With the introduction on the TL320 of the power efficient, Active Matrix Organic LED (AMOLED) technology, Samsung says the poor battery life that has always plagued all ultra-compacts will be a thing of the past. (We’ll see.) The one thing that is known about OLED screens versus LCDs are that they are brighter with more vibrant color, and images stay clearly visible even when viewed at extreme angles. Add to that 460,000 pixel high resolution and you have a fantastic image display that can be seen even in the brightest sunlight.

But that new screen is only as good as the camera it’s attached to. And Samsung hasn’t failed there either incorporating an effective 12.2 megapixel image sensor and an excellent Schneider-Kreuznach Varioplan 4.3-21.5mm f/2.8-7.3 5X zoom lens. Couple that with Samsung’s own optical and digital Dual Image Stabilization, Face Detection AF, a host of modes and presets including full manual–there’s even a custom-setable User mode, and you’ll get impressive, sharp, blur-free images even in the most difficult shooting situations.

Even though quite small, the TL320 is easy to operate and has an uncluttered control layout that is intuitive. The addition of a rubberized grip for the right hand makes it easy to hold and helps prevent errant fingers from covering the lens or flash.

All told, the Samsung TL320 will be a useful and worthwhile addition to anyone’s pocket or purse.