Samsung today announced two new compact cameras, the PL20 and ES80.

The PL20 packs a 14-megapixel sensor, a 27mm wide angle and a 5 x optical zoom, plus HD movie recording, into a simple to use device. It also removes the need for the ongoing purchase of AA batteries with a Li-ion rechargeable battery.

The ES80 provides another smart point-and-shoot option for consumers who seek affordability. The camera brings together easy-to-use feature such as an internal charging system to ensure power isn't lost at that crucial photo moment. The ES80 also boasts 12-megapixel resolution and a 5 x optical zoom.

Both cameras include Samsung's Smart Auto feature, with multiple modes for automatically selecting the best setting for the photographer's chosen theme, and automatically adjusting that mode to match with the surroundings in which you?re shooting. They also come in four colours - Silver, Red, Pink and Black.

The PL20's ability to record 720p HD quality movies at 24 frames per second means even if you leave your camcorder at home, the PL20 can fill the gaps easily and with a high quality result. The PL20 also includes Samsung's Smart Filter technology - artistic filters in modes such as 'fish-eye', 'miniature' and 'sketch'

The ES80 packs a number of additional features such as face detection, "Beauty Shot" for adjusting the brightness and face tone, and "Smile and Blink" detection, which forces the camera to automatically shoot another shot for you if your eyes were closed during shooting. The Self Portrait feature also automatically focuses on your face and emits a guiding sound, so you know when it's ready to shoot.