Japan's Olympus Corp, partnered with Matsushita have announced a new digital SLR camera format that will make single lens reflex (DSLR) camera models lighter, cheaper, and smaller. This is meant to help drive sales of these advanced machines.

Digital SLR cameras, which are the high end models that come with interchangeable lenses, are the most profitable as well as and fastest growing segment of the digital camera market.

However, some compact digital camera consumers have been reluctant to move up to DSLR camera models because they are heavier and bulkier.

http://uk.reuters.com/article/technologyNews/idUKT28265320080805