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Review: Samsung HMX-QF20 HD Camcorder

Michael Kwan — Mon, 28 May 2012 13:52:50 +0000

When camera phones came around, people still wanted to have their regular digital cameras to take better pictures. When those digital cameras gained the ability to take video, people still wanted to have standalone camcorders to take better video. While there are certainly cameras and cameraphones that shoot some pretty great video these days, there is still something to be said about having a true dedicated camcorder for your movie-making purposes.

Offering full 1920×1080 HD video in the palm of your hand is the Samsung HMX-QF20. The Samsung QF20 is a very compact camcorder, but it comes loaded with a number of impressive features, like integrated Wi-Fi and an assortment of art filters.

Features and Specs

Even though the QF20 is marketed as offering full HD video, that’s only partly true. It shoots 1080i at 60fps or 720p at 30fps, with no option to shoot at a true 1080p at all. This isn’t a huge deal breaker for the average consumer, but the discerning techie would have likely wanted to get that full 1080p HD treatment.

The high-quality Schneider Kreuznach lens has a 35mm equivalent focal length of 38.4mm to 768mm for a suitably equipped 20x optical zoom. There’s also the digital zoom factor in there if you want to bump that figure to 40x. The aperture range is F/1.8 to F/3.9, giving you plenty of light even at full telephoto. For stills, you are limited to just a 5.1-megapixel imaging sensor.

Unlike the Samsung HMX-H106 HD camcorder, which has a built-in solid state drive, the HMX-QF20 relies on its SD card slot for storage. Thankfully, it’s also considerably cheaper as a result. Rounding out the specs are optical image stabilization and a 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD.

The QF20 is more compact that I expected at about 12cm in length and a 5cm diameter, making it somewhat pocketable (depending on your pockets, of course).

User Interface

There is no power button or switch on this camcorder at all. Instead, it automatically turns on when you flip out the touchscreen panel and it turns off when you close it back up. That touchscreen can also rotate around as needed for a better viewing angle. If you close it up with the screen toward the outside, the QF20 will automatically enter playback mode.

As far as the touchscreen UI goes, it’s all pretty basic and standard. There is a physical “home” button next to it that brings up the main menu with the ability to switch between modes (like Smart Auto or Art Time Lapse), as well as access to the Social Sharing, Auto Backup, TV Link (AllShare), and Settings menus.

While shooting, there are a few icons available to you on the screen too, like switching between video and stills. You can optionally bring up virtual buttons for zoom, but the five way controls at the back of the camcorder are generally more comfortable to use. As with so many other similar products, the touchscreen on the QF20 isn’t the best; we’ve become far too accustomed to the responsiveness of capacitive smartphone displays, so going to this plastic-y resistive display is disappointing.

There is a built-in lens cover and this is opened and closed via a switch on the right side, just in front of the hand strap. The stereo microphones, which seem to be very sensitive, are located on top towards the front of the barrel.

Switch Grip and WiFi Functionality

Lefties of the world rejoice! The trouble with most camcorders that take on this form factor is that they are very rightie-centric. While that’s still mostly true here, you can simply “flip” the camcorder over and the UI on the touchscreen will also flip accordingly. This way, you can hold the camcorder in your left hand and everything will work just the same (without an upside down video).

Another selling feature is the inclusion of integrated Wi-Fi. You can use this to upload videos directly to Facebook and YouTube, for example. This sounds like it could be an interesting feature in concept, but entering your access point and social media account credentials via the touchscreen can be the expected exercise in frustration.

For my part, even though the Wi-Fi could be interesting, I can’t see myself ever using it. Even if I didn’t want to do some basic editing on my computer, I’d want to be able to write up a proper description and tag my videos before uploading. But that’s just me.

Still Photo Performance

So, how do those 5MP photos turn out?

Here is an example of an indoor shot taken on an overcast day with a fair bit of interior incandescent lighting. I left all the settings at full auto. You can see that there is noticeable noise, particularly visible on the black portions, and the details aren’t nearly as “crisp” as they could have been. It does the job, but it could be better. The lack of flash makes taking stills with the QF20 under darker conditions virtually impossible too.

There are a number of digital effects that you can apply to both videos and stills. Here is the “art” effect, for instance. There is also black and white, sepia, negative, ghost, noir, western, and dazzle.

Overall, the quality is probably best described as just decent. It may be a step above some cameraphones, but you’ll likely get better results from a suitable point-and-shoot digital camera.

Video Performance

Comparatively, the video performance on the QF20 is quite a bit better. The details come through quite well, but I did find that the “Smart Auto” mode goes too far in overcompensating for backlighting. This is understandable and it’s a common problem, but it goes even further in this regard than many other cameras.

Video quality is definitely better than what you’d get some of the pocket camcorders out there, like the Flip MinoHD, and having access to a true 20x optical zoom lens is a huge plus. The file sizes are typically smaller than what you would get from shooting 1080i or 720p with a conventional P&S too.

Here is a sample compilation video that I put together. It was shot at 1920×1080 at 60i, de-interlaced in Pinnacle Studio 14 Ultimate with the “blend” function, and then rendered out in 720p HD. Aside from that and the titling, the video was not otherwise edited or altered.

To see how slightly edited 720p video looks, you can watch this video that I shot at a Japanese restaurant. It also clearly demonstrates the issue with overcompensating for the backlighting, resulting in a complete loss of visibility for the faces of some people at the table.

