The much-rumored Canon Rebel T4i has been officially announced.

The new entry-level DSLR sports an 18MP image sensor and captures full HD video with continuous autofocus, which is a first for Canon DSLRs.  Also new is a 3-inch touchscreen LCD - another Canon DSLR first.  The sensitivity range covers ISO 100-12800 with an expansion option up to ISO 25600.

The Rebel T4i gets an upgraded AF system, now offering 9 cross-type AF points, and will capture full-res images at 5 frames per second.

The Rebel T4i was introduced alongside two new video-optimized lenses - the EF 40mm f/2.8 STM pancake and the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM.

The Canon Rebel T4i retails for $849.99 for the body only; $949.99 with an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens kit and a "Movie Kit" bundle for $1199.00 with the new EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens.  The Rebel T4i should be available by the end of the month.  Check availability at B&H Photo.

The EF 40mm f/2.8 STM lens retails for $199.99, while the new EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM retails for $549.99.

More details and images below.

Canon Rebel T4i Press Release

The New EOS Rebel T4i DSLR Camera Puts The Power And Creativity Of DSLR Stills And Video At Your Fingertips

Silent and Continuous Autofocus in Video, The EOS Rebel T4i Lets People Re-Live Magic Moments Through Stunningly Crisp Video and Incredible Stereo Sound

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., June 8, 2012 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today announced a new flagship model in its most popular EOS Rebel line, the Canon EOS Rebel T4i Digital SLR Camera. The new EOS Rebel T4i features incredible image quality with an 18-megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, DIGIC 5 Image Processor that helps capture all the action with high-speed continuous…