The built-in WiFi allows you to share your images and videos in several ways and also adds other functionality. With a free app for your Android or iOS device, you can wirelessly transfer videos and still directly from your camcorder to your smartphone. This also lets the phone to be used as a remote control and have its GPS data used for geotagging. You can also email your images directly from the camcorder and there’s a function called Video Email that lets you send 15-second video clips to up to eight email addresses.

The WiFi-enabled Everio also has additional capabilities like a Live Monitoring feature that lets you see in real-time on your smartphone or computer any images or videos taken with the camcorder. An Auto Photo Email feature automatically takes a still photo and emails it to you when it detects movement.

There are three main series in the lineup that breaks down into the E/EX series, the V/VX series, and the GX series. The E/EX models offer simple point-and-shoot functionality great for beginners. The V/VX models steps it up with a sleeker design and higher grade materials such as an aluminum panel LCD door and front panel. It also adds more features like Hi-Speed Recording, Super Slow, and Motor Drive for rapid-fire stills. The top of line Everio is the GX model that records in 1920×1080 Full HD at 60P and shoots 11-megapixel stills.

The WB850F (pictured above) is a world-class travel camera boasting a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, 21x zoom, and Full HD 1080p video capture, while the WB150F features a 14.1-megapixel sensor and 18x zoom. The ST200F has a 16-megapixel sensor, 10x zoom, and is extremely compact and pocketable.

The DV300F is Samsung’s new DualView offering that features a 1.5-inch front-facing LCD viewer, perfect for self-portraits. And for the line-up’s camcorders, there’s the compact QF20 that features a swivel viewer and Full HD 1080p video recording.

Images and video captured can be directly uploaded from the cameras to Facebook, Picasa, or Photobucket through Samsung’s Social Sharing feature. The images can also be saved to Samsung’s free AllShare Play cloud storage or Microsoft’s SkyDrive as well as emailed to family and friends using the camera’s onscreen keyboard to type in messages.

Additional features include Samsung’s Remote Viewfinder that lets your remotely compose a shot via a connected smartphone. Photos on the cameras can also be automatically backed up directly to your home PC. Pricing and availability for the new lineup have not been announced yet.

Even on a hi-def monitor, we just can’t show you that resolution, but we included the sample video anyway. The video was shot with the Scarlet’s 8x fixed lens. This music video style clip can give you an idea of what this camera is capable of. For those that don’t know, that would certainly include slow motion.

Like other modular cameras from RED, the Scarlet “brain” can be purchased on its own or in a bundle. The bundle is supposed to include the brain, a fixed 8x zoom, CF module, 2.8-inch touchscreen, REDmote, a battery and a travel charger, for $5,750. The brain alone is estimated at $3,750. So, if your budget can afford the price tag, you too can shoot family videos in slow motion or broadcast quality high definition.

<via> engadget

• Full-HD Shooting with a 3-Meter Waterproof, 1.5-Meter Shockproof and Dustproof Design
• 3.0 inch LCD
• Tripod stand included for self-portraits
• 4x Digital Zoom
• Face Detection
• 8-megapixel still picture recording
• Simultaneous linear PCM sound recording with still pictures
• Three playback effects: sepia/monochrome/soft skin
• Direct connection to high-definition TVs with a single HDMI cable

Panasonic is also introducing the TA2 HD Mobile Camera, but as far as we can tell from their website, it has the same features as the TA20.

The WA10 pistol grip camcorder has full-HD 1920 x 1080p resolution, and 16 megapixel still image recording. It can also record in the MPEG-4 AVC file format (MP4).

Features:

• Waterproof to 3 meters for up to 60 minutes (must be in dry conditions for more than 10 minutes after 60 min water exposure)
• BSI (Backside Illumination Sensor), for shooting in dimly lit areas
• Can take still photos while shooting a movie without changing modes
• 2.7 -inch wide TFT LCD monitor
• Optical 5x zoom/12x Advanced zoom for movie recording.
• Electrical Image Stabilizer

Panasonic is also releasing the HX-DC10 and the HX-DC1. The HX-DC10 has Full-HD11 video shooting with BSI Sensor, 16-Megapixel still picture recording. The HX-DC1 features Full HD Recording in MP4 Format, 14-megapixel still picture recording 3.0-inch Wide TFT LCD Monitor.

[via Panasonic]

That’s still not exactly cheap, but then there’s not much in the way of competition on the market at the moment. The GS-TD1 is the first consumer camcorder to record 3D in Full HD resolution, using a pair of 3.32-megapixel CMOS sensors, each capable of 1920 x 1080i, and the new Falconbird processor.

There’s also a glasses-free LCD preview display with a touchscreen for controlling the major features, and a 10x optical zoom. All impressive stuff, and we won’t argue a $300 cut ahead of its sales debut.

[Thanks Andy!]

As with other RED cameras, Scarlet will be a modular model capable of shooting 3k video or higher.  Pricing for the Scarlet “brain” was original expected to be $2,750 – now increased to $3,750 – while RED also plan a Scarlet 8X Fixed bundle which would include the brain, a fixed 8x zoom, CF module, 2.8-inch touchscreen, REDmote, a battery and a travel charger, for $4,750.  That will presumably rise to $5,750.

[Thanks Matt!]

I-O Data has announced a new portable hard drive that is designed to not only back up data from your PC, but to store that video from your camcorder easily. The drive is designed to plug into any Sanyo Xacti, JVC Everio, or Sony Handicam to store the video from the devices.

Another cool little feature of the device is that once that video is on the HDPN-U500/V HDD you can watch the video from the HDD on your TV. The video is not played directly from the HDD though. You have to connect the HDD to the camcorder for playback. The drive is set to launch in Japan at the end of September for 16,000 yen. No word on pricing or availability elsewhere.

Both camcorders can record Full HD 1080 (1920 x 1080/30p), HD 720 (1280 x 720/60p), iFrame (960 x 540/30p) and Quarter High Definition (960 x 540/30p), as well as time-lapse footage, and have HDMI ports for direct hook-ups to your HDTV.  Storage is via SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot – with Eye-Fi compatibility – while there’s a 4x zoom and, on the WP10, an MP3 recorder for creating audio files.

Both PICSIO models come preloaded with LoiLoScope EX for Windows, a simple editing and upload app.  They’ll go on sale next month, with the GC-FM2 dropping early in the month for $179.95 and the GC-WP10 arriving late in the month for $199.95.

Press Release:

TWO NEW JVC PICSIO POCKET CAMERAS OFFER EASY VIDEO AND PHOTO SHARING

Features include 3-inch touch screen, plug & share convenience, Full HD recording, improved low-light performance and waterproof versatility

WAYNE, NJ, August 24, 2010 －Two JVC pocket cameras announced today bring a new level of fun and ease-of-use to making and sharing videos and photos. The new PICSIO pocket cameras, the GC-WP10 and GC-FM2, both feature Full HD video, excellent low-light performance, a three-inch touch screen for easy operation and playback viewing, and compatibility with Eye-Fi cards for Wi-Fi connectivity. And for the ultimate in versatility, the PICSIO GC-WP10 is waterproof.

To produce stunning photos, PICSIO’s CMOS image sensor captures stills at up to five-megapixel native resolution without interpolation. It also records up to 1920 x 1080p/30 fps Full HD video with image stabilization for enjoyment on an HDTV via the camera’s HDMI output. Users can select from four different recording resolutions: Full HD 1080 (1920 x 1080/30p), HD 720 (1280 x 720/60p), iFrame (960 x 540/30p) and Quarter High Definition (960 x 540/30p). The new PICSIO cameras also offer time-lapse recording, which reduces hours-long segments to mere seconds.