Conclusion

The Samsung HMX-QF20, despite its shortcomings, is quite the nice little camcorder. I like the compact size, as well as the “switch grip” feature. You can even shoot vertical HD videos, if you ever decide that’s something you want to do. Having 20x optical zoom (and 40x digital zoom) is incredibly useful too.

The lack of onboard storage is certainly forgiveable and while I still find the touchscreen to be not as responsive as I would have liked, it’s still perfectly usable without too much trouble. While the quality of the stills aren’t up to snuff, they’re still decent and the video quality is really why you’d want this camcorder anyway.

With retail going anywhere between $300-$400 (toward the higher end of that in Canada), the QF20 is a moderately priced camcorder that–for the most part–gets the job done. You might want to use the available manual mode to avoid over-exposure, though.

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Shoot Extreme Video With iON Action Pro Camcorder

Michael Kwan — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:42:20 +0000

This whole action camcorder market is really starting to heat up. Everyone already knows about the GoPro Hero and I recently wrote about the Swann Freestyle HD, but it looks like we have yet another contender for the extreme video crown. Even though it might look like a glorified flashlight, what you see here is the iON Action Pro camcorder and it’s purpose-built with totally radical video in mind.

As with other adventure-minded camcorders, the iON Action Pro has been ruggedized to survive the rough and tumble as you tear down the mountain on your snowboard or bike. It’s also waterproof up to 50 feet (IPX8), so you can take it along with you when you go surfing. That’s quite unlike the GoPro and the Swann, as those require an external casing to be fully waterproof. The barrel-like design of the iON is a little different in that regard too.

The core specs are in line with the competition though. You get a fixed focus lens with a 170-degree wide angle view in 720p, which gets narrowed down to 127-degrees when you shoot in 1080p. There’s a mono mic, HDMI and composite out, 1100mAh Li-ion battery, f/2.8 aperture, 5MP photo resolution, microSD slot, and USB 2.0 connectivity.

Look for it on February 28th for about $300.

[ source ]

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Super sleek Casio TRYX camera unveiled at CES, does slow-mo @ 240fps

Andrew Anderson — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 21:36:44 +0000

Casio’s new TRYX camera has been launched at CES and oh boy is she ever pretty. With so many point and shoots on the market they all tend to converge into one dog pile, but TRYX is the kind of camera you’d bring home to mom but wouldn’t let her touch.

It comes loaded with a gorgeous 3” 480×320 LCD screen that swivels around so that you can not only get yourself framed correctly in the uber-important self-shot, but you can also effectively swing the camera body out to act as a tripod to get the equally uber-important timer dash shot.

We love that the camera is packing 12.1 megapixels and it also takes 1920 x 1080 full-HD video at 30FPS or even 432×32 slow-mo video at 240FPS! And did we mention it’s pretty?

There’s the usual included: a microphone and speaker for your video, rechargeable lithium ion battery and the SD Memory Card (1GB card included) but no word on built-in memory yet, not that it really matters.

The one complaint (and we hate to complain about pretty things) is there is no optical zoom but with up to 15.9x digital zoom we hope that’s enough to off-set the optically-disappointed. Let’s face it, this is your trophy camera, the one you take for a night on the town or let slip out when you’re trying to impress someone. If you need optical zoom go buy a clunky SLR and visit the butterfly conservatory and we’ll meet you tomorrow for brunch because me and my TRYX have VIP at Pure tonight.

TRYX retails for $249.99 and should be available in April 2011. If you’re at CES you’ve already seen the 100-foot posters of this lovely camera, but check out their booth to see it in person and let us know if she looks as good as she does in these pictures.

Casio Leverages Ces 2011 To Usher In New Era In Digital Imaging
The Casio TRYX^® Boasts Boasts Radically New Form Factor and Raises Bar for Style and Innovation

LAS VEGAS, NV, January 5, 2011 ― Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., today unveiled TRYX^®, a revolutionary new camera that will allow consumers to stand out and be noticed. Strikingly different than any other camera on the market today, TRYX impresses with a distinctive, variable frame design which knows no bounds. With TRYX, consumers can do more and be prepared to capture their photographic lives in ways they were never able to before.

“TRYX truly is a remarkable camera and its announcement is a defining moment for Casio,” said Toshi Iguchi, Senior General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Casio America Inc. “Unlike anything the industry has ever seen, TRYX brings unparalleled innovation and versatility straight to consumers’ hands with a radical new design. This is a camera which was designed specifically to meet the needs of the creative and connected consumer, looking for a unique digital imaging experience and a camera to compliment their lifestyle and personality.”

Tricked-Out Design

Thanks to its super thin (.59-inches thick), variable frame design, TRYX can adapt to fit the user’s preferred shooting style or to help them capture an image from just about any angle or in any environment. Users can hold the camera horizontally, in a traditional point-and-shoot style to capture still images or flip out the rotating, three-inch, touch-screen LCD and swivel the body to experience countless other positions. The frame rotates 360-degrees and can be adjusted so that the body can act as a tripod, allowing TRYX to stand on its own, or the LCD screen can be rotated up to 270-degrees so that users can perfect their own self portrait and see themselves in the frame. Users can even flip out and rotate the body so that the camera can hang from a hook, doorknob or other surface. The Casio TRYX’s body can also be adjusted so that users can record full-HD, 1080p video (30fps) with the traditional feel of a dedicated camcorder, either in a left‑ or right-handed grip or use it vertically, like a pocket camcorder.

