TOKYO - Action seekers now have a new camera to get before Christmas with the launch of the new Casio Exilim EX-FR100.

Like its predecessor the FR10, the new 12-megapixel FR100 can be controlled by a remote via Bluetooth with a range of up to 10m.

But the new camera has a wider 16mm f/2.8 lens, compared with FR10's 21mm lens. With the wider lens, you can get better close-up shots from, say, your arm or shoe by strapping the camera there.

The new camera's remote control also has a bigger three-inch touchscreen display for better control, compared with FR10's 2-inch display.

The FR100 is dust-proof and is able to withstand damage when dropped from a height of up to 1.7m. It is splash-proof, being able to go underwater to a depth of 1.5m for an hour.

The Casio Exilim EX-FR100 ($699) is available in yellow, black and white. Prices of optional accessories for the FR100 range from $32 to $159.

For a detailed look of the FR100, stay tuned for the print article on Dec 16.