Sony does two things very well: put big sensors into compact cameras and make those cameras fast.

The new RX10 Mark IV is a beneficiary of both Sony’s strengths. It boasts a 1-inch, 20-megapixel sensor and a burst rate of 24 fps with AF and AE tracking engaged. You can snap up to 249 JPEG images at a clip.

The RX10 series is Sony’s ultra-zoom family and, like its predecessor, the Mark IV features a built-in, image-stabilized 24-600mm f/2.4-4 (equivalent) lens. Image stabilization is good for 4.5 stops of correction, even at 600mm, Sony said.

The Mark IV is packed with 315 phase detect AF points and 25 contrast detect points covering 65 percent of the image area. It’s capable of focusing in as little as .03 seconds.

There are several AF options available on the Mark IV, including an AF limiter, an AF-A mode which automatically selects AF-S or AF-C mode based on shooting conditions, and AF-On which enables you to skip the half-press of the shutter to lock focus.

4K video recording is also available with phase detection AF and full pixel readout. The camera can also record super slow motion at 240, 480, 960 fps frame rates for up to 4 or 7 seconds.

The 3-inch display supports touch focusing and you can select focus points by sliding your finger across the display while looking through the EVF.

Additional features include:

• native ISO range of 100-12,800 (extendable to 64 and 25,600)
• top mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000 sec.
• electronic shutter up to 1/32,000 sec.
• built-in flash
• Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth
• 400 shot battery life

The RX10 Mark IV will retail for $1,700 and ships in October.

Sony is also making several improvements to its Imaging PRO Support service program.

Among the changes:

• a 24/7 domestic call center
• walk-in service centers in New York City and Los Angeles
• technical teams to provide field service at major sporting events, media events and shows across North America; service will include camera cleanings, evaluation loaners, education and seminars
• an expansion of Imaging PRO support into Canada

The program also offers dedicated email and call support, expedited three-day repair turnaround time, evaluation loaners, up to three free camera and lens maintenance services per year, complimentary shipping fees for repairs and access to members-only events throughout the year.

According to Sony, Imaging PRO Support membership has grown over 40 percent year over year–a testament to the company’s success at poaching pros from rival camera systems.

To qualify for Sony’s Imaging PRO Support service you must be a pro photographer with at least two full frame bodies and three Sony lenses.

It costs $100/year to use Imaging PRO Support and requires an application approved by Sony.