High-Speed and High-Performance

In addition to its good looks, the Casio TRYX also boasts an equally impressive feature set. At the heart of the camera is a 12.1 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor which will help capture stunning images thanks to its enhanced sensitivity and low-light performance. The TRYX’s CMOS sensor is also coupled with dual core processors as well as Casio’s state‑of‑the‑art EXILIM^® ENGINE HS, which add significant processing speed and enhance the overall imaging experience. Together, they power many of the camera’s unique creative functions, including High Dynamic Range (HDR) imaging, High-Speed SR Zoom, and slow‑motion video.

Expressing One’s Creativity

TRYX is fully-loaded and packed to the brim with a full range of functions, such as Slide Panorama and slow-motion video recording, which users can take advantage of to boost their creativity and truly express themselves through images. With Slide Panorama, users can effortlessly capture 360-degree panoramic images, and with slow-motion video, users can record events that are ordinarily too fast for the eye to see, at speeds up to 240 fps (432×320). TRYX also incorporates Casio’s revolutionary HDR-ART technology, which gives users the ability to effortlessly transform any photo from ordinary to extraordinary, all with just the touch of a button. HDR-ART works by combining continuous shots with differing exposures and performing highly-precise image analysis to locally change the contrast and level of color saturation. Users can select from three different processing levels to suit their artistic tastes and produce results that are guaranteed to impress.

Empowering the Fingertip

Housed within TRYX’s rotating, three-inch LCD screen (460K pixels / 3:2 aspect ratio) is the camera’s intuitive touch-screen interface which puts all camera controls right at the user’s fingertip. Through the touch-screen LCD, users can activate TRYX’s touch-shutter, which can focus on an area or subject in the frame and capture the photo, just by touching the screen. TRYX’s advanced self-timer can also be activated using the touch-screen LCD. Featuring a clever little twist, the self-timer can be triggered using the camera’s built-in motion sensor. Users can configure the self-timer using their finger to designate an area in the frame on the LCD where TRYX needs to monitor for motion. When motion is detected in the specified area, the self-timer will be triggered, enabling users to take pictures of themselves or allowing them time to get in the photo with a group of friends after placing the camera in just about any location, whether it be hanging it from a wall or setting it on a tabletop.

Ultra-Wide Angle Lens Makes it Easy

Taking a self-portrait, group shot, or an image of a landscape is typically a hassle with a standard lens and narrow focal length. With a standard lens, consumers are forced to sacrifice what they can actually capture, as they can’t fit exactly what they want in the frame. That’s no longer an issue with TRYX, as the camera offers an impressive, ultra-wide-angle, 21mm lens. With such a wide-angle lens, users can fit more of their desired scene into the frame, ensuring that they’ll be able to capture their own image as well as the background they’re in front of, or even a large group of family and friends.

TRYX’s 21mm ultra-wide-angle lens is also outfitted with Casio’s state-of-the-art High-Speed SR Zoom technology. Significantly more advanced than traditional digital zooms, High-Speed SR Zoom captures multiple still images at high-speed and combines them to produce sharp and clear photos. Image quality can be maintained up to two times the range of the focal length.

Social Media Simplified

Casio also preloaded the TRYX with software that facilitates the uploading of images and video directly to the Internet, including many of today’s most popular social networking platforms such as Facebook, Flickr and YouTube. Users can simply select which photos and videos they would like uploaded from the camera beforehand, and upon connecting it to a computer, the files will automatically be sent to each specified destination.

The Casio TRYX will be available April 2011 for $249.99.

TRYX Specifications

						TRYX
Number of Effective Pixels						12.1 megapixels(/million)
Image Sensor						1/2.3-inch high-speed CMOS(back-illuminated type)
	Total Pixels					12.75 megapixels(/million)
File Format	Still Images					JPEG (Exif Ver2.3), DCF2.0
	Movies					MOV format, H.264/AVC, IMA-ADPCM (monaural)
Built-in Memory						TBA
Recording Media						SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card, SDXC Memory Card compatible
Number of Recorded Pixels		Still Images				12M(4000×3000)、3:2(4000×2656)、 5M(2560×1920)、VGA(640×480)
		Movies				FHD : 1920 x1080(30fps) , HD：1280×720(30fps) HS : 432×320(240fps)
Recording Capacity		Still Images			SD Memory Card 1GB*¹	TBA
		Movies			Recording Time	TBA
					SD Memory Card 1GB*¹	TBA
Lens		Construction				5 lenses in 5 groups, including aspherical lens
		F-number				F2.8
		Focal Length				F=3.8mm
			35mm-Film Equivalent			Approx. 21mm
Zoom Ratio						1.5X Single Frame SR Zoom, 2.0X High-Speed SR Zoom (10M), 4X digital zoom, 15.9X maximum digital zoom (in combination with HD Zoom, VGA size)
Focus		Focus Type				Contrast Detection Auto Focus
		Focus Mode				Auto Focus, Macro, Infinity Mode
		AF Area				Spot(Intelligent for Premium Auto)
		AF Assist Lamp				None
Focus Range (From Lens Surface)		Auto Focus				Approx. 3″~Infinity
		Macro				Approx. 3″~ 20″
		Infinity Mode				Infinity
		Manual Focus				None
Exposure Control		Exposure Metering				Multi pattern by CMOS
		Exposure Control				Program AE
		Exposure Compensation				-2EV to +2EV (in 1/3EV steps)
Shutter						CMOS electronic shutter
		Shutter Speed^*2		Auto		1/8 to 1/40000 second (not fixed)
Aperture						F2.8
White Balance						Auto WB, Daylight, Overcast, Shade, Day White Fluorescent, Daylight Fluorescent, Tungsten, Manual WB
ISO Sensitivity (SOS^*3)	Still Images					Auto/100/200/400/800/1600/3200
	Movies					Auto
Other Functions						HDR, HDR ART, BEST SHOT, Premium Auto, Motion Shutter, Slide Panorama
Self-Timer						10 seconds, 2 seconds, 2～10 seconds
Built-in Flash		Flash Mode				None
		Flash Range				None
Monitor						3.0-inch TFT color LCD ( Super Clear LCD ), 460,800 dots (960 x 480) , Touch screen
Timekeeping Function		Date and Time				Recorded with image data
		On-image Time Stamp Function				Yes
		Auto Calendar				To 2049
		World Time				162 cities in 32 time zones, City name, date, time, summer time
External connection terminal						USB port (Hi-Speed USB compatible), HDMI^TM^4 output(Micro/Type D)^5
Microphone						Monaural
Speaker						Monaural
Power Requirement						Rechargeable lithium ion battery (Built-in)
Battery Life						TBA
Dimensions		W × H × D (CIPA Standards)				4.83” x 2.32” x .59”
Weight (CIPA Standards)						Approx. 5.54oz (Including Memory Card^*1) / Approx. 5.47oz (Excluding Memory Card )
Bundled Accessories						USB-AC Adapter, AC Power Cord, USB Cable, Strap