Perhaps the most prominent feature on the PICSIO cameras is the three-inch touch screen with on-screen graphics for shooting and playback controls, including the 4x digital zoom. What’s more, the touch screen functions are easily operated even when wearing gloves for all-season fun. The large screen also enhances playback, with a large, clear image that makes it easy for all to enjoy what was recorded.

For easy editing and uploading, LoiLoScope EX for Windows® software is factory installed. This new software offers quick, intuitive editing and direct uploading to YouTube™ and Facebook, exporting to iTunes® and more. It can launch immediately when the camera is connected to virtually any PC. The uploading process, including editing, entails just a few easy steps. A full array of special effects is available for creative editing, supported by simplified icon-based access and intuitive drag-and-drop operation. Windows 7 Multi-Touch is supported, so operation via any compatible PC touch screen is possible. File output for DVD creation is also available.

Both PICSIO pocket cameras work with iMovie on the Mac. The two cameras also offer the option to record video in the iFrame format, a computer-friendly video format designed to dramatically simplify the process of editing and sharing video. iFrame works with compatible Mac and PC applications.

The new PICSIO cameras come with an SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot for versatile storage. The slot is optimized for Eye-Fi cards, so files can be quickly uploaded and shared using a wireless network.

The GC-FM2’s special conveniences include a slide-out USB connector, so no connecting cable is needed. As a convenience, a USB cable is provided and an AC adaptor is available optionally. Both models are charged through their USB connection so the cameras are ready to shoot more after transferring files.

The PICSIO GC-WP10 is waterproof to a depth of 10 feet/3 meters (IPX8 certified) for worry-free recording underwater, on the slopes or in the rain. The GC-WP10 also comes with a MP3 audio recorder to capture everything from lectures to jam sessions in stereo.

The JVC PICSIO GC-FM2 will be available in early September for $179.95. The JVC PICSIO GC-WP10 will be available in late September for $199.95.

Colorware started spraying colors on the flanks of the Mac Mini back in late July for Apple fans looking for something different. The company is now making the popular little Flip Ultra camcorder brighter with custom paint.

If you already own a Flip Ultra that you can live without for about three weeks you can get your own painted for $50. If you need a new camcorder and want it painted up, you can get that for $210. The camera you buy from Colorware has 4GB of internal storage, a 2-inch screen, and records H.264 video at 640 x 480 resolution.

Control, meanwhile, is via a spattering of simple hardware buttons and a 2.7-inch touchscreen display.  Plug it into your PC and up pops Samsung intelli-studio, a simple editing suite that also includes uploading tools to get your new content off to YouTube or other media sharing sites.

Finally there are plenty of digital effects – including tilt-shift and Lomo – together with an HDMI port and microSD card slot.  It’ll drop in September 2010, in black or white, priced at $199.99.

Press Release:

SAMSUNG INTRODUCES POCKET-SIZED, FULL-HD CAMCORDER WITH SWIVELING LENS

HMX-E10 Adds Style and Flexibility to Samsung’s Growing Camcorder Family, Allowing Consumers to Picture Themselves in the Fun

Ridgefield Park, NJ (July 28, 2010) – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today added to its point-and-shoot camcorder lineup with the introduction of the innovative HMX-E10. Offering full-HD resolution, the Samsung HMX-E10 is highlighted by a versatile, 270-degree swiveling lens that enhances consumers’ creativity and allows them to add their own unique views to their video by being able to record from just about any angle. The HMX-E10’s swiveling lens also brings a new sense of fun to recording video, and gives consumers the ability to step out from behind the camcorder and put themselves in the frame with their friends and family.
Samsung has also strived to simplify the way consumers share content with others through the HMX-E10, with the innovative built-in USB port function. The USB feature enables users to connect the camcorder directly to any computer without added attachments like a USB cable, allowing consumers to share important moments wherever they are. The USB connection can also be used to charge the battery.
“Samsung is focused on introducing features to its camcorders which address unmet needs and take the video recording experience to new levels for consumers,” said Sangjin Park, President of the Digital Imaging Business, Samsung Electronics. “The HMX-E10 offers the image quality, ultra-compact design and built-in USB technology that consumers expect from this class of camcorder, but goes a step beyond, offering features such as a swiveling lens, versatile LCD screen and a range of smart filters, which give users the ability to do more and express their creativity.”

Easy Connectivity and Sharing
Samsung designed the HMX-E10 to help simplify the way consumers share their content with others. The camcorder features a built-in USB connection that gives users the ability to connect the camcorder to any computer without having to worry about always carrying around a separate USB cable. In addition, the HMX-E10 is also loaded with Samsung’s play edit sharing program, called intelli studio. This intuitive program gives users the ability to edit and play their video from any computer without having to install supporting software. This is extremely useful when traveling or when consumers are away from the own personal computers.
An interactive and onscreen “upload” button on the HMX-E10 also makes uploading footage to the Web effortless. When connected to a computer with an internet connection, the one-touch “upload” button links directly to a specified content sharing Web site, such as YouTube™, and reduces the number of steps needed to successfully upload and share video.

High-Performance Sensor and Versatile Display
At the heart of the HMX-E10 is a large, high-performance 1/3.2 inch CMOS sensor that captures impressive 1920×1080 full HD resolution video (30p / H.264) as well as eight mega pixel digital still images. On the back of the camcorder is a versatile, 2.7-inch wide, touch screen LCD that is set vertically. When recording video, the HMX-E10’s LCD screen is divided into two sections; the top displays the live view showing what is currently in the frame and the bottom displays a series of touch-screen controls, including record, stop and play. Consumers can even rotate the swivel lens to utilize this screen to put themselves in the frame, allowing them to step out from behind the camcorder and become part of the action. When reviewing footage, consumers hold the HMX-E10 horizontally, so that they can leverage the entire display to view their video in widescreen.

Creative Controls
The HMX-E10 is packed with a full range of fun controls which encourage consumers to get creative with their videos. Consumers can take advantage of several Smart Filters which adjust the HMX-E10 to produce unique lens and color effects. The camcorder’s lens effects include miniature, which produces the tilt and lens shift effect, and vignetting, which produces the lomo effect. Color effects include defog, which mimics the use of a CPL filter, and sketch, which gives video a pencil drawing feel.

The camera weighs 0.41 pounds making it very light indeed. The lens of the cam is a 35.8mm wide-angle unit and it has 23x intelligent zoom with the capability of being used for video calls with Skype. Other features include hybrid optical image stabilization with both optical and electric stabilization.

The SDX1 has an auto focus and auto exposure tracking system to allow it to lock onto subjects and adjust optimally to keep them clear in video. The lock function is activated by touching the 2.7-inch LCD screen. Weight is 229 grams for the camera, battery, and the SD card. The MSRP for the SDX1 will be $499.95 and it will ship in September.

The camera is called the Panasonic HM-TA1 and it is available in black, red, gray, and purple colors. The camera is designed to make uploading video to sharing sites like YouTube and Facebook a snap. The camera also supports Apple iFrame video format for Mac users. The cam has electric image stabilization and 4x digital zoom.

The camera is small and compact measuring in at 2.09″ W x 0.70″ D x 4.09″ H and it weighs a quarter of a pound with the battery and SD card inside. The camcorder ships with a wrist strap and has easy to use individual buttons for record, power, plat, LED on/off, and still photos. Other features include support for SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and it has a 2-inch LCD and integrated USB port. The TA1 will ship in August for $169.95.

However, the device is actually a camera that can take still images and video. The camera captures video in color with AVI format and the still shots are taken in JPEG format. It has a 2GB microSD card inside for up to 25 minutes of video. That storage can be upgraded with an 8GB microSD card.

The video is recorded in 720 x 480 resolution in full 30 fps motion. The bit rate for the video is 6500 kbps. The RemoteCam measures 2″ x 1.2″ x 0.5″ and weighs less than an ounce. You can pick one up for $99.99 right now.

