The EOS Digital Rebel XS/1000D/Kiss F (full product specifications) is technically a hybrid between hardware and features found in Canon’s entry-level cameras from the past: the 7-point autofocus system comes from the XT/350D, the Digic III processor is the same as in the XSi/450D and the Live View feature is implemented with the same features as found in the XSi/450D.

With this DSLR Canon seems to open up a new class in their EOS system which is somehow below the former entry level cameras (XT/350D, XTi/400D) and the latest entry-level XSi/450D. It’s priced 200$ below Canons current or former entry-level DSLR XSi/450D and you can find a nice first review of this new DSLR over at Digital Photography Review.

Canon also introduced the new midrange Speedlite 430EX II, replacing the 430EX flash unit. This new Speedlite is now fully configurable with the Camera’s LCD menu and it got now a metal shoe. According to Canon the 430EX II also boasts 20% faster recycling times and is more silent while doing this. In Europe and in the USA the Speedlite should be available from the end of July.