1 When using Panasonic Pro High Speed 1GB SD Memory Card.

2 May differ according to camera settings.

3 SOS: Standard Output Sensitivity.

4 HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

5 1080/50i output is not supported for PAL output using an HDMI™.

EXILIM and TRYX are trademarks or registered trademarks of CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. YouTube is a registered trademark of YouTube, LLC. Any other company or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

About Casio America, Inc.

Casio America, Inc., Dover, N.J., is the U.S. subsidiary of Casio Computer Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of consumer electronics and business equipment solutions, established in 1957. Casio America, Inc. markets calculators, keyboards, digital cameras, mobile presentation devices, disc title and label printers, watches, cash registers and other consumer electronic products. Casio has strived to realize its corporate creed of “creativity and contribution” through the introduction of innovative and imaginative products. For more information, visit http://www.casiousa.com orhttp://pressroom.exilim.casio.com.

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Sony brings 3D bloggie video camera and HD HandyCam with built-in projector to the masses

Raggy Jin — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 21:01:01 +0000

Sony is going all-out at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, revamping their cameras and camcorders with 3D, HD, HD3D, built-in projectors – basically everything you would expect if R2D2 shagged with your Flip and made benderesque little camcorder babies.

First off, they’re introducing the Bloggie: The first HD 3D pocket camera. It’s got two lenses, two sensors, two stereo speakers; if you want two screens, too, grab the Bloggie Duo. They’ll let you take photos and video in 1080p 3D or regular old 2D, saving to 4 or 8GBs of internal storage.

I’m thinking they should have spoken with Kingston during development, since they just announced a brand new, super-high-speed class of UltimateXX SD cards that these cameras would have benefited from.

In the camcorder line, Sony’s grabbed another “world’s first” title with the HDR-TD10: The world’s first “Double Full HD” 3D consumer camcorder. Integrated dual Sony-G lenses, Exmor R CMOS sensors, and even two BIONZ image processors pump out 3D video in 1920×1080 full-HD resolution. It’s got 64GB of internal storage, and like the Bloggie, you can play back video in 3D without glasses on the built-in LCD.

If you’re not into the whole 3D thing, you can skip the second lens and grab a Handycam with a built-in projector instead. The HDR-PJ50V still films in HD, but lets you show off your movies on the wall up to a 60″ screen-size equivalent from 18 feet away.

But that’s not even the half of it. Their 2000-word press release also announces a single-lens camera capable of taking 3D photos, a pocket camera with 1920×1080 HD video; one is waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, freeze-proof and offers HD movie and 3D photo capture.

Looks like it’s been a busy year in the Sony labs.

[Gizmodo, GizMag via Sony]

SONY INTRODUCES INNOVATIVE 3D CAMCORDERS AND CAMERAS

Sony today unveiled its new Handycam® camcorders, Bloggie® cameras and Cyber-shot® digital still cameras with powerful image sensors, new innovative features and strong core video and still photo capture capabilities that make it even easier to get the best shot—even in 3D.

“With these new camcorders and cameras, Sony continues to transform ideas into reality, imagination into real-world products,” said Samuel Yip, director of the digital imaging business at Sony Canada. New digital imaging products and accessories will be on display at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES International Convention). In the Handycam category, Sony will showcase the world’s first “Double Full HD” 3D consumer camcorder (HDR-TD10) with a glasses-free 3D LCD touch panel display, camcorders with a built-in projector (HDR-PJ50V and HDR-PJ10) and a video enthusiast-level consumer camcorder with hallmark Handycam features (HDR-CX700V).

In the MP4 video category, the company will display Bloggie 3D—the world’s first HD 3D pocket camera (MHS-FS3)—an innovative model with two lenses, two image sensors, and stereo microphone that captures easy-to-share 3D or 2D video and photos. You can view 3D images without glasses on the built-in LCD.

