The new Powershot SD850 IS (IXUS 950 IS) from the house of Cannon has been announced. This features packed package is quite literally a powerhouse of performance. It features an 8.0 Megapixels 1/2.5" (5.8 x 4.3 mm) CCD sensor with a 4x optical zoom. The "eye catching design" comes with Touch Control Dial. The DIGIC III image processor helps in working the Face Detection Technology feature. "Face Detection AF/AE/FE automatically detects up to nine faces within a scene and optimizes focus, exposure and flash exposure accordingly. Red-Eye Correction in playback uses Face Detection Technology to search through captured images and remove any red-eye it detects." The noise reduction technology ensures minimum outside disturbance. It also features 18 Shooting modes including Creative Light Effect and My Colors photo effects.

The Creative Light Function uses the Image Stabilizer and a longer exposure to create shapes like stars, hearts and flowers around points of light in the background of night scenes. Other features include 2.5" high resolution PureColor LCD, ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift, 30fps VGA Movies and Time Lapse Movie function and a Shortcut button for instant access to favorite functions. It supports 25 languages. There is no word on pricing and availability as yet.