Soon after the release of the E-P2, Olympus has announced the E-PL1, a camera which appears to be simplified, more user-friendly version of the company’s first Micro Four Thirds camera.

It’s much the same size as the E-P1/E-P2, but appears to have a more straightforward design. The vertical control wheel and rotary dial on the rear of the previous models have gone in favour of a much more conventional navipad.

The E-PL1 features a new ‘Live Guide’ to help the inexperienced get better pictures, and a one-touch HD movie mode activated by a button on the rear of the camera. Perhaps most importantly of all, this camera now includes a built-in flash.

Otherwise, it’s a little difficult to see how the E-PL1 fits in with the existing E-P1 and E-P2 models. It shares the same sensor and, apparently the same capabilities, and while it’s pitched at novices, the built-in flash makes it a little more versatile than the others. Interestingly, the press release on the US site describe it as the ‘3rd generation’ Pen-series model.