In the Cyber-shot category, the company will feature the world’s first digital still cameras with 1080/60p HD video capability (DSC-TX100V) and 3D Still Image mode with a single lens and imager (DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX9, and DSC-WX7). These new top models also add a 16.2 megapixel “Exmor R” CMOS sensor and one model adds a touch screen with OLED.

Additionally, Sony will highlight the new DVDirect® (VBD-MA1), which offers easy, one-touch transfer of high definition video and images to Blu-ray DiscTM media.

High-Definition Camcorders

Along with significant improvements in the entire Handycam camcorder family, three new additions bring 3D technology, video projector and enthusiast solutions to Sony’s industry-leading high definition lineup.

Adding to Sony’s breadth of 3D products, the HDR-TD10 is the world’s first “Double Full HD” 3D consumer camcorder. The camcorder employs an integrated dual lens system, which includes two of each key component—double Sony G Lenses, double “Exmor R” CMOS image sensors, and double BIONZ® image processors. The dual recording system allows 3D content to be recorded in 1920×1080 resolution Full HD. The content can be played back on 3D-capable HDTVs with 3D glasses or in Full HD 2D on non-3D displays. In addition, the 3D footage can be viewed in 3D without glasses on the camcorder’s 3.5-inch 3D touch screen LCD. Providing 64 GB of flash memory, the HDR-TD10 will be available in April for about $1,500.

Handycam camcorders with built-in video projectors offer the ultimate playback experience, even on the go. A compact, LED-based projector is built into the 3-inch flip-out LCD panel, maintaining the camcorder’s compact size and allowing video and images to be projected at up to 60 inches (diagonally) onto walls, ceilings or other flat surfaces.

Combined with powerful stereo speakers with Clear Phase and S-Master digital amplifier, the integrated projector provides a whole new way to enjoy video playback without needing to plug into an HDTV. The HDR-PJ50V with a 220 GB hard disk drive and HDR-PJ10 with 16 GB of flash memory will be available for about $1,000 and $750, respectively.

Sony also introduced the video enthusiast-level HDR-CX700V consumer camcorder with hallmark Handycam features—”Exmor R” CMOS image sensor, Wide Angle G Lens, Optical SteadyShotTM image stabilization with Active Mode, Event Browse, Highlight Playback—and a wealth of new technologies borrowed from Sony’s professional products. The camera boasts film-like shooting with 24p native recording, along with CinemaTone presets, as well as advanced features such as Expanded Focus, Zebra and Peaking settings and other manual controls. The newly developed 16:9 “Exmor R” CMOS sensor realizes a wider angle of view and higher megapixels for video and photos. With 96 GB of flash memory, the HDR-CX700V will be available in March for about $1,300.

On the other end of the video spectrum, Sony’s affordable and fun Bloggie HD camera line welcomes three models that each brings distinct value to the category.

The world’s first HD 3D pocket camera, the MHS-FS3 “Bloggie 3D” model boasts two lenses, two image sensors and two stereo speakers to capture incredible 3D or 2D video and photos.*

Recorded content from the MHS-FS3 can be played back in 3D without glasses on the camera’s 2.4-inch LCD screen or on any 3D capable HDTV with glasses.

The portable HD camera lineup also offers a dual-screen option dubbed the Bloggie Duo camera (MHS-FS2). The slim camera features two vibrant LCD screens—2.7-inch on the back and 2-inch on the front—for new ways to capture yourself and others in full HD video or 5.1-megapixel photos. The Bloggie Duo camera has a built-in LED light and comes in different fashionable colours including violet, green, and pink.

An entry model completes the trio of Bloggie introductions, offering on-the-go video lovers a smart, pocket device at a low price point. The MHS-FS1 sports an ultra compact, lightweight design with a large 2.7-inch LCD screen and comes in black and white.

The MHS-FS1 with 4 GB, MHS-FS2 with 4 GB, and MHS-FS3 with 8 GB of internal memory will be available in April for about $180, $200 and $280, respectively.

Cyber-shot Digital Still Cameras

Sony has designed five new innovative 16.2-megapixel Cyber-shot cameras

(DSC-TX100V, DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX9 and DSC-WX7) that are the world’s first compact digital still cameras to include 3D Still Image mode for taking 3D images using only one lens and imager. They also have innovative Dual Rec (record) technology for taking still photos during video capture.

The DSC-TX100V camera is the world’s first compact digital still camera to include full HD (1920 x 1080/60p) video capability for smooth playback while recording action shots such as sports.

It is also the first Cyber-shot with a 3.5-inch touch screen with OLED that provides deeper blacks and more vibrant color contrast while being thinner than most LCDs.

The DSC-TX10 camera is waterproof, shockproof, dustproof and freeze-proof compliant, offers HD movie and 3D photo capture, plus Intelligent Sweep Panorama, an “Exmor R” CMOS sensor that promises crisp clear photos even in low light and a 3-inch touch screen.

With Sony’s “Exmor R” Back illuminated CMOS sensor technology, these models provide excellent low-light performance, up to 10fps burst shooting and the Intelligent Sweep PanoramaTM feature. These cameras with CMOS sensors will range from $250 to $430 and will be available in March.

Some of Sony’s most affordable full-featured point-and-shoot cameras to-date, Sony today also announced new models with CCD sensors in its W, H, and T-series Cyber-shot lines including models DSC-W510, DSC-W530, DSC-W560, DSC-W570, DSC-T110 and DSC-H70.