The Aiptek 3D is a budget-centric mini-camcorder, which much like Flip Mino’s out there, utilized a USB interface. The 3D is capable of recording in 3D thanks to dual lenses, and a pair of 5MP CMOS sensors, both of which record at 720p HD. There’s an integrated 2.4-inch 3D panel on the back of the new gadget from Aiptek, which gets rid of the need for glasses. If that’s the only place you want to watch it, of course. The company was nice enough to include the red and cyan-tinged glasses in the box, just in case you want to watch it on your 3D-equipped PC.

You can also upload your 3D videos to YouTube, if you like, so that you can share the 3D glory with everyone you know. Aiptek suggested that the retail price for their 3D camcorder would be somewhere in the ballpark of $200, so that’s not bad at all considering the specs. Plus, that’s a steal compared to some other models out there. Of course, you’ll have to figure out if you really, really love the fascination with 3D over the past few months, before you drop your money down for it. And do you really want to shove 3D down your friends’ and family’s throat?

[via CNET]

The camera is called the DMX-CA100 and it will launch at the end of June. The camera will be offered in black, yellow, and pink colors and pricing is not yet announced. The camera is capable of being underwater at up to 3 meters for up to an hour meeting IPX8 standards. The resolution is 1920 x 1080 and video is recorded in MPEG-4 AVC and H.264 formats.

In addition to recording 1080p video, the camera can also shoot 14MP still shots and has high-speed sequential shooting mode that can take 22 photos in a row at seven frames per second. To hit that speed photos at shot in 2MP resolution. The camera also has up to 12x zoom.

When the Q3 first debuted it carried a MSRP of $249. Zoom has announced that it is now cutting the price of the camcorder to $199. The Q3 keeps the same features at the new price including the 24-bit/48kHz sound.

The camcorder is the only point and shoot on the market capable of dealing with high decibel levels like those that you would find at a concert or a birthday party filled with little girls. The camcorder also features a built-in USB cable, MPEG-4 SP video format, a resolution of 640 x 480 for video and it records to SDHC cards.

That’s if you’re recording to an SxS memory card onboard the EX3; if you’re filming in a fixed position then the donor cameras can also output uncompressed 4:4:4 video via a pair of HD-SDI outputs.  According to Engadget’s 3D-knowledgeable tipster, the gap – or lack of it – between the two lenses is also impressive, potentially an “industry-first 1.5-inch interocular distance.”

All impressive stuff – if more than a little out of the realm of home users – but there’s no sign of a release schedule or pricing.  Given a Sony PMW-EX3 will set you back $9,990 on its own (and remember there’s the magic of two of them in this prototype) we’re not holding our breath for a cheap camcorder.

A new camera for this type of video fan has turned up called the X170 Action Camera. The camera is a rugged device that comes with mounting options that will allow the user to attach it to a helmet, goggle strap, handlebars, and other locations. The camera can record full motion 30 fps video in 720 x 480 resolution.

It can also capture 5MP still shots and has a wireless remote with a range of 5 meters. A small 1.5-inch LCD screen is built in for watching recorded video. Storage is 32MB and the camera gets power from a pair of AA batteries. A SD card slot is built-in for memory expansion. The lens can also be rotated 300-degress to align the best shot for the mounting location.

RED keeps their promises, too. Promised earlier in the year that they would be showing off a functioning RED EPIC at NAB 2010, they’ve done just that. The professional camera took 13 seconds to actually boot up, but as soon as it did, the crazy goodness began. Meaning, it was perfectly capable of shooting at its 5K resolution, even if it wasn’t given a full test run at the showing.

That shouldn’t be a big deal for most, as RED has shown in the past that the RED EPIC’s upgraded sensor is fully capable of besting previous 4K camera’s –the RED ONE– light sensitivity. You can preorder the EPIC right now, if you’re an existing owner of a RED professional camera, and it’s still on schedule for a July launch this year. Anyone out there in the film industry going to pick one of the new cameras up? And are you going to trade in your old RED ONE to get the newer, better piece of equipment?

[via RED]

The FS-CF and FS-CF Pro DTE recorders are compatible with Canon’s line of HDV and Mini-DV camcorders. The devices support 1080 24F, 25F, and 30F with 50i and 60i frame rates in QuickTime and M2T formats. The device also support 1080i 60 and 50 in MXF OP Atom format.

The point of the devices is to allow pro camera crews in the field to offload video recorded directly on CF cards in their camcorders to the FS-CF devices for storage. The Pro version has a color LCD that can be used to play the content back and logs metadata wirelessly during recording. Both will ship later this month with the FS-CF selling for $995 and the FS-CF Pro selling for $1295.

Video demo after the cut

Storage is courtesy of 64GB of internal memory – good for up to 6hrs at top quality – with an SD/SDHC card slot to augment it.  ISO up to 6400 is supported, and there’s an automatic flash and various manual controls which, when set, can be saved to a user-programmable preset button.

Timelapse recording is possible, as is super-fast 600fps video, and JVC reckon the HM1 is particularly proficient at low-light recording.  It’s available now, priced at $1,199.95.

Press Release:

FLAGSHIP AMONG JVC HD EVERIO CAMERAS NOW AVAILABLE

New GZ-HM1 Full HD camera boasts gains in low light performance, image stabilization and still image quality.

WAYNE, NJ, April 6, 2010 – A new top-end JVC HD Everio video camera is now available, JVC announced today. The new GZ-HM1 HD Everio offers a full slate of technologies to optimize picture quality and an array of manual controls for creative flexibility. The GZ-HM1 offers performance improvements in three key areas — low light performance, camera-shake compensation and digital still quality. As a result, the GZ-HM1, which offers 64GB of internal storage and an SD/SDHC card slot, is the ideal camera for video enthusiasts and semi-professionals.

In the area of low light performance, the GZ-HM1 provides superior results thanks to a new CMOS sensor that boosts sensitivity to four Lux (compared to nine Lux for the previous GZ-HM400) for brilliant recording of 1920 x 1080 Full HD video, with 1080/60p output through the HDMI connection. In camera shake compensation, JVC made improvements in wide angle performance, an area not typically addressed. While most stabilization efforts focus on effectiveness in high zoom ratios, camera shake also occurs at wide angle settings, especially when the camera user is moving along with the subject. In the new GZ-HM1, JVC uses prism technology to provide effective results at the wide angle end of the zoom range. And for better still image quality, the GZ-HM1 delivers real 10 megapixel stills for detailed images.

The GZ-HM1′s 1/2.3-inch 10.62 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor dramatically increases sensitivity, enabling recording of high quality images even in low-light locations. Back-illumination technology moves the circuitry within the CMOS chip to a layer behind the photo diodes, avoiding loss of incoming light that occurs with conventional CMOS sensors. This efficient gathering of light increases the ability to obtain visual information, which translates into higher picture quality being available at the camera even in low light situations. The KONICA MINOLTA HD LENS is currently one of the world’s smallest and slimmest HD lenses, and offers 10x optical zoom.

A new optical image stabilization system with Advanced Image Stabilizer provides effective camera-shake compensation in a variety of situations. The camera’s optical image stabilization system uses two prisms within the lens housing to optically compensate for vertical and lateral camera shake. Together they are able to effectively reduce the effects of shake in any direction. This JVC system is enhanced by the company’s Advanced Image Stabilizer that improves compensation, especially in the wide angle range, providing a stable image even if the user is walking while shooting.

