I can't believe there aren't any leaked photos or datasheets etc for this.
Usually suppliers or news outlets slip up etc and stuff is searchable beforehand.
Anyone know what model number the new series is called?
Sworn to secrecy... Sorry.
It must be really, really good for everyone to be so tight lipped about it.
<cynic> For some reason I can't help thinking of those films that they don't let reviewers see in advance, which generally isn't because they expect good reviews..
</cynic>
But who knows the twisted logic of the marketing agency - they probably just want to get maximum press impact, and justify their outrageous marketing budget.
Other companies just give the kit to reviewers with the confidence that the product will speak for itself.
I don't know one way or the other, or care: I saved and spent for a 1054z so I'm not getting my hands on any shiny new stuff soon.
But if you're going to announce just another new scope (say, one that is based on all existing technology/asics/paradigms), you're right. But if you're going to make something really different (like someone suggested in this or another thread, that they are using something like nvidia parts or GPUs), then you probably wouldn't want to be sending them to reviewers.
But I think you're spot on re: marketing budgets, and why not. All departments justify themselves like that.