The all new W-series models feature Sweep Panorama mode plus a bevy of Sony innovations including SteadyShot® image stabilization that reduces blur, iAuto mode that automatically optimizes camera settings plus Face Detection and Smile ShutterTM technology, making it easy and affordable to get the best shot. The DSC-W530 and DSC-W570 will be available in February and the DSC-W510 and DSC-W560 will be available in March, ranging in price from about $130 to about $200.

Sony also introduced a fresh, sleek addition to its world-class all-touch-screen T-series cameras (DSC-T110) that combine the must-have ultra slim design factor with all the cutting-edge features the in-crowd demands.

Starting with the entry-level DSC-T110, the T-models feature a 3-inch LCD touch screen, Sweep Panorama mode and 720p HD movie capture. The DSC-T110 camera will be available in March for about $240.

Sony also introduced a new 10x optical zoom Cyber-shot camera (DSC-H70). With a 16-megapixel CCD sensor, it has the innovative Sweep PanoramaTM feature, 720p HD movie recording, Optical SteadyShotTM and a 25mm wide lens. The DSC-H70 will be available in April for about $250.

Digital Imaging Accessories

Sony today debuted its next-generation multi-function Blu-ray DiscTM/DVD recorder, which can easily transfer high-definition AVCHDTM home videos as well as digital photos to Blu-Ray Disc/DVD media. It can also record standard-definition home videos on tape media to DVD via an analog input—all without using a computer.

The new VBD-MA1 model has a 2.7-inch color LCD screen for previewing video or up to six digital photos at a time, and its overall size is almost 20 percent slimmer than the current model (VRD-MC6).

The VBD-MA1 has a wide compatibility with Sony’s Handycam camcorders, Cyber-shot cameras, α cameras, select non-Sony camcorders and almost all video tape devices such as VHS, miniDV and Hi8. Also, the VBD-MA1 model can connect to a PC via USB2.0 and be used as an external Blu-ray Disc writer.

Blu-ray Disc media and DVD discs can be played back on compatible Blu-ray Disc media, including players and computer drives, as well as PlayStation® 3 (PS3TM) computer entertainment systems. However, Blu-ray Disc media cannot be played on DVD players.

Up to 19 hours and 20 minutes of HD video or up to 6,000 digital pictures can be recorded on a 50GB double layer Blu-ray Disc media. The new VBD-MA1 model maintains Dolby Digital® 5.1 surround sound as well as 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios with compatible camcorders.

The DVDirect® VBD-MA1 recorder will be available for about $350 at Sony Style® stores and other major retailers around the country in April.

AVCHD Movie Software

Sony today introduced a new AVCHD movie application based on the Playstation®3 system called Filmy, which stands for “my film.”

Designed to view your AVCHD files in various ways, Filmy provides quick search and easy playback of all your treasured AVCHD video memories on PS3®. It will be available as a download application to the PS3TM system from the PlayStation Network Store in February 2011.

*Editor’s Note:

Press releases are available for the news media at Sony Canada news and information web site at www.sony.ca/presscentre

Members of the media can download digital images at http://www.flickr.com/groups/sonycameraclub

For videos from the Sony Booth at CES, visit www.youtube.com/user/SonyConvergineer

* MP4 based consumer digital camera is capable of recording vertical resolution of 1080 as of January 5, 2011.

About Sony of Canada Ltd.

Established in 1955, Sony of Canada Ltd. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation, of Tokyo, Japan, a world leader in High Definition. Sony provides end-to-end solutions through products that include the market-leading Blu-ray DiscTM players, BRAVIA® televisions, Cyber-shot® digital cameras, Handycam® Camcorders, VAIO® computers, broadcast cameras, IPELA security cameras and video conferencing and many more products that deliver the true entertainment experience.

Sony is one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world with a portfolio that includes electronics, music, movies, games and online businesses.

With headquarters in Toronto, sales offices in Vancouver and Montreal and distribution centres in Coquitlam, British Columbia, and Whitby, Ontario, approximately 1,000 employees support a network of more than 500 authorized dealers and 62 Sony Style retail locations across Canada.

Sony Canada is devoted to the betterment of children, the environment, and the community. Through the Sony Canada Charitable Foundation (SCCF), Sony Canada aims to maximize its support of charitable and philanthropic organizations, including Make-A-Wish® Canada, the United Way of Canada and Earth Day Canada.

To view this news release in HTML formatting, please use the following URL: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/January2011/05/c8612.html

SOURCE: Sony of Canada Ltd.

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Samsung Full HD pocket camcorders upload videos to web

Mobile News Desk — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 18:17:18 +0000

Samsung Full HD HMX-P300 (Left) and the HMX-P100 (Right)

Combining portability with quick and easy use, Samsung has developed two new point and “share” camcorders, the Samsung Full HD HMX-P300 and the HMX-P100. Pocket-sized and fashionable, the sleek, black cameras are designed for all you social-networkers.

Through the unique One Touch sharing feature and built in Intelli-Studio 2.0 software, the P300 and P100 allow users to use the built in USB arm to upload videos automatically to websites, eliminating long waits for file transfers so that videos can be posted as quickly as possible. Because you know, if your dog ran out of 7-11 with a bag of hickory sticks, everyone should know about it.