The camera’s 10.62 megapixel CMOS sensor allows the GZ-HM1 to shoot real 10 megapixel stills with ISO6400 sensitivity for pristine digital stills with high resolution, even if the lighting is less than ideal. The densely packed pixels of the CMOS sensor translate into smooth and realistic images without any sense of pixilation or gaps between pixels, for a look similar to film photography. ISO6400 high sensitivity is assurance that even in dark situations the image will look sharp and detailed. For further assistance in shooting in low light, the GZ-HM1 includes an automatic flash.

To meet the needs of the more demanding video enthusiast, the GZ-HM1 offers an array of manual controls. These include a manual adjustment dial that, among other functions, allows easy and precise manual focus. Other manual controls include selection of shutter or aperture priority shooting, and bracket shooting. In addition, there’s a user-programmable button for storing frequently used settings.

To ensure the best possible audio recording, there’s a microphone input, audio level control and headphone output. There’s also a top-mounted accessory shoe.

The GZ-HM1 also offers creative shooting functions, including time-lapse recording, available in all 2010 Everio cameras, to easily record in intervals ranging from one to 80 seconds. When played back, hours-long segments are reduced to mere seconds. Also available is high-speed recording at up to 600 frames per second, allowing ultra-slow motion playback for observation and analysis, such as a golf swing.

Digital files created with this new Everio camera can be easily shared in a variety of popular formats with the enhanced Everio MediaBrowser software for Windows®, which now provides automatic conversion of HD videos for immediate sharing on YouTube™ at HD or SD resolution. Files also can be directly exported to iTunes® and synced with an iPod® or iPhone®, or burned to DVD, all with just a few mouse clicks using the same Everio MediaBrowser application.

The JVC GZ-HM1 will be available in March for $1,199.95.

About JVC U.S.A.
JVC U.S.A., headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey, is a division of JVC Americas Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Victor Company of Japan Ltd. JVC distributes a complete line of video and audio equipment for the consumer and professional markets. For further product information, visit JVC’s Web site at http://www.jvc.com or call 1-800-526-5308. Follow JVC on Twitter: http://twitter.com/JVC_USA.

Each uses digital image stabilization and has a distinctive “seven degree” angled grip which apparently is more comfortable for longer periods of recording.  Samsung’s own intelli-studio 2.0 editing and processing software is stored on-board the camcorder itself, ready to be booted up whenever it’s plugged into a USB port.

Both measure 4.09 x 2.1 x 0.61 inches and have 2-inch LCD preview displays.  As well as regular filming, they can be set to shoot images every 1, 5, 10 or 30 seconds.  Both will be available in spring this year, priced at $229.99 for the U15 and $249.99 for the U20.

Press Release:

NEW SAMSUNG ULTRA-COMPACT CAMCORDERS MAKE IT EASY TO CAPTURE AND SHARE HIGH-DEFINITION VIDEO

HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 Offer Full HD Video, Built-in USB and HDMI Connectivity

Anaheim, CA (February 20, 2010) – Samsung Electronics America, Inc., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, today extended its family of ultra-compact camcorders with the introduction of two new models, the HMX-U20 and the HMX-U15. Building on the success of the Samsung HMX-U10, the new HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 bring new features and functionality to Samsung’s ultra-compact camcorder family, such as a built-in USB connection, which now makes it easier than ever to not only record, but share full HD video with others. Adding even more, the new HMX-U20 now puts a true 3x optical zoom in the palm of consumers’ hands, allowing for additional creativity when recording life’s special memories. Both the HMX-U20 and HMX U15 will be on display during PMA 2010, February 21-23, in the Samsung booth, #2227, in the Anaheim Convention Center.
“Thanks to consumers’ demand for portability and ease-of-use, the ultra-compact camcorder category has exploded in growth,” said Mr. SangRyong Kim, Senior Vice President of Camcorder Team, Samsung Electronics. “The new HMX U20 and HMX-U15 offer not only portability and ease-of-use but also a number of versatile features like time-lapse recording that allow users to easily capture and share life’s important moments the way they see them.”

High-Quality Video and Digital Stills
The HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 come fully equipped with high-performing 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensors which help capture stunning, 1920×1080 full HD resolution video (30p / H.264). In addition, the ultra compact HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 also boast impressive digital still image capability. With the HMX U20, consumers can capture 10 mega-pixel digital still images, while the HMX-U15 shoots 14 mega-pixel digital still images. This impressive digital still capability eliminates the need for consumers to carry a separate digital camera as everything they’ll need is in one, ultra-compact device. The camcorders also include Hyper Digital Image Stabilization to help produce blur-free video and the HMX U20 adds even more versatility with a true 3x optical zoom. Consumers can also get creative with their video thanks to fun and unique features such as time lapse recording, which allows users to program the camcorder to record at a pre-set interval of one image every one, five, 10 or 30 seconds. Time lapse recording is especially useful for condensing extremely long events, such as rolling clouds on a sunny day, into a short, easy to-view video.

Easy Connectivity
The HMX-U20’s and HMX-U15’s built-in, swing-out style USB connection gives users the ability to forego having to always carry a separate USB cable to connect and upload footage to a computer. The built-in USB connection can also recharge the camcorder’s battery, eliminating the need to transport a separate charger while on-the-go. Furthermore, the HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 offer HDMI connectivity, allowing consumers to enjoy their full HD video on their HDTV.
The HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 also feature Samsung’s play edit sharing program, called intelli studio. This intuitive program allows consumers to turn any computer into a mobile studio, giving them the ability to edit and play their video without having to install supporting software. Sharing is also simplified thanks to a one-touch “upload” button on the HMX-U20 and HMX-U15. When connected to a computer with an internet connection, the one-touch “upload” button links directly to popular destinations such as YouTube™, reducing the number of steps needed to upload footage to content sharing Web sites.
Designed for Portability and Comfort
The Samsung HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 are extremely portable with dimensions of just 2.1” x .61” x 4.09”. In addition to their compact size, the HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 are also highlighted by a unique design that’s as ergonomic as it is stylish. Designed to make the camcorders more comfortable to hold, the camcorders’ bodies are angled at seven degrees which encourages a more natural grip reducing overall stress on the user’s wrist and arm.

Panasonic has set suggested retail prices for the HDC-TM55 ($530), HDC-HS60 ($700), HDC-SD60 ($500) camcorders, in addition to the pint-sized  SDR-HD85 ($350), SDR-T50 ($270) and SDR-S50 ($250) models.

We first saw the variety of models back at CES of this year, and Panasonic has confirmed that all six models will all be available by mid-March 2010.

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR 2010 STANDARD DEFINITION CAMCORDERS AND COMPACT-SIZED HD MODELS

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 9, 2010) – Panasonic today announces pricing for its compact High Definition models, the HDC-TM55, HDC-HS60 and HDC-SD60, and its full-featured standard definition camcorders, the SDR-H85, SDR-T50, SDR-S50. All six models will be available in mid-March 2010.

The Panasonic full-HD camcorders will be available for suggested retail prices (SRP) of $529.95 for the HDC-TM55; $699.95 for the HDC-HS60 and $499.95 for the HDC-SD60. The three Panasonic HD camcorders feature a 35.7mm wide-angle lens and a powerful 25x optical zoom. And with Panasonic’s new Intelligent Zoom feature, the new HD camcorders can extend to a 35x zoom. Intelligent Zoom corrects image degradation in ordinary digital zooming to deliver stunningly clear HD quality, even with the zoom fully extended. All camcorders record to SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards, while the HDC-TM55 also has 8 GB* of internal memory and the HDC-HS60 has a Hard Disk Drive that holds up to 120 GB.

