Canon News: EF 70-200 f/2.8 L IS USM II announced

After much rumour and anticipation, it's great to see that Canon have launched a new version of their L-series workhorse - the 70-200 f/2.8 L IS USM II. Although the current version is considered an excellent, versatile lens, Canon have raised the bar further.
The revised features include:

• Faster autofocus algorithm
• Minimum focus distance reduced to 1.2m
  
• Four-stops of IS (image stabilisation)
  
• A flourite element and 5 UD elements to minimise CA
• Added strength (with only a 20g increase in weight)
• A slightly redeisgned bayonet mount for securing the supplied lens hood
• A wider focussing ring

I currently have the lowest-spec version of the 4 L-series 70-200 lenses (the F/4 non IS version), so I'd love to upgrade one day.

Apparently available in the US from April, in the UK, I'd expect it to retail initially at around £1700, but soon setlle around the £1500 mark. ***UPDATE: 5th Jan - Warehouse Express have it as a pre-order for £2799 !!! And so do Park Cameras***

Press release available here.