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New cameras in 2011: Canon 6D? Nikon D800? Canon G13? Canon 5D Mark III? Sony A77 / A800?

Let's take a closer look at some of the more interesting (and realistic) new camera rumours making the rounds. What does 2011 hold in the way of new camera releases? These are our predictions...

Could a Canon EOS 5D Mark III release date be just around the corner? We think so. Launched in 2008, theCanon 5D Mark II is due a refresh. Essentially just the innards of an Canon 5D inside a slightly spruced-up body shell, plus a 21-million-pixel sensor and a very cool (for 2008) video shooting function, the 5D MKII always looked like something of a compromise. At this point in time, the 5D MK II lacks both the speed and enhanced functionality of the newer APS-C format EOS 7D, and the rugged construction and almost infinite customisation of Canon’s professional EOS 1D series. Expect an updated body shell, greatly improved AF (probably borrowed from the Canon 7D) and a tweaked video shooting capability. We’d also stick our necks out and suggest that whatever replaces the Canon EOS 5D MK2 will have the Canon 60D’s (read our Canon 60D review) articulated LCD screen – but possibly with the addition of touch-sensitivity. If this turns out to be true, it would be the first full-frame camera to feature this technology.