures can be a bit of a turn off. However, both novices and enthusiasts will love the D5100.

Best Superzoom cameras for 2013
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200 has been voted very highly by PC Mag, and while this is a 2012 camera it still has more to offer than some of the new models coming out now. While the DMC-FZ200 has a lack-luster zoom ratio, the speedy performance and sharp lens more than makes up for this downfall.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V is getting on a little now, but the excellent photo quality and fast performance proves that there is life in the old dog yet. However, it’s a little on the expensive side and can take some time to master the features. An in-depth review of this camera can be found by visiting CNET.

Best Compact cameras for 2013
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 has a huge sensor for such a compact camera, and you will be amazed at how close the images come to those taken with a more expensive DSLR. However, this is still a little pricey and does not have as much optical zoom as we would have hoped. PC Mag has a full review on this compact camera.

A review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX150 sees this compact score an impressive four out of five stars. This camera is said to be very fast and the 10x optical zoom is pretty good considering its size. However, it seems that the 18-megapixel lens is a bit of an overkill and because there is not much weight to the camera it can become a little tough to keep steady while taking a photo. Read the full review HERE.

These are six of the best cameras for their money in 2013, but we are certain that you have other ideas for yourself.

The big technology shift when it comes to displays this year is 4K-resolution and as you would imagine Samsung and LG are leading the way with their Ultra HD TVs. Panasonic don’t seem to have an answer to this South Korean onslaught in the TV market, but this has not stopped them from pursuing other avenues in which to promote this new revolution, and so has been showing off their new 4K 20-inch tablet.

As yet the Panasonic 4K tablet specs have not been finalized, but they have shared with us the proposed specs with the understanding that they could change from now until actual release. However, what we know for certain is that this tablet will come with a 20-inch 4K display and will run on Windows 8 Pro.

Even though those specs have yet to be finalized the 20-inch Panasonic 4K tablet did have a Intel i5 1.8GHz processor, 4GB or RAM, NVIDIA GeForce Graphics and 128GB SSD, which is the kind of hardware that we would expect from a device that runs desktop applications, unlike some other Windows 8 tablets like the Vizio 11.6-inch model. However, the biggest feature has to be that large display with its 15:10 aspect ratio and 3840 x 2560 resolution, and is said to be the lightest 20-inch tablet when it comes to the market.

This larger tablet will not be for everyone but we’re certain that those in the graphics business or photography would benefit from such a large tablet. In a recent hands-on with the device during CES 2013 it was said that there was no rear camera but it stands to reason why Panasonic would not include one, could you imagine holding one of these tablets up and trying to take picture?

The Panasonic 4K 20-inch tablet price and release date has yet to be announced, but we are sure that the company will want to get it to market in order to take advantage of the larger tablet market.

This week has been a big one for Microsoft and their Windows 8 launch, so as expected we’ve seen a number of brands announce their hardware offerings that are running the new Windows 8 in one form or another. Panasonic’s Toughbook C2 is one such product, which will see a release date at some point in December, so let’s take a closer look at the specs.

The Panasonic Toughbook C2 will run on Windows 8 Pro and some class it as a tablet PC, although we’d call the Toughbook C2 a portable computer that can certainly stand up to the toughest conditions. This is helped thanks to a number of features that help to keep everything working in harsh environments, which includes the shock-mounted hard drive and magnesium alloy chassis. One quick look at the Panasonic Toughbook C2 might make you think it came right out of a warzone, or at least would be suited to such an environment.

Specs for the Panasonic Toughbook C2 – you will find many of the obvious features such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi in the latest formats, a 720p HD webcam, up to 2.8 GHz Intel Core i5 vPro processor, and a 12.5-inch multi-touch HD display that can be read in daylight. When it comes to ports you’ll find pretty much all you need with HDMI, VGA, and USB 3.0.

Some of the more unique Toughbook C2 features include the ability to drop it from 30-inches on 6 different sides, but the possibility of a drop from 12-inches at 26 angles. The C2 can take spillages at up to 6 ounces, can have a battery replaced without powering down thanks to Bridge battery support, and includes a triple hinge design for a much more durable product.

The weight is pretty much as expected and comes in at just under 4 pounds. You can also expect to get through most workdays with the Toughbook C2 thanks to the 11-hour battery life.

There are a number of optional features like a SmartCard reader, NFC, a rear facing 3MP camera, and 4G LTE. These can be added at an extra cost. The base price for Panasonic’s Toughbook C2 is just under $3,000, although it is worth shopping around to see if any retailers are giving anything extra with the product. We’ll update you when Panasonic deliver an exact release date for the Toughbook C2, but for now expect it by the end of the year. You can see some video reviews of Windows 8 in this article.

Panasonic are known for their quality Plasma and LCD HDTVs that often win awards from the press. Now according to a report on TechRadar the company is currently developing their own OLED TV, which will go up against rival offerings from LG and Samsung. Panasonic admitted they didn’t have one ready yet, and to some will be seen as a failing by the company.

At the show rival manufacturer Sony didn’t have an OLED to show off, but instead revealed its own Crystal LED technology. President of Panasonic, Fumio Ohtsubo, said that the company’s OLED display will be going on sale around the time of its rivals sets.

He said that the company couldn’t reveal one at the show, “but we are certainly developing it”. Ohtsubo continued that if LG and Samsung release theirs this year the company would “try and make sure we are not too late.”

Trouble is in the short term the technology will still be expensive, but as the competition between the various companies heats up they may begin to fall. Other HDTV technologies have seen their prices fall dramatically in recent times, but in the meantime OLED TVs will remain rich people’s toys.

Would you like to have an OLED TV?

The company has now revealed the first smartphone it will be using to make its comeback to the European market. According to SlashGear the unnamed device will have a 4.3-inch qHD 960 x 540 OLED screen. It will also feature NFC compatibility housed in a nice slim line “D-shaped” form factor.

It is expected to be arriving in March 2012 and will also bring with it some of the features Japanese consumers have been able to enjoy for some time. Potential customers will be able to have a smartphone that is both dustproof and water proof. Many Japanese devices offer these features but normally lack in specifications and functionality, so if Panasonic wants to do well any models will need to meet both of these requirements.

The image you can see above will be the reference design that the company will be basing a variety of new models. Panasonic are aiming for 1.5 million unit sales in Europe during 2012, and will see a global rollout of the handsets that will include the US and Asia.

Currently the Android market is extremely crowded with a lot of competition so Panasonic will have to offer something pretty special to make an impact. Will you consider a handset from Panasonic?

Back in 2005 the company did make a brief showing in the smartphone market in the region, but found it hard to compete with the more established players in the market. Now according to Mobile Please Panasonic are looking to regroup and have another go at selling handsets in Europe as well as China.

There is also talk the company will enter the American market as well with devices running the Android operating system. The company already has some handsets available in Japan that uses its Lumix camera technology with around 13 megapixel sensors. It is being reported that Panasonic are looking to sell around 7.5 million units in other regions by 2015.

But the thing is will they be able to tempt consumers away from more established companies such as Apple, HTC and Samsung? If they can get the smartphone side of things right including the price having a higher end camera will be a nice bonus for many consumers, as many now use their smartphones more for taking photos.

What do you think would you consider a Panasonic Lumix smartphone?