Panasonic has posted and since pulled specs for the LX3 replacement. To be called LX5, the design and layout remain quite similar to the current camera with a couple significant additions: extended zoom range and an optional EVF.
The new lens zoom range is 24-90 (f:2.0-3.3). It's still a Leica design but differs in several respects from the current lens.
I presume the accessory EVF will be similar to if not the very one used on the GF1. This is a wonderful enhancement for anyone frustrated by composing and focusing with a high-gloss LCD display in direct sunlight, or who doesn't like shakey video shot with a small digicam held at arm's length.
There are tons of specs to pore over; a screen capture of the full list is available here.
http://43rumors.com/ft5-panasonic-lx5-leaked/
This leaves open the possibility of a Panasonic fixed-lens 4/3 compact camera, and will finally squelch the seven-hundred "ZOMG they're discontinuing the LX series" threads that have infested various camera forums for the last year. (Now we can commence with the "LX5 will be a horrible disappointment" threads.)
Backpackers OTOH–feel free to rejoice at another fine camera choice forthcoming.
Cheers,
Rick