Panasonic’s standard definition camcorders will have SRPs of $349.95 for the SDR-H85; $269.95 for the SDR-T50; and $249.95 for the SDR-S50. These camcorders may be small in size, but they have impressive features: a 33mm wide-angle and a long, powerful 78x ultra zoom – giving them remarkable range for capturing video both far and wide. Panasonic’s new camcorder models are packed with enhanced features to help make shooting quality video easy, including the new Active mode for the Advanced O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), helping to suppress blur even if the user is moving and when the long zooms are extended. Like the HD camcorder models, these models all record to SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. Additionally, the SDR-H85 has an 80 GB hard disk drive, and the SDR-T50 has 4 GB of built-in memory.

For more information on all Panasonic LUMIX digital camera models, please visit www.panasonic.com/dvc.

* GB = 1,073,741,824 bytes.

The HS700 sports a 240GB hard disk drive, and the TM700, 32GB of flash-based memory.   Both models include SD / SDHC / SDXC memory card expansion, new 35mm wide-angle Leica lenses, 12x optical zoom and a gryo-sensor based Power O.I.S. optical image stabilization to reduce blurring.  14.2 megapixel still shots and 5.1 surround sound are featured on both the HS700 and TM700.

Considered the next step after the 300 series by Panasonic, both models haven’t been priced yet, but “Pricing and availability for the Panasonic HDC-HS700 and HDC-TM700 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date.  Both will be available in black.”

PANASONIC’S NEW 3MOS HD CAMCORDERS PRODUCE TRUE-TO-LIFE COLOR AND EXCEL IN LOW-LIGHT ENVIRONMENTS

New 35mm Wide-Angle Leica Lenses, 18x Intelligent Zoom and Manual Controls Make HS700 and TM700 Perfect for Professional-Quality Video Shooting

SECAUCUS, NJ (February 9, 2010) – Panasonic today introduces two additions to its 2010 line of camcorders, the Panasonic HDC-HS700 and HDC-TM700, both Full High Definition (HD) 3MOS camcorders with 1920 x 1080 resolution. The new Panasonic HD camcorders combine 1080/60p recording – allowing them to capture expressive video without detail loss or Moiré pattern – with an advanced 3MOS system that produces vivid, true-to-life colors and excels in darkly-lit environments. The new HDC-HS700, records both to its large 240 GB* Hard Disk Drive or to an SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card. The HDC-TM700 has 32 GB of built-in memory as well as capability to record to SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards, and is the successor to last year’s popular and award-winning HDC-TM300. Both models have a 35mm wide-angle Leica lens and a manual ring for creative flexibility.

“For video enthusiasts looking for a feature-rich, high-performing, yet affordable High Definition Camcorder, Panasonic’s new TM700 and HS700 3MOS models will be a hit this year,” said Chris Rice, Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Last year’s TM300 was extremely popular and won several honors and awards for its video quality and performance, so with the improvements we have made with the TM700/HS700, including extended zoom, wider-angles and a more advanced image stabilization system, we are excited to give consumers the ideal tool they need to capture their memories with superb quality.”

The high-sensitivity 3MOS system provides an effective video image pixel count of 7,590,000 pixels (2,530,000 pixels x 3) and separates the light received through the lens into the three primary colors – red, green and blue – processing each independently. The sensor shoots 14.2-megapixel still images (in Still Image mode) and 13.3-megapixel still images from recorded video. Even with this high pixel count, newly developed technology increases sensitivity and reduces noise by one-half to achieve vivid images with minimal noise. As a result, Panasonic’s 3MOS system enables excellent color reproduction, high resolution, rich gradation, and lets the user capture vividly colored images in bright or darkly-lit places.

The Panasonic HDC-TM700 and HDC-HS700 HD camcorders feature the newly designed, large-diameter F1.5 (46mm) Leica Dicomor lens, which provides the superb image rendering and not only suppresses ghosts and flare, but also minimizes the distortion and degradation of contrast and resolution. In addition, its 35mm** wide-angle capability makes it ideal for many different shooting situations, such as self-portraits, group photos, and landscape shots.

Both models feature a 12x optical zoom lens, which is further enhanced by Intelligent Resolution Technology to extend the zoom to an 18x Intelligent Zoom. The Intelligent Zoom corrects image degradation in ordinary digital zooming, extending the camera’s zoom ration to approximately 1.3x, while maintaining the image quality, thus delivering stunningly clear full-HD images***.

Both models feature a 3.0″ touch-screen LCD that allows users to navigate by selecting icons on the display. These models also have a manual ring allowing creative flexibility, so users have intuitive control of the zoom, focus, aperture, shutter speed and white balance. An Electronic View Finder, earphone terminal and microphone terminal allow for even more control. The HDC-HS700 records to its 240 GB HDD, which can store 102 hours of recording (in HE mode). When combined with Panasonic’s new 64 GB SDXC Memory Card, the camcorder provides an additional recording time of 27 hours and 30 minutes. The HDC-TM700 has a 32 GB built-in memory for 13 hours and 40 minutes of recording (in HE mode).

Other features of the Panasonic HDC-HS700 and HDC-TM700 include:

* Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) – Uses gyro sensors to detect hand-shake to reduce blurring. When the camcorder is held, it moves at low frequency due to the breathing of the operator or other slight movement. POWER O.I.S. corrects even the slightest movement approximately five times more effectively than the previous version.
* iA (Intelligent Auto) – Function that automatically selects the most suitable shooting mode at the press of a button, and this year iA adds Face Recognition, which finds the faces of registered people and automatically optimizes the focus and exposure for them. In addition, the camcorder continues to track this subject as the person moves anywhere within the LCD frame. Up to six faces can be registered.
* Smile Shot – Feature that automatically takes a still photo during video recording when it detects a smiling face.
* 5.1-Channel Surround Sound System with Zoom Microphone – Uses five microphones so when voices/sounds recorded from front, right, left and back are played back on a 5.1-channel home theatre system, viewers are surrounded by clear, detailed sound. The Zoom Microphone lets users zoom the sound only to hear the subject while continuing to record a wide-angle shot.
* Wind Noise Canceller – An evolution from the previous wind noise reduction system, this advanced function automatically detects and suppresses wind noise only, to ensure only the natural sounds of the shooting environment remain.
* Auto Power LCD – Automatically adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen according to the shooting environment. In dark places, the screen brightness is reduced to 1/3 the normal level to minimize the possibility of disturbing nearby people. In bright outdoor places, the screen brightness is increased to twice the normal level.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic HDC-HS700 and HDC-TM700 will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. Both will be available in black.

* GB = 1,073,741,824 bytes. Usable capacity will be less.

** 35mm-lens equivalent.

*** Approximately 810 TV lines. 1920 horizontal pixels x 1080 vertical pixels.

Updated with video after the cut

Head-on (and in Sanyo’s own press shots) the VPC-SH1 doesn’t look so skinny, but view it from above or below and you can see how much of the barrel the company have removed.  The end result is a camcorder that fits snugly into the palm of your hand, something which makes supporting the large LCD preview display without shaking a little more straightforward.

We’ll have to spend a little more time with the two camcorders to know how well they perform in terms of recording.  Unfortunately both use digital rather than optical image stabilization, something that has been criticized in previous XACTI models for introducing odd juddering and artefacts.  Smaller chassis also mean less space for optics, especially in the case of the CS1.

Still, there’s a lot to be said for a camcorder you can comfortably slip into your jeans pocket, and there’s no doubting that these are two of the most attractive XACTI models to date.

Sanyo XACTI VPC-CS1 demo:

Advanced technologies introduced by Sony include expanding its back-illuminated “Exmor R” CMOS sensor to all HD models,  improving Optical Steady Shot™ image stabilization with Active Mode, leveraging its high-speed BIONZ^® imaging processor to create new features like Golf Shot and Intelligent Auto (iAuto), and many more.  The HDR-XR150, HDR-CX150, and HDR-CX110 will be available in late January for about $700, $550, and $500, respectively.  The HDR-XR550V, HDR-CX550V, HDR-XR350V, HDR-CX350V and HDR-CX300 will be available in late February for about $1400, $1300, $1000, $900, and $800, respectively.

