We've known for some months now that Ferrari was preparing a mild update for its entry-level California model and today, the Italian automaker made it official releasing the first photos and specs ahead of the hardtop roadster's world premiere at next month's Geneva Auto Show.

While there aren't any noticeable styling changes other than the silver front grille, under the skin, it's a different story.

If, as the Chinese say, a picture is a thousand words, then a six-minute 1080p video is, at 30 frames per second, let’s see… about 10,800 words if our calculation is correct.

The following video by serial YouTube uploader Marchettino is therefore nearly 11,000 words of pure Ferrari California.

One of Germany's lesser-known tuning houses, DMC, has presented a new take on the Ferrari California hardtop roadster. Named the California 3S, the tune includes both cosmetic and performance upgrades and will receive its premiere at the Top Marques show in Macau from November 24 to 27.

The customization package brings a new carbon fiber aero kit that comprises of a front splitter and rear diffuser while the same material has also been used on the license plate surround. The car rides on a new set of rims (21-inches up front, 22-inches at the back) sourced from Miami-based wheel maker ADV1.

Aside from the Prancing Horse emblem, the clearly defined open-gate gearbox with the chromed lever sprouting from within was Ferrari’s second best distinguishable characteristic.

With the introduction of the 2012 MY California, this tradition comes to an end, at least in the UK. From now on, Ferrari is offering its British customers only one choice in the transmission department: that of an automatic.

Ferrari's engineers have been working overtime in the past year as the Italian company has several new or updated models in the pipeline, including a replacement for the 599 GTB Fiorano that we scooped last week, a new flagship Enzo model and a mild facelift for the California.

And if these fresh spy shots are anything to go by, Ferrari may also be readying a new addition to its California hardtop-roadster family.

As reported previously, the 2012 California that is expected early next year will be updated from within featuring a more powerful 4.3-liter V8 with around 490-horses, a faster transmission and a lighter chassis with upgraded suspension bits.

Not only did it boost the brand’s sales but it also succeeded in its original goal to bring in buyers who would only consider Aston Martins, Porsches and Bentleys as they found Ferraris to be impractical.

Now, according to CAR magazine, Ferrari’s front-engined V8 model is about to get a major overhaul for 2012, with production of the refreshed version beginning as early as January.

Ferrari is the last brand one would associate with anything related to driving in the snow, yet Maranello is constantly touting how fun its cars are in sub-zero temperatures and frosty conditions.

Following the recent presentation of the all-wheel drive FF shooting brake in the Italian Dolomites and the announcement of its “Pilota on Ice” U.S. driving program in Aspen, Colorado, Ferrari has released a video of the rear-wheel drive only California dancing on the snow during an event organized in St Moritz, Switzerland.

Those looking to give a more personal touch to their Ferrari California without…killing it, UK-based tuner Kahn has announced a new program for the Italian roadster.

On the styling front, Kahn's California wears a set of forged Monza wheels in matt black measuring 21-inches up front and 22-inches at the back. Inside, new accessories and equipment include seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and infotainment system.