The new Sony Handycam CX6EK is the world’s smallest, lightest HD camcorder, and also offers 6.1 megapixel still images. The Sony CX6EK features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with 10x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilisation for shake-free pictures. HD 1080i video files, AVCHD compression technology and support for the Memory Stick format round out the specification.

The ARCHOS 404 Camcorder is the first portable media player to feature a built-in camcorder. it features a a 30GB hard drive for capturing up to 80 hours of VGA-quality video or 300,000 photos, 1.3 megapixel camera and 3.5-inch LCD screen. The ARCHOS 404 Camcorder is priced at $299.99 and is available now at http://www.archos.com

CES 2007: Canon USA Press Release

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 5, 2007 (CES Booth #12606) – Canon’s new DC50 DVD Camcorder is a dream come true for discerning video enthusiasts and photo buffs seeking an easy way to take, view and share vibrant video and spectacular photos. Canon’s flagship DVD Camcorder starts with the convenience that direct-to-DVD recording offers and then packs advanced video features and photo power, exclusive engineering excellence and intuitive imaging expertise into a compact camcorder that is the soul of simplicity to operate and the master collector of memories for years to come. The Canon DC50 DVD Camcorder incorporates a robust 5.39 Megapixel CCD Image Sensor with an RGB Primary Color Filter that provides vibrantly colored video and brilliant five megapixel photos.

Sony Press Release

Tokyo, Japan, July 13, 2006 - Panasonic, the brand name for which Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. is known and Sony Corporation (hereafter Sony) announced jointly today the commencement of licensing for “AVCHD,” the high definition (HD) digital video camera recorder format, as well as expansion of the format’s specifications. Panasonic and Sony announced basic specifications for “AVCHD” on May 11th this year, and since then have extensively promoted the format throughout the industry while preparing for licensing. Then, the two companies have decided to include memory cards (SD Memory Card and Memory Stick) and hard disk drives as applicable recording media of the format in addition to previously-announced 8cm DVD. This is for the purpose of broadening the range of applicable media, thereby allowing wide variety of products to be developed by various manufacturers. The new specification was defined as “AVCHD” format Version 1.0.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon launches the DC40 – 4.29 Megapixel perpetual curve camcorder

Canon is pleased to announce the launch of its High Resolution flagship DVD camcorder: the 4.29 Megapixel CCD Canon DC40. Recording true widescreen video straight to DVD (-R/-RW), with advanced digital photography functions, the Canon DC40 effortlessly combines high power shooting with beautiful styling: the camcorder’s perpetual curve design has been ergonomically engineered for precision handheld shooting.

The JVC Everio GZ-MG70 is introduced. The JVC Everio GZ-MG70 is a 2 megapixel camcorder with a 30Gb internal hard-drive for storage. The JVC Everio GZ-MG70 will be available next month and will sell for about $1,100.

JVC Press Release

New GZ-MG70 features internal 30GB hard drive – records seven hours of DVD movie-quality video

WAYNE, NJ, September 29, 2005 – JVC today announced the addition of a two-megapixel model to its Everio G series line of hard disk camcorders. The new GZ-MG70 features a built-in 30 gigabyte (GB) hard disk drive and a sensor that uses 1.2 megapixels to capture full 16:9 or 4:3 video with digital stabilization, as well as two megapixels for up to 1600 x 1200 pixel digital stills.

JVC’s Everio G Series camcorders eliminate the need to carry tapes, discs or any media at all, yet can record up to seven hours of DVD movie-quality video or more than 10 hours at DVD camcorder-quality. To put this storage capacity in context, it would take 22 single sided DVD camcorder discs (8 cm/20-minute discs) to hold just seven hours of video at camcorder quality.

In addition to native 16:9 and 4:3 DVD movie quality video, the new camcorder’s 2.12 megapixel CCD enables shooting of detailed JPEG photos of up to 1600 x 1200 pixels. The hard disk’s high capacity means that nearly 10,000 photos can be shot and still have room for hours of video, even at the highest quality settings.