Sony is also expanding its line of solid state camcorders with two new models, introducing its first professional camcorder that implements the AVCHD format, the HXR-NX5U, as well as a consumer AVCHD model, HDR-AX2000.  The new HXR-NX5U will be available this month, at a suggested list price of $4,950, which is the same as Sony’s highly successful HVR-Z5U.  The HDR-AX2000 camcorder is scheduled to be available in March for about $3,500 at authorized dealers nationwide, Sony Style® retail stores and online through www.sonystyle.com.

The cheapest model Liquid Image offer is the $79 Freestyle Series Swim Camera Goggles, which pack a 1.3-megapixel camera capable of 1280 x 960 stills or 30fps VGA video with sound.  There’s also an LED flashlight and 4GB of onboard storage (good for 4,000 images or 90 minutes of footage) and the rechargeable battery is apparently good for up to 90 minutes use (though you use 25 minutes of that if you keep the light switched on) at up to 15ft deep.

Next comes the Summit Series Snow Camera Goggles, at $149, which can be used in various snow-bound activities.  They get a 5-megapixel camera or 720 x 480 30fps video mode, with both 16GB of onboard storage and a microSD slot happy with up to 16GB cards.  The battery is good for up to 2200 stills or 2hrs 20 minutes video.

Back underwater, and $200 gets you the Liquid Image Wide Angle VideoMask 312, doubling the original VideoMask’s lens capture to 135-degrees.  It captures the same quality footage as the Snow Camera Goggles, and uses the same memory system.

Finally there’s the Liquid Image Wide Angle Scuba Series HD322, which clocks in at $350.  That has – as the name suggests – a wide angle lens, in this case 135-degrees, and can capture 5-megapixel stills or 720p HD video.  It uses microSD cards (2GB supplied; 32GB supported) and AAA batteries, and can be used up to 40m/130ft deep.

Hands-on, and all of the models are easy to use with oversized controls that make generous – and glove-friendly – use of levers and chunky buttons.  Inside the goggles there are indicator LEDs which do a decent job of communicating status, though with no preview display it’ll take some getting used to correctly framing shots initially.  For that reason alone we’d be tempted by the latter models, with their broader angle lenses.

The Wide Angle Scuba Series goggles and the Wide Angle VideoMask goggles are set to ship in May 2010; the Summit Series Snow Camera Goggles won’t arrive until Summer 2010.  Meanwhile the entry-level Freestyle Series Swim Camera Goggles should drop in April 2010.

Both bundles offer the same performance, namely 3k REDCODE RAW 120fps video recording (or scaled 720p/1080p 60fps recording), two 24-bit 48KHz independent microphone channels, and more still megapixels than you know what to do with.  There’s also a 3-axis motion sensor and GPS, remote control via WiFi and more.  RED have also revealed some new Mini Prime lenses, specially designed for use with the Scarlet 2/3, ranging from 6mm to 50mm and priced at $950.

The Scarlet 2/3 bundles are expected to go on sale in May or June 2010, though that could change depending on firmware schedules and the like.  RED have also been showing off their new Electronic ViewFinder (EVF) – which packs an internal heater for low-temperature shoots – the new RED STATION stackable storage module, and the REDMOTE PRO, an update to their existing control plate.  They’re also pushing out a new version of REDCINE-X, their software tool.

[via Akihabara]

Each also grabs still shots – the MyVideo at VGA resolution, the MyVideo HD at a presumably interpolated 5-mexapixels – and has onboard software to make uploading to Flickr, YouTube and other sites straightforward.  Memorex quote up to 5hrs of battery life for the low-res model and half that for the HD version.

The HD camcorder also has an HDMI port and comes with an HDMI cable in the box.  The Memorex MyVideo and MyVideo HD camcorders are available to buy now, priced at $99.99 and $129.99 respectively.

Press Release:

Memorex MyVideo™ Camcorders Capture and Share Life’s Meaningful Moments

Pocket-sized camcorders offer easy uploading and web sharing

OAKDALE, Minn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Zoom in on life’s moments before they zoom out. Memorex, a portfolio brand of Imation Corp. (NYSE: IMN), announces the release of the Memorex MyVideo™ and MyVideo HD camcorders—stylish pocket camcorders designed to capture life’s impromptu moments.

“MyVideo camcorders offer families an easy way to record, view and share, not only special occasions, but also the little moments that happen in everyday life,” says Jessica Walton, Memorex global brand manager. “Whether you want to record your child’s holiday recital or capture an impromptu dance party at home, MyVideo camcorders are simple to use and fit perfectly into a pocket or purse.”

With integrated USB ports, MyVideo camcorders feature one-touch recording, editing software, and easy uploading and sharing to websites like Facebook and YouTube. The camcorders also offer instant playback to TV—no PC uploading required—and the ability to capture photos and video. For the best viewing experience, the MyVideo HD model also includes a full-size HDMI port and cable.

Pricing and Availability

Available in black or pearlized white (colors vary by model), select models of the Memorex MyVideo camcorders are now available in select Toys “R” Us and OfficeMax stores for the suggested retail price of $99.99 to $129.99.

About Memorex

Memorex is one of the most trusted and recognized consumer brands in modern marketing history. A portfolio brand of Imation Corp. (NYSE: IMN), Memorex is the North American market- share leader in optical media and media accessories in retail and one of the best-known names in the consumer electronics industry. Memorex reaches into millions of homes with home audio and video products, MP3 players, iPod® accessories, and LCD televisions that are stylish and simple in form and function. For more information about Memorex, please visit www.memorex.com.

The most obvious of alterations is the color schemes Creative has put on the new Vado HDs. We’ve got a white and lime green model, and a black and red model. On the inside, two things have improved. One, a set standard of 4GB of memory at a lower cost. And the other, an application that will now allow support for Apple computers. The app is called Vado Central, and will give the current, as well as previous model, Vado HD the ability to move movies to and from iMovie.

Otherwise, nothing much else has changed. The Vado HD still shoots at 720p, has a fixed optical zoom at 2x, and has a proprietary USB connector to plug into the computer. Movies are recorded at the H.264 codec and give the 4GB model about an hour of shooting time. Pre-orders are lined up to start any time today, at either Amazon.com and Creative’s site. Price wise, the white model will be going for $180, while the black model will be $20 more, at $200. Vado Central should be ready to download within the next few days as well.

[via Electronista]

And if 1080p at 30 frames per second isn’t your cup of tea, then the sensor can also be scaled back to promote 720p resolution at 60 frames per second, and even more at standard definition with 120 frames per second. OmniVision designed the sensor with usability in mind, and in doing so made it small enough to not only fit within camcorders, but to also fit inside webcams and mobile phones.

Truth be told, we can’t wait to see this implemented. While it’s great to watch videos from the cell phone on a peripheral device in the high definition format, getting to record in 1080p with our cell phone would be pretty fantastic. And while we’d like to see this in our phones now, we can be happy to know that production in volume begins in September. And yes, OmniVision is an iPhone 3GS supplier, but we’ll have to wait and see if Apple (or any other manufacturer for that matter) takes advantage of the OV2710 any time soon. Cross your fingers.

[via Electronista]

That means you can use it to record footage then instantly upload it, or pick clips you’ve already filmed from the iPhone 3GS’ camera roll and upload them, but you can’t stream in real-time.  It’s also limited to WiFi connectivity at the moment, though Qik say they’ve a second, 3G-capable version currently trying to fumble its way through Apple’s approval process.

Other neat features include both landscape and portrait orientation support, plus geotagging of videos, and of course it’s free both to download and to register a Qik account.  We can’t help but miss the real-time functionality, but if you’ve been looking for an easy way to share geotagged footage and you’re often within spitting distance of a WiFi connection, then this might be your app.

