Canon tonight launched what it calls — and really is — the world’s fastest digital SLR (D-SLR) camera, the 1D Mark III. Based upon the current 1D Mark II and the 1D before it, the new Mark III brings a host of new features. The camera will be Canon’s flagship high-speed D-SLR, suitable for sports and types of photography that requires fast shooting speeds. The new 1D Mark III boosts Canon’s current record of 8.5 frames per second to a blistering 10 frames per second. What’s even more impressive is that the 1D Mark III can maintain this shooting speed at its full 10-megapixel resolution for 30 continuous RAW images or 110 JPEG images.

The new camera from Canon also introduces the DIGIC 3 imaging processor, which marks the first time the DIGIC 3 processor will be used on a professional level D-SLR from Canon. Not only this, the 1D Mark III will use two DIGIC 3 processors. The 1D Mark III will continue to use an APS-H size CMOS sensor that has a 1.3x lens crop factor. Canon has also introduced a self cleaning mechanism to 1D Mark III’s image sensor — a feature that first appeared on Canon’s Rebel XTi (the 400D).

Carrying forward the advanced features of the 1D family, the new camera will contain 45 auto focus points, 19 of which are user selectable and the remaining 26 will be smart “assist points.” Controls on the rear of the 1D Mark III borrows from the 5D/30D bodies, using simpler controls for scrolling and image reviewing. Some of the other features that are new with the 1D Mark III are:

• 10.1 megapixel APS-H (1.3x crop) CMOS sensor
• 10 FPS continuous shooting for up to 110 JPEG frames and 30 RAW frames
• Dual DIGIC 3processors
• New 45-point AF system with 19 cross type sensors
• Integrated sensor cleaning system
• ISO 100 to 3200 (expandable to L:50 and H:6400)
• 3.0-inch LCD with Live View mode
• 100% viewfinder

Also for the first time in a Canon D-SLR, Live View is introduced, enabling the photographer to view a shot before actually taking a picture. What’s more impressive is Live View mode is available remotely, by tethering the camera to a USB 2.0 connection or by using Canon’s WFT-E2A Wi-Fi transmitter.

Canon today also announced a new version of its 580EX Speedlite called the 580EX II. New features include a recycle time that’s 20-percent faster than the current 580EX, dust and water sealing, and is designed to match the new 1D Mark III’s performance. Along with the new flash and D-SLR, Canon is also introducing the EF 16-35mm F/2.8 L II professional lens. The new lens improves on Canon’s current EF 16-35 F/2.8 L lens in edge performance, which is a critical area of concern for wide angle lenses.