There were some of us saying before the announcement on the Kr, that if Pentax only did a few new things with the camera, it would be a success.
Well one of my suggestions was improving the AF (see this one a lot), put in cable shutter (nope, still have to use IR control), and put in AF adjustments (they did but perhaps only universal, but it helps a lot)
But on AF, wow, we got the same new AF module that was used on the $10,000 645D on the Kr. way to go. Some people say we need to have predictive AF. I don't know enough about how predictive AF works, but wouldn't one need a lot of AF points, like the 51 that Nikon uses on the D200, D300, to get predictive tracking of AF?? I just checked on the new Canon 60D and it still only has 9 AF points, 2 less than Pentax's 11 point system. The only thing different about the Canon 50D, 60D cameras is that they have a sensitive f2.8 effective center focal point (just one :-)). I really doubt that Canon has predictive tracking either, but the low light response of their center focal point is probably helping their rep a lot.
If one goes to the Pentax site, one finds words like "drastically improved algorithyms"
Quote: The K-r’s high-precision, wide-frame SAFOX IX autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to assure pinpoint focus on the subject. The K-r is also equipped with a spotbeam projector to assist the AF system in poorly lit locations. The accuracy and speed of contrast AF operation during Live View shooting has also been enhanced by the incorporation of a new-generation image sensor and drastic upgrading of AF algorithms.
PENTAX K-r A multi-featured, entry-class digital SLR camera, featuring simple operation and a host of creative tools in a compact, lightweight body
Hey, i think Pentax has another winning camera model on their hands - way to go Pentax!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (still need testing/supported reviews - but still, looks good so far)