From AP magazine..
Canon hopes its EOS 1000D will trigger a digital SLR revolution among mass market consumers, tempting them into taking their first steps into DSLR photography.
Pitched below the 12.2MP EOS 450D, the 1000D features a 10.1-million-pixel CMOS sensor and will vie for position in the cut-throat consumer DSLR battleground where it will go head to head against models such as Nikon's D60.
The 1000D inherits key features from higher-end EOS models, including Live View and Digic III image processor.
It is due to land in UK stores at the end of July or beginning of August priced £499.99. It will also be out as a kit that includes an 18-55mm IS lens, priced £579.99.
Canon Europe has confirmed that the entry-level 400D will soon cease production. However, it tells us that the 1000D is not a replacement for the 400D, a model announced in August 2006, priced around £650.
Squarely aimed at the entry-level user, Canon claims its new baby will serve as the 'gateway to full EOS power'.
Mike Owen, photo products team leader at Canon Europe's Planning Division, told AP: 'We think this will be incredibly popular. We have seen a huge expansion in the market since the EOS 300D and we hope that the 1000D will continue to drive that conversion.'
So in effect the days of the 400d are numbered (not surprising given the 450d in the range), and the 1000d is aentry level camera with slower spec than the 450d.
Model numbering system leaves a lot to be desired, but i suppose they are getting back to higher numbers mean lower spec ie 1d, 5d, 40d, 450d,1000d