As properly predicted by 43rumors yesterday, the new Panasonic GF2 entry-level Micro Four Thirds camera was officially announced this morning.

The black Panasonic GF2 with 14/2.5 kit lens. Picture courtesy of Panasonic Deutschland.

Albeit the step up in nomenclature, the GF2 is no evolutional step up from the GF1, but rather a slightly different sibling to it. While featuring the improved 12 megapixel Live MOS sensor and the touchscreen of the larger, DSLR-like G2, on the operational side the GF2 is a step down from the GF1, featuring less buttons and no more mode dial. The body, too, is a completely new design, being smaller and slimmer than the GF1’s. The GF2 comes in kit with the new 14mm f/2.5 pancake lens, and is available in the colours black, white, silver and red. It will be available from January 2011.

Rear view of the new Panasonic GF2. Picture courtesy of Panasonic Deutschland.

Over at 43rumors you can find a continually updated list of GF2 previews and reviews, as well as some additional information.