A unique breed of rugged cameras, Panasonic's new 12.1-megapixel Lumix DMC-TS3 has been tailored to endure even more extreme outdoor conditions than prior models.

For example, Panasonic boasts that the TS3 remains waterproof up to approximately 40 feet (many comparable cameras can handle only up to 10 feet), is shockproof to approximately 6.6 feet, is freeze-proof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and is completely dust proof.

Besides all those hazard-proofing features, the TS3 has been loaded with some other notable outdoor-adventure essentials such as a built-in GPS function, a compass, an altimeter and a barometer.

Keeping up with the competition, the TS3 has been enhanced with full 1080p HD video.

Like Panasonic's other new cameras, the TS3 features a 3D Photo mode and instant online sharing technology. The Panasonic Lumix TS3 features a 28mm wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens; a 4.6x optical zoom, which operates in both photo and video mode; and a 2.7-inch LCD screen.

The Lumix TS3 is available in red, orange, silver and blue. Pricing was not available at press time.