The P300 comes with both 3x Optical Zoom, ensuring brilliantly clear footage, and Pivot Mode, making it possible to shoot video from any angle. The P100 makes use of the innovative 5M BSI (Black Side Illuminated) CMOS sensor which dramatically improves the quality of low light recording and cuts noise and light distortions.

A number of features are found in both cameras, making recording as easy as possible: Auto Focus and Smart Auto automatically adjust colour, focus and brightness, while the Record-Pause allows users to take brief pauses before resuming recording within the same file. The P300 and P100 can also function as cameras, boasting 8M Pixel and 5M Pixel still-image capture respectively.

The P300 can be had for $199 in March, with the P100 coming out at $150 next month.

Shooting & Sharing Videos Made Easy with the Pocket-sized Samsung Full HD HMX-P300 and HMX-P100

Capture and share Full HD quality videos wherever you go with the latest Samsung point-and-share camcorder

2011 International CES
LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced the launch of the two latest point-and-share camcorders in its 2011 portfolio. The Full HD HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 have been designed for those who love sharing videos with friends and family, and enjoy capturing film spontaneously and uploading just as quickly. Stylish, pocket-sized and affordable, the HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 have been created to be carried anywhere, and make uploading and sharing special moments both easy and fun.

“The HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 are the perfect point-and-share camcorders for customers who get as much enjoyment in sharing their videos as they do from capturing them”
The HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 follow the Samsung HMX-E10 model, bringing with them the latest developments in Samsung imaging technology, ultimately comprising some of the best value point-and-share camcorders on the market. Key developments including a 5M BSI (Back Side Illuminated) CMOS sensor, which dramatically improves low-light recording and HD movie recording, are available in the P100. The HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 are also the ultimate point-and-share camcorders for those who want to upload their videos quickly and easily. Through the new One Touch Sharing feature, users can select which website they want to upload files to directly from the LCD screen. Both point-and-share camcorders come with advanced Intelli-Studio 2.0 software pre-installed so it’s easy to connect to a PC and start sharing straight away.

The HMX-P300 is also specially adapted to make video capture easy from any angle, by including a 3x Optical Zoom and Pivot Recording Mode, enabling you to capture greater detail at any occasion, such as concerts or sporting events, in horizontal or vertical frames. The 3x Optical Zoom allows you to record in clear and brilliant detail while on-the-go, without sacrificing video quality. The 3” 230K pixel Touch LCD screen can also rotate to give multiple shooting angles that allow the user a full, clear view of their subject without sacrificing the shot through portrait or landscape orientation. To make sure that you don’t miss any of the action, the Samsung HMX-P100 is also built with an LCD screen that has an 80-degree viewing angle, so no matter how you’re holding your point-and-share camcorder, you’ll enjoy a clear view every time. Both point-and-share camcorders can also function as cameras, with 8M Pixel (HMX-P300) and 5M Pixel (HMX-P100) still image capture.

“The HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 are the perfect point-and-share camcorders for customers who get as much enjoyment in sharing their videos as they do from capturing them,” said Mr. Hyunho Chung, Executive Vice President and Head of the Digital Imaging Business, Samsung Electronics. “Sharing our videos with friends and family through social networking sites and blogs is one of the great pleasures in capturing live footage, and we’ve used the latest Samsung technology to make this easier than ever. These point-and-share camcorders are ideal for anyone who has a busy lifestyle, but still enjoys capturing and sharing eye-catching moments on-the-go. They’re small and stylish enough for you to want to take everywhere.”

New experiences in quality and usability

The HMX-P100 and P300 are built to make sharing movies easier than ever through the One Touch Sharing feature. Once the point-and-share camcorder is connected to a PC via the built-in USB arm, videos will upload automatically, saving time with file transfers and making sure you never forget to share special memories with friends and family. In addition, the HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 can also capture great still photographs, eliminating the need to carry around a separate camera.

Both the HMX-P100 and HMX-P300 are built with mobility in mind. Using Micro SD technology, the camcorders are much smaller and more compact than conventional point-and-share camcorders. The slim bodies of the point-and-share camcorders can easily fit into a jacket pocket or handbag, while the built-in USB arms and USB charging features enable users to charge batteries and share images simultaneously without needing an additional cable.

The point-and-share camcorders include features to create the best possible image quality out of every situation. The innovative 5M BSI (Back Side Illuminated) CMOS sensor featured on the HMX-P100 records with twice the sensitivity of regular CMOS sensors to reduce image noise and distortion and dramatically enhance recording quality in low-light situations. The AF lens of the HMX-P100 also makes it easy to capture bright and clear movies anytime and anywhere.

In addition, the HMX-P300 and HMX-P100 include a number of smart features that make recording simple. The Auto Focus and Smart Auto functions on both models automatically adjust focus and shooting modes according to factors such as color, subject and brightness. Both point-and-share camcorders also feature new Record Pause technology, allowing users to take a brief pause in filming before re-starting recording within the same file. This feature makes is much easier to edit and share footage, and ensure that users have the best video capturing experience.