This new camcorder also has a 10X Konica-Minolta lens, 600fps slow-mo shooting, YouTube, iMovie, iTunes and Final Cut exporting and 32GB of built-in flash memory, along with a SDHC card slot for expanding the capacity two-fold.

This latest JVC camera model will be available in Japan first on August 8th for about $1,156. We don’t have any U.S. release date details or pricing just yet, but it is pretty safe to assume the camera will make it stateside eventually.

The onboard software – loaded by plugging in the Zi8′s flick-out USB connector - includes YouTube and Facebook uploads, together with basic editing functionality.  Footage is recorded to SD/SDHC card, with up to 32GB cards supported for up to 10 hours of video.  The preview display is 2.5-inches, and there’s an external microphone jack and HDMI connection.

As well as video, the Kodak Zi8 captures 5-megapixel 16:9 stills, and the company are claiming improved low-light performance too.  It will land – in aqua, raspberry and black – from September 2009, priced at $179.95.

Press Release:

KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera brings sleek style and high-performance to pocket video

Easily shoot and share high-quality 1080p HD video

Rochester, NY, July 29, 2009 – Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today announced an exciting new addition to its popular line of Digital Video Cameras – the KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera, featuring a sleek design, high-quality full 1080p High Definition video capture, and built-in electronic image stabilisation.

“Images and video have tremendous power to help us stay connected to family and friends,” says Phil Scott, Worldwide Director of Marketing, Digital Capture and Devices and Vice President, Consumer Digital Group. “The KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera makes it easy to spontaneously capture HD video – of heartwarming moments, of ‘can you believe that?’ moments, and of just plain laugh-out-loud moments – and then quickly and easily share them.”

The slim and stylish KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera is designed to meet these needs at the touch of a button — no lens cap, dials to turn or settings to adjust. The new camera’s range of advanced features includes:
• Full HD 1080p video capture wherever you go;
• Built-in electronic image stabilisation for sharper videos and reduced blurring;
• Vivid 2.5″ colour LCD;
• Flexible swing-out USB arm for fast uploading, sharing, and charging;
• 5 MP 16:9 widescreen HD still pictures;
• Easy upload to Facebook and YouTube;
• Compatible with PC and Mac operating systems;
• Record up to 10 hours of HD video* with the expandable SD/SDHC card slot that can hold up to 32 GB;
• Capture family and friends in their best light with smart face tracking technology;
• See more details and accurate colours in low light;
• External microphone jack;
• In-box HDMI cable;
• Record from a distance or playback on your TV conveniently with optional KODAK Pocket Video remote control;
• Grab attention and define your style with the ultra compact design, stunning looks, and a range of colours.

Uploading to Facebook and YouTube
The KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera provides one-button upload to Facebook, the premiere social networking and sharing website. Content can also be quickly and easily uploaded to YouTube, the world’s most popular online video community. The built-in software on the camera allows seamless upload of your video and pictures from the same desktop interface used for video editing and movie creation.

Accessories
A range of accessories are available for the KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera, including:
• KODAK SDHC Memory Cards, available in 4, 8, and 16GB capacities customised for optimal video capture;
• KODAK Pocket Video Remote control;
• KODAK KLIC-7004 Lithium Ion batteries;
• KODAK Flexi-tripod;
• KODAK Adventure Mount for helmet, handlebars and more;
• KODAK cases, camera bags and neck straps.

Pricing and Availability
The KODAK Zi8 Pocket Video Camera will be available in aqua, raspberry and black** from September, 2009, and retail for US$179.95 MSRP.

*Record approximately 20 minutes per 1GB at HD 30fps.
** colour availability may vary.

[via Gizmodo Australia]

Intended for videographers and musicians, this Video Recorder comes with HandyShare software, making it easy to edit videos and upload them to you YouTube on the fly. Even better yet, the camcorder is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for on-the-go use.

It comes with two condenser microphones and the ability to record audio at 24-bit/48kHz HD quality. The mics can be focused as well, which is very similar to audio zoom. Other features include a 2.4-inch LCD display, a 32GB SDHC card and a USB cable. It’s powered by 2 AA batteries and can record 640 x 480 rez video for up to two hours. The Q3 Handy Video Recorder is now available for $249.

The iVIS HD S11 has a 1/2.6-inch CMOS capable of up to 8-megapixel stills, while the iVIS HF21 gets a 1/4-inch CMOS and up to 4-megapixel stills.  Each has optical stabilization, an optical zoom (10x in the HF S11; 15x in the HF21) and face-detection, together with a 2.7-inch wide-aspect LCD preview screen.

Connectivity includes USB, a proprietary AV port, headphones and microphone-input, and there’s an optional underwater kit for the HF21.  Both will go on sale in Japan come August, though there’s no word on pricing as yet.

Still, you get a 65x “Intelli-Zoom” (52x optical zoom) and optical image stabilization, together with an HDMI output for direct connection to a TV or display.  There’s also Schneider Optics and the same Intelli-Studio onboard editing suite as the U10, that boots up whenever you connect to a PC via USB.  From there you can make basic tweaks and upload to YouTube. 

The K40 has an SDHC card slot while the K45 has a 32GB SSD, good for up to 20hrs and 40 minutes of recording.  Both can shoot 800 x 600 stills and do time-lapse recording, and will hit the market in August 2009.  The Samsung SMX-K40 will be priced at $329.99 while the SMX-K45 will be $499.99. 

Press Release:

SAMSUNG ANNOUNCES NEW CAMCORDERS THAT PUT HD VIDEO RECORDING AND VIEWING IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND

Ultra Compact HMX-U10 Camcorder takes full-HD Video and 10 MP Stills;

K-Series featuring the SMX-K40 and SMX-K45 offer near full-HD Upscaling and HDMI Connectivity

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J. – July 14, 2009 – Samsung Electronics America Inc. today introduced new camcorders that make recording and viewing video in HD easy. The HMX-U10 is an ultra compact camcorder that records in full-HD and takes 10 mega-pixel still photos. It also allows users to easily share content online with its one-touch “upload” button to YouTubeTM. The SMX-K40 and SMX-K45 record video in standard definition but then upscale the footage to near full-HD when viewing through an HDMI output (cable sold separately). These new models join Samsung’s second-half camcorder lineup for 2009, which includes the recently introduced SMX-C14 and SMX-C10.

“We want to make it easy for everyone, from the young family of four to the tech-savvy professional, to record and view HD footage,” said Reid Sullivan, senior vice president of Audio/Video and Digital Imaging Marketing at Samsung Electronics America. “The addition of the HMX-U10 and the K-Series adds strength to an already impressive lineup of Samsung camcorders and offers a digital video recording solution for every consumer segment.”

HMX-U10

The HMX-U10 is the ideal solution for the consumer looking for ultimate portability and ease-of-use in an HD camcorder. The HMX-U10 offers full-HD video recording with 1920×1080 resolution. The HMX-U10’s 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensor also gives consumers the ability to capture impressive 10 mega-pixel digital still images, all which can be reviewed on the camcorder’s clear, two-inch LCD screen. At 56mm x 103mm x 15.5mm, and weighing just 95g including the battery, the HMX-U10 is ultra-compact with an ergonomic design that breaks free of the traditional look and feel of pocket-sized camcorders. Its sleek frame is accentuated by a wave-design that angles the body of the camcorder at seven degrees, allowing users to grip the camcorder more comfortably, reducing any related stress on the wrist or arm. This same ergonomic design philosophy is also found in the SMX-C14 and SMX-C10 camcorders, which feature Samsung’s unique Active Angle Lens.

