It had been rumored for quite some time, and rumors went in considerably different directions. But the overall picture seemed to be clear these last days: Olympus would continue with their Four Thirds cameras, but not be introducing any more lenses. Also, the top-of-the-line E-3 would be replaced soon.

And now it’s official – the new high-end Four Thirds camera is the Olympus E-5! It shares its overall specifications with its predecessor (which holds true for most of the body design), but has been improved in many important parts. These are the main differences, according to several sources:

• New 12 megapixel sensor with lighter AA filter for more detail (E-3: 10 mp)*
• ISO range extended to 6400 (E-3: 3200)
• 720p HD movie mode
• 920k dot 3″ LCD (E-3: 230k dot 2.5″)
• SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card support

An exhaustive list of announcements and previews can be found on 43rumors.com.

P.S.: To clarify this post’s title: According to an article at the Amateur Photographer, the E-5 might actually be Olympus’ last Four Thirds model. It is possible that all future Olympus cameras are going to be mirrorless (which not necessarily equals Micro Four Thirds!)

UPDATE: The Olympus E-5 is now available for pre-order at B&H Photo!

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*According to an earlier post on 43rumors.com, Olympus decided against Panasonic’s new 16 megapixel sensor, which is going to be introduced in the GH2.