Panasonic launches $500 Lumix DMC-LF1 enthusiast compact with WiFi, NFC

New Sleek, Stylish Advanced Compact Digital Camera with EVF LUMIX DMC-LF1

Featuring F2.0 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON Lens with 7.1x Optical Zoom*
* 35mm camera equivalent: 28-200mm

Panasonic is proud to announce a new digital compact camera LUMIX DMC-LF1 from new LF series – a sister line of the world-renowned LX series which have been long acclaimed by the photography enthusiasts for its high picture quality and creative descriptiveness. The new DMC-LF1 incorporates F2.0 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens and 1/1.7-inch large High Sensitivity MOS Sensor in sleek, stylish profile with practical EVF (Electronic View Finder). The F2.0 fast LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens boasts excellent descriptiveness produced by its outstanding quality and performance yet achieves 7.1x high optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 28-200mm) making this camera even more versatile. The 1/1.7-inch large High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and the high performance Venus Engine achieves clear image recording even at high sensitivity