Cameras: News and Updates

(Las Vegas) New JVC Everio camcorders announced at International CES offer built-in Wi-Fi that allows video clips and still images to be emailed, wireless transfer of files to smartphones, and a range of other functions. The new Wi-Fi models are part of an all-new seven-model Everio line that spans a wide range of needs, from point-and-shoot simplicity for the casual shooter to full manual control for the serious videographer.

All new Everio models record in 1920 x 1080 Full HD based on the AVCHD format, and offer high quality recording in UXP mode with a 24 Mbps sampling rate. Also, all models offer HDMI® output for superior results when viewing on the latest large-screen TVs.

The Wi-Fi feature is available on four 2012 Everio camcorders that combine the benefits of a conventional camcorder, such as superior image quality and a powerful zoom, with the communication convenience of a smartphone. Several unique features are available thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi. A free app for an Android device or iPhone/iPad makes it easy to wirelessly transfer video and stills to a smartphone for quick sharing via the internet. It also allows the phone to be used as a remote control for the Everio and offers geotagging of video and photo files in conjunction with the smartphone’s GPS. Video Email allows 15-second video clips (640 x 360 pixels) to be sent directly from the Everio to up to eight email addresses. Live Monitoring allows real time monitoring on a smartphone or computer of images taken with the Everio. And Auto Photo Email automatically emails stills taken using Everio’s movement detection function to a computer or smartphone.

"With Wi-Fi models, JVC fills the gap between a traditional camcorder and a smartphone by combining great image quality with advanced photographic features, such as a powerful zoom and excellent communication capabilities," explained Dave Owen, vice president, Consumer Video Division, JVC Americas Corp.

For 2012, the Everio line breaks down into three product series, each designed to meet the needs of different users.

Everio E/EX series models offer basic point-and-shoot simplicity as well as a number of helpful features. Using either of the two EX models, even beginners can shoot excellent videos with the help of Smile Meter, which shows how big a smile is in percentage points, Smile Shot, which automatically takes a digital still when it detects a great smile, and Pet Shot, which automatically shoots stills when a dog or cat faces the camera. Various animation effects, such as ribbons and glasses that correctly superimpose onto people’s faces, and handwritten titles, can be added to decorate any shot. The KONICA MINOLTA HD LENS assures high quality images, while a 40x Optical Zoom enables close-up shots from far away, with no sacrifice in optical quality. Advanced Image Stabilizer effectively counters camera shake. Another new feature for 2012 is a zoom microphone that changes the focal point to match the picture so that what’s seen can be more clearly heard. There’s even a Silent Mode that lets the user mute camcorder sounds and darken the LCD for those times when unobtrusive recording is advised, such as when recording school plays or lectures. A Windows® application to support image management, simple editing and easy sharing is supplied.

The Everio V/VX series features an unconventional design, with flat surfaces and high grade materials such as the aluminum panel LCD door and front end. Super LoLux with an F1.2 lens assures high quality recording even in dim environments. To the substantial feature mix of the E/EX series, V/VX adds Hi-Speed Recording and Super Slow to slow down movement to one-fifth its original speed, and Motor Drive for rapid-fire capture of digital stills. Image stability is doubly assured with both Advanced Image Stabilizer and Optical Image Stabilizer.

The Everio GX series model GZ-GX1 takes an entirely different approach to styling, emphasizing its utility as an image acquisition tool. It has a prominent lens barrel that houses the 29.5mm Wide/HD GT Lens — a lens developed specifically to yield optimal results together with the 1/2.3" 10 Megapixel Back-Illuminated CMOS sensor. Recording is done in 1920 x 1080 Full HD at 60P, compliant with AVCHD Progressive standards (conventional interlace is also supported). The Ultra Resolution mode shoots 11 Megapixel digital stills. Additional features available only on GZ-GX1 include Headphone Output, Microphone Input, Accessory Shoe, Remote Control, as well as the ability to attach conversion lenses and filters.

In an industry-first, all models offer a mobile user guide that can be accessed by directly inputing the URL or by using a smartphone to read the QR code displayed in Everio’s LCD screen. The site has been optimized for smartphone viewing so that it’s easy to read and learn how to use various recording functions, access a troubleshooting guide, or refer to instructions on playback and deleting content, in a choice of English, Spanish or French.

Resources:

http://everio.jvc.com/