Yesterday, information about the new GXR system from Ricoh was leaked, and today, Ricoh came out clean and provided complete details about the new camera system. The new GXR system offers interchangeable slide mount ‘lens units’ – sealed modules containing both optics and sensor, meaning it can switch from a large (APS-C) 12-megapixel CMOS sensor with fast prime lens to a tiny 10-megapixel CCD sensor with 24-70mm lens. Ricoh claims that the GXR system based cameras are the world’s smallest and lightest digital camera with the ability to change lenses. The lens, image sensor, and image-processing engine are integrated into the module, so the body itself does not contain an image sensor.

The camera body that includes main controls, an internal flash, a hot shoe and 3-inch color accurate LCD is available for pre-order on Amazon priced $549. Ricoh will ship two lens and sensor module combinations initially. The first module features a 10-megapixel sensor with 24-72mm f2.5-4.4 lens for $440. The second module combines 12-megapixel CMOS sensor with 50mm f2.5 lens for $830. Ricoh will start shipping the new camera in December. We have added a video below showcasing the new camera.
[Via DP Review]