Panasonic Press Release

Lightweight, Ultra-Compact Model SDR-S100 Features Leica Dicomar Lens, Optical Image Stabilizer, 10X Optical Zoom

SECAUCUS, NJ (September 2, 2005)—Panasonic today announced another ground-breaking innovation in digital video and optical technologies: the world’s first 3CCD SD camcorder. The lightweight, super-portable SDR-S100 records high-quality MPEG2 video onto SD Memory Cards, and features a high-performance Leica Dicomar lens, 10X optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilization. The SDR-S100’s fast response time and rugged, shock-resistant design also make it the perfect “take-anywhere” camcorder for spontaneous shooting.

Canon Optura 600 and Canon Optura S1 camcorders are announced today. The Canon Optura 600 produces 4.3 megapixel still images and offers features like Auto Exposure Bracketing, Continuous Shooting Mode and control over metering mode and scene modes. The Canon Optura 600 Mini-DV camcorder will be available in September for an estimated selling price of $1,099. The Canon Optura S1 has a 2.2 megapixel CCD sensor and built-in image stabilization. The Canon Optura S1 Mini-DV camcorder will be available in mid-September for an estimated selling price of $799.

Canon USA Press Release

Two New Canon Optura Camcorders Offer Best of Both Worlds with Stylish Designs and Premium Video and Photo Capability
 
LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—July 28, 2005—Canon Optura 600 Model is World’s Smallest* 4.3 Megapixel Camcorder; Canon Optura S1 Camcorder Offers Two-in-One Functionality in a Trend-Setting Design  

Customers can double their pleasure with the newest two Canon Optura Mini-DV camcorders which offer stunning digital video and still performance in stylish form factors that beg to be held. With the new Canon Optura 600 camcorder users get high-quality 4.3-megapixel image reproduction for crisp video and photos in a sleek but elegant design. For customers looking for a stylish but compact camcorder with great video and still image capability that’s a snap to use, the new 2.2 megapixel Canon Optura S1 model is designed just for them. The Optura 600 and Optura S1 models are the smallest* 4.3 megapixel and 2.2 megapixel camcorders, respectively, on the market.

JVC Press Release

NO TAPE, NO DISC – NEW JVC CAMCORDERS FEATURE LARGE CAPACITY, BUILT-IN HARD DISK DRIVES

New Everio G Series records more than 10.5 hours of DVD-quality video.

NEW YORK, June 14, 2005 – JVC today announced a new series of camcorders that eliminates the need to carry tapes, discs or any media at all, yet can record up to seven hours of DVD movie-quality video. They also record more than 10.5 hours at a quality level comparable to a DVD camcorder’s 30-minute mode. The new JVC Everio G Series camcorders record to a built-in hard disk drive and will be available in 20 and 30 gigabyte (GB) versions, offering unprecedented camcorder storage capacity.

JVC GR-X5 is announced. The JVC GR-X5 is a 3-CCD MiniDV camcorder that dedicates a a 1.33 (1.23 effective) megapixel CCD to each colour, red, green and blue. The JVC GR-X5 also produces 5 megapixel still images and supports the PictBridge printing standard. Price and avavilability of the JVC GR-X5 to be announced.

JVC Press Release

JVC introduces its first 3-CCD MiniDV camcorder, a uniquely-designed compact model that also delivers 5-megapixel digital still image performance.

The new JVC GR-X5 features individual CCDs for red, green and blue to produce vivid images with true-to-life colour, and advanced pixel shift technology to deliver 5 megapixel-class stills.  To further enhance performance, the new Mini DV camcorder includes JVC’s proprietary Megabrid imaging engine that separately optimises image quality for video and digital stills.  This technology is packed into a fresh, new design that is both compact and comfortable to hold and operate.

