Canon has finally unveiled its update to its EOS 500D range, the EOS 550D – a camera which Canon is saying "redefines the boundaries". Packing a newly-developed 18MP CMOS sensor, the EOS 550D uses Canon's DIGIC 4 image processor, which means it can shoot Full HD movies.

The 550D features a 9-point AF system, has 14-bit image processing and impresses with a 100 – 6400 (expandable to 12800) ISO rating.

Also on board is the ability to shoot 3.7 frames per second (fps), handy for any sports photographers out there.

HD movie making

As the EOS 550D has a Full HD movie mode, it also comes with a number of movie presets.

These include the ability to shoot 30, 25 and 24fps at 1920x1080p resolution or 720p video at 60 and 50fps. There's also an 3.5mm external microphone jack included to help with making movies.

Canon has also announced that it has developed a free EOS movie plug-in for Final Cut Pro, so it's easier to get your footage off of the camera and into the edit suite.

UK release

Flip the camera around and there's a 3:2 Clear View LCD screen, which is said to be anti-reflective and water repellent.

And like the 500D, buttons on the camera have been made bigger and there's the inclusion of a new button on the battery grip which allows for changing the aperture setting.

HDMI connectivity and the news that the camera is compatible with Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX series Speedlite flash units, rounds off an impressive launch from Canon.

The Canon EOS 550D (body only) has a UK release date of 24 February and is priced at a penny under £799.

Go to www.canon.co.uk for more details.

If you want to see the Canon EOS 550D in action, then head over to PhotoRadar.com where they have already had a bit of time with the camera.