Specifications


	HMX-P300	HMX-P100
Storage Media	Micro SDHC/SD Card	Micro SDHC/SD Card
Image Stabilization	DIS image stabilization	DIS image stabilization
Sensor	1/3.2” 8M CMOS	1/3.2” 5M BSI CMOS
Lens	3x optical zoom Samsung lens F 2.8 f=4.4~13.2	1x zoom Samsung lens F 2.2 f=4.3
Size	58 x 18 x 110 mm	57.5 x 112.5 x 14.5 mm
Additional features	Auto FocusFace detection 8 lux @1/15sec minimum illumination Smart Auto Record Pause USB charging Intelli-Studio 2.0 One-Touch sharing feature Tripod screw	Auto FocusFace detection 5 lux @1/30sec minimum illumination Smart Auto Record Pause USB charging Intelli-Studio 2.0 One-Touch sharing feature Tripod screw
Display	3.0” Touch LCD230K resolution	2.3” LCD230K resolution
Video recording	H.264 resolutionHD resolution: 1920×1080 30p 1280×720 60p 1280×720 30p	H.264 resolutionHD resolution: 1920×1080 30p 1280×720 60p 1280×720 30p
Device Connectivity	USB PC interface via USB armHDMI interface Composite interface	USB PC interface via USB armHDMI interface
Battery type	BP-11A (1050mAh)	BP90A (900mAh)
Colors	Titan black, silver, white and pink	black, sliver, blue, pink
Price	$199	$149
Aa Availability	March	February

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2009 consolidated sales of US$116.8 billion. Employing approximately 174,000 people in 193 offices across 66 countries, the company consists of eight independently operated business units: Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, Digital Imaging, Semiconductor and LCD. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

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The compact Toshiba CAMILEO S30 HD digital camcorder is here

Andrew Anderson — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 16:44:12 +0000

Toshiba unveiled their newest pocket HD Digital Camcorder at CES yesterday. The CAMILEO S30 camcorder films in full HD resolution with image stabalization at 1080p, 720p and 480p modes.

Technical features include the addition of a touch screen on the 3” LCD display and unsurprisingly it can double as an 8 megapixel camera which is always a nice touch for users. The camcorder comes equipped with 16X digital zoom but no word if that zoom is matched on the camera.

There’s lots of recording modes too including macro for the up close shots, motion detection and slow motion which seem like nice touches.

Beyond the technical highlights, its main feature is definitely the compact size. Toshiba compares it to the size of a smartphone at only three-fourths of an inch thick and a mere 4.2 ounces.

We’re a bit disheartened that it comes with only a 4GB digital SD memory card but this shouldn’t be too surprising. 4GB will only hold about 30mins of HD video at 1080p but if you shell out for a 64GB card you can store about 10 hours of video.

Toshiba is selling this little guy for $179.99 and you can save $30 buying it through their website which may help to offset the cost of the bigger memory card. Overall at this price point we don’t think you can go wrong.

[Toshiba Camileo]

Toshiba Unveils CAMILEO S30 Compact HD Digital Camcorder

Camcorder Features Touch Screen Navigation, Video and Digital Still Image Stabilization Plus 16X Digital Zoom in Lightweight Ultraportable Package

2011 International CES
LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–CES 2011, LVCC Central Hall Booth #11026 — Toshiba’s Digital Products Division (DPD), a division of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., today announced the CAMILEO™ S30 camcorder, a new addition to the highly acclaimed CAMILEO S-Series line. Toshiba’s latest lightweight and ultraportable full HD resolution camcorder now features image stabilization in 1080p1, 720p and 480p modes for smooth and clear videos, a touch screen designed for easier navigation and a 16X digital zoom for getting in on the action.

“The CAMILEO S30 camcorder is for those who want an easy to use, compact camcorder at an affordable price with the high quality they expect from Toshiba”
At only three-fourths of an inch thin and weighing only 4.2 ounces2, the CAMILEO S30 is the size of a smartphone.

“The CAMILEO S30 camcorder is for those who want an easy to use, compact camcorder at an affordable price with the high quality they expect from Toshiba,” said Paul Collas, director, accessory marketing, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., Digital Products Division. “This camcorder is another step in Toshiba’s expansion of products for consumers who enjoy capturing, sharing, editing and viewing their lives in HD.”

The camcorder’s swiveling three-inch diagonal LCD display3 now features a touch screen, making navigation through menus easier than ever. In addition, the CAMILEO S30 doubles as an eight megapixel digital still camera for great pictures every time. The compact device also accommodates an SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card with up to 64GB capacity for an estimated 10 hours of recording at 1080p, or 24 hours at the lowest setting4.

Consumers can also view videos and still photos directly on a computer or HDTV with the included HDMI® cable. Another key feature is the Internet Upload Button, which allows users to quickly and easily upload videos and photos to YouTube™, Facebook®, Twitter and Picasa®.

The new CAMILEO S30 will be on display at Pepcom Digital Experience! taking place on January 5, 2011.

Pricing and Availability

The CAMILEO S30 is immediately available at toshibadirect.com and at a variety of major consumer electronics and computer stores nationwide starting at $179.99 MSRP5.

Detailed product information is available at camileo.toshiba.com and images are available at http://bit.ly/2011Q1-S30.

Connect with Toshiba on Twitter at twitter.com/ToshibaLaptops and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ToshibaLaptopsUS.

About Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc. (TAIS)

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., TAIS is comprised of four business units: Digital Products Division, Imaging Systems Division, Storage Device Division, and Telecommunication Systems Division. Together, these divisions provide mobile products and solutions, including industry-leading portable computers; televisions, TV/DVD Combination products, Blu-ray Disc and DVD products, and portable devices; imaging products for the security, medical and manufacturing markets; storage products for automotive, computer and consumer electronics applications; and IP business telephone systems with unified communications, collaboration and mobility applications. TAIS provides sales, marketing and services for its wide range of products in the United States and Latin America.

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