The JVC GR-X5 is the MiniDV-based sibling of the new 3-CCD/5-Megapixel still Everio hard disk camcorder, but tailored to the MiniDV user.

Canon UK Press Release

Simplicity from Canon’s new MV880X digital video camera

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the new flagship to the MV800 digital video camera series: the 1.33 Megapixel MV880X. The camcorder is designed to appeal to style conscious first time buyers looking for quality, simplicity and high resolution 16:9 mode. With its dark metal finish, the MV880X combines Canon’s easiest ever operation with uncompromising build quality and precision optics.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon’s new advanced image stabiliser MVX40 series digital video cameras

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the release of two new optical image stabilizer digital video cameras, the 2.2 Megapixel 14x zoom MVX45i and 10x zoom MVX40. Drawing on Canon’s heritage in digital still camera development, the two digital video cameras incorporate many advanced digital still camera features, functions and effects that surpass that of many purpose-built digital cameras. Both models feature 16:9 widescreen mode, built in stills flash, and Super Bright 2.5” colour LCD screen.

Sony Press Release

Sony DCR-HC42E and Sony DCR-HC39E
One step ahead, the Sony DCR-HC42E (DCRHC42E) and Sony DCR-HC39E (DCRHC39E) Compact DV camcorders use the full width of a 1megapixel CCD to always capture and playback your images in true 16:9 widescreen. A high picture quality for both movies and still images is guaranteed and true 16:9 movies can be played back to the full on a home theatre system.

Sony DCR-HC19E, Sony DCR-HC22E and Sony DCR-HC32E
The Sony DCR-HC19E (DCRHC19E), Sony DCR-HC22E (DCRHC22E) and Sony DCR-HC32E (DCRHC32E) camcorders will ensure that the quality of your image will remain high as you zoom into your subject from a distance with featuring Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens capable of a 20X optical zoom.

DXG USA Press Release

DXG USA Rocks Digital Camera Industry With Eye-Catching Digital Camcorder / MP3 Player; Retailers and Consumers Take Notice of Stylish 5-in-1 DXG-305V

LAS VEGAS—(Business Wire)—Jan. 6, 2005—DXG USA, one of the fastest growing digital camera manufacturers in the United States, today announced its latest trend-setting digital camcorder for entry-level enthusiasts. The new DXG-305V digital camcorder is a perfect 5-in-1 companion for those on the go by combining a video camcorder, MP3 player, 3.0 megapixel digital still camera, voice recorder, and PC camera - all in one compact design the length and width of a credit card. The DXG-305V is available in four fashionable colors including iridescent blue, hot pink, lime green, and silver. It will be available at retail stores nationwide beginning in February 2005 for $129.

Samsung Press Release

Digital Video Leader Expands its Award-Winning Camcorder Line With The New SC-D557 DVD Camcorder

Las Vegas, NV - Samsung Electronics America, Inc., the fastest growing consumer electronics brand, expands its innovative digital camcorder line with the new SC-D557 DVD Camcorder. The compact camera sets a high standard for convenience and ease-of-use, enabling consumers to capture their most important moments as DVD movies that last a lifetime. The SC-D557 DVD Camcorder will be on display during CES 2005 in the Samsung booth, #11024 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 6th - 9th.

Samsung Press Release

SAMSUNG Unveils New MINI-DV Camcorder Line That’s Feature Rich And Smaller Than Ever

Ultra Compact New Additions Bolster Samsung’s Award-Winning Camcorder Line

Las Vegas, NV - Proving that great things do come in small packages, Samsung Electronics America, Inc., an award-winning DV-technology innovator, expands its line with three new Mini-DV Camcorders, the SC-D353, SC-D455, and SC-D955. All combine superior video capture capability, enhanced usability and features, and a streamlined, lightweight design. Samsung’s full camcorder line will be on display during CES 2005 at the Samsung booth, #11024 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 6th - 9th.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the stylish and super-compact 1.33 Megapixel MVX350i, MVX330i and MVX300 digital video cameras. The MVX350i features a 20x optical zoom (400x combined), while the MVX330i and MVX300 both feature an 18x zoom (360x combined). Digital video cameras in the range incorporate high-resolution 16:9 mode, built in mini video light (MVX350i), digital still flash (MVX350i and MVX330i), Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) and large 2.5” 123K pixel LCD screen.