K-Series: SMX-K40 and SMX-K45

With the new K-Series, consumers can enjoy near full-HD quality video for the price of a standard definition camcorder. The SMX-K40 and SMX-K45 record exceptional standard definition video at a resolution of 720×480, and then can be played back on an HDTV in near full-HD quality thanks to advanced upscaling technology and HDMI connectivity. With a built-in HDMI output on the camera and HDMI cable (sold separately), consumers connect the camcorder directly to their HDTV for near full-HD playback.

The SMX-K40 and SMX-K45 also offer one of Samsung’s most powerful zoom lenses. Consumers have a 65x Intelli-Zoom at their fingertips which drastically enhances their ability to capture any moment they see no matter how far away they may be. Significantly more reliable than a standard digital zoom which negatively affects the quality of the image, Samsung’s new Intelli-Zoom allows users to go beyond the camcorder’s 52x optical zoom. The K-Series also features Samsung’s advanced Optical Image Stabilizer, ensuring that video will be shake-free, whether zoomed out or using the camcorder at it’s full 65x Intelli-Zoom. Furthermore, the camcorder’s world-class Schneider-KREUZNACH lens delivers the quality and performance needed to help capture the most impressive video possible.

The SMX-K45 offers an internal 32GB Solid State Drive (SSD), providing up to 20 hours and 40 minutes of recording time depending on the recording mode. Samsung’s renowned SSD technology offers a substantial advantage over the use of Hard Disk Drives (HDD) in a digital camcorder. SSD is more energy efficient, produces very low heat emission, and is faster and more durable than HDD because there are no moving parts. The SMX-K40 does not have internal storage and requires the use the of a SD/SDHC card.

Unique Features

The new HMX-U10 and K-Series follow in the footsteps of the newly introduced SMX-C14 and SMX-C10 and boast several unique features which differentiate them from the competition and make video recording even more enjoyable for consumers. Such features include Samsung’s built-in intelli-studio software, animated thumbnails, and a versatile charging system.

No longer do consumers need to worry about being near their home computer in order to edit or share their video. The HMX-U10 and the K-Series all feature Samsung’s play-edit-sharing program called intelli-studio. The camcorders’ built-in intelli-studio program allows consumers to turn any computer into a mobile studio, giving them the ability to edit and play their video without having to install supporting software. Sharing is also simplified using intelli-studio as the program takes the hassle out of uploading content to popular video-sharing Web sites. For example, a one-touch “upload” button, available directly on the HMX-U10, provides a direct connection to YouTube™, further reducing the number of steps needed to upload footage. In addition, the camcorders also allow basic on-camera editing, including the ability to split video files.

Samsung’s animated thumbnail feature simplifies the way users search for video clips. Each video clip saved on the camcorder is represented by a small thumbnail on the LCD screen. When scrolling through one’s videos, each thumbnail will provide a short playback of the video file when highlighted by the user. The HMX-U10, and SMX-K40 and SMX-K45 also feature a versatile charging system. Users can either recharge the battery by connecting the camcorder to the supplied AC adapter or via USB while the camcorder is connected to a computer.

Intended to take on the Flip UltraHD, which we reviewed back in May, the HMX-U10 records to SDHC card and uses the H.264 video codec.  Around the back there’s a 2-inch LCD for framing and reviewing, together with basic controls; the 1/2.3-inch CMOS lens is fixed focus and seemingly lacks any sort of zoom.

Plugging the camcorder into a PC kick starts Samsung’s Intelli-Share app, which allows for basic editing and one-touch YouTube uploads.  The Samsung HMX-U10 will go on sale this September in the US, priced at $200. 

Press Release:

SAMSUNG’S NEW EASY SHARE CAMCORDER MAKES FULL-HD VIDEO RECORDING AND 10 MEGA-PIXEL STILLS FIT IN ANY POCKET

Ultra-Compact HMX-U10 Pocket Camcorder takes full-HD video and 10 mega-pixel stills for fast and easy sharing.

14 July 2009 – Samsung, leaders in innovation and digital imaging, today extended its family of Full HD digital camcorders to make recording and viewing video in HD easier than ever.

The HMX-U10 is an ultra compact camcorder that records in full-HD and also allows users to take 10 mega-pixel still photos. A one-touch “upload” button provides a direct connection to YouTube™ for fast and easy video sharing.

Full-HD video recording
The HMX-U10 is the ideal solution if you’re looking for ultimate portability and ease‑of‑use in a full HD camcorder. The HMX-U10 offers full-HD video recording with 1920×1080 resolution. The HMX-U10’s 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensor gives the ability to capture impressive 10 mega-pixel digital still images, all of which can be reviewed on the camcorder’s clear, two-inch LCD screen.

Ultra-compact design
At 56mm x 103mm x 15.5mm, and weighing just 95g including the battery, the HMX-U10 is ultra-compact with an ergonomic design that breaks free of the traditional look and feel of pocket-sized camcorders. Its sleek frame is accentuated by a wave-design that angles the body of the camcorder at seven degrees, allowing users to grip the camcorder more comfortably, reducing stress on the wrist or arm. This same ergonomic design philosophy is also found in the HMX-R10 and SMX-C10 camcorders, which both feature Samsung’s unique Active Angle Lens.

Unique features
The new HMX-U10 follows in the footsteps of the newly introduced SMX-C10 and boasts several unique features to make video recording even more enjoyable, including Samsung’s built-in intelli-studio software, animated thumbnails, and a versatile charging system.

The HMX-U10 features Samsung’s play-edit-sharing program called intelli‑studio so you can edit or share your video without access to a PC. When you do connect, the camcorder’s built-in intelli-studio program allows you to turn any computer into a mobile studio, giving you the ability to edit and play your video without having to install supporting software.

Sharing is also simplified as the intelli-studio program takes the hassle out of uploading content to popular video‑sharing websites. A one-touch “upload” button, available on the HMX-U10, provides a direct connection to YouTube™, so footage can be online within seconds of shooting. In addition, the camcorders also allow basic on-camera editing, including the ability to split video files.

The animated thumbnail feature simplifies searching for video clips. Every video clip is represented by a small thumbnail on the LCD screen which provides a short playback when highlighted by the user.

“The addition of the HMX-U10 adds strength to an already impressive line-up of Samsung camcorders and offers a digital video recording solution for everyone” said Steve Mitchell, General Manager Marketing, Samsung Digital Imaging Division.

The HMX-U10 Camcorder will be available from leading high street and online retailers from September 2009.

Customers requiring further information should call 0845 726 7864 or visit samsungcamcorder.co.uk/

Specifications are subject to change.
* HDMI cable sold separately

This diving mask has a 5-megapixel camera that allows you to take still images and videos while underwater. You can get a resolution of up to 720 x 480 at 33-feet below! That’s pretty impressive, if you ask me.

Other features include power and shutter buttons, a microSD memory card slot and 16MB of internal memory. The device is powered by two AAA batteries. It also has a USB 2.0 port. You can get the Liquid Image UDCM310 underwater diving mask now for about $180 in Japan.

There’s also optical stabilization, which Panasonic claim is good enough to cut out shakes even at maximum zoom, and the HS350 can record at rates of up to 17Mbps in its highest quality mode.  Alternatively, it can record over 40hrs or over 60hrs of 1920 x 1080 footage in 13Mbps or 9Mbps modes respectively. 

Focusing uses the touchscreen preview display, tapping to select an object or person to be tracked, and there’s face and scene recognition, automatic low-light accommodation and 5.1 surround-sound recording.  According to Panasonic, the HS350 will boot up in 1.9 seconds from powered-off, or 0.6 seconds from standby. 

The Panasonic HDC-HS350 will arrive in Japan on July 25th; no word on pricing, nor when we might see it reach the US or Europe.

[via Gadgets Reviews]