Facial recognition is fast becoming a standard feature on compact cameras. But Samsung’s latest camera purports to take the technology to new heights.

The nine-megapixel ST10 can recognise individual people by analysing faces as the shutter button is pressed, Samsung says.

The feature requires a little setting up. For example, you may have to take several snaps of Adam from different angles before the ST10 can automatically recognise him in future shots.

The technology also prioritises friends, family and the frequently photographed so that the camera's smile mode will only take photos of recognised faces when they’re grinning.

A 3in touch-sensitive display lurks at the back of the camera. The screen is equipped with haptic feedback (a technology more commonly seen on mobile phones such as LG's KP500) that sends out a light vibration each time an on-screen option is selected.

The ST10’s other features are fairly commonplace. The camera has 11 scene recognition modes, such as portrait and night, which can then be classified accordingly if, say, the only shots you want to see are those taken at night.

Samsung’s ST10 is available in the UK next month for £180 ($271/€199) ®.