With generous specifications and highly sculptured ergonomics that include flush switches and recessed buttons, the super-compacts are expected to appeal to consumers demanding feature-rich products with superior finish quality and design.

All models utilise Canon’s DIGIC DV processor for split path video and still image processing. All are PictBridge compliant and feature a Print/Share button for simple PC-less printing of digital stills direct to compatible photo printers, and PC/internet uploads. The MVX350i comes equipped with a 0.6x wide converter lens.

Canon UK Press Release

Easy operation camcorders ideal for first time buyers

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of a new range of 800K pixel digital video cameras: the MV800 series. Designed to appeal to first time buyers looking for simplicity and quality, the MV850i, MV830i, MV830 and MV800 combine Canon’s easiest ever operation with uncompromising build quality and precision optics.

A new ‘Easy’ button which puts the camcorder into full auto mode has been introduced for the benefit of users looking for immediate, uncomplicated results straight out of the box. All models in the range feature a powerful optical zoom: 22x (440x combined) for the MV850i and 20x for the MV830i, MV830 and MV800. They also feature Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS), high-resolution true 16:9 wide screen mode with letterbox display, a double neutral density filter, web cam functionality, Super Night mode (MV850i) and Night Mode. The MV850i, MV830i and MV830 feature digital still capability plus PictBridge for direct printing to compatible photo printers without the computer.

Despite their tiny size (only 51mm thick and weighing just 430g), the digital video cameras feature a large 2.4” colour LCD screen and are powered with the same DIGIC-DV processor used to drive Canon’s high end digital video cameras.

JVC Press Release

Ultra-Compact & Compact models deliver a 30% smaller design

LAS VEGAS, January 6, 2005 – JVC today introduced a new Mini DV digital camcorder line, distinguished by a new compact design that’s easier to use and small enough to take anywhere. For 2005, JVC offers a wider range of camcorder options, from value-packed entry-level models to feature-rich units.

“From top to bottom, this year’s camcorder lineup offers more features per model than anything that has come before,” said Dave Owen, General Manager, Consumer Video, JVC Company of America. “As in previous years, JVC continues to dominate the market in offering a unique, compact design, 30 percent smaller than 2004 models, while still paying special attention to comfort, usability, convenience and style throughout the 2005 line.”

Sony Europe Press Release

Sony presents the world’s smallest and lightest miniDV camcorder* and ultra-modern designed DVD Handycam (*As of November 2004)

The world’s smallest and lightest MiniDV format camcorder* the DCR-PC55E and DCR-PC53E will be launched in February 2005. (*As of November 2004)
 
The modern designed engineering DVD Handycam, DCR-DVD7 will be launched in May 2005
Thanks to mobile-friendly size and features the camcorders are always ready for shooting and playing back, whatever the situation.

DCR-PC55E and DCR-PC53E
Wherever you go, whenever you shoot, the world’s smallest and lightest Handycam is always on your side. The tiny DCR-PC55E and its sibling DCR-PC53E are scarcely larger than the mini DV cassettes they use. Fully featured, they are packed with innovative technology such as a 3.0-inch Hybrid LCD monitor which simply swivels round to display your high-resolution video.

DCR-DVD7E
The new design of the DVD Handycam DCR-DVD7E offers a brand new shooting style for camcorders. All the convenience of DVD recording has been combined with modern styling in the futuristic DCR-DVD7E, supporting DVD-R/-RW/+RW compatible formats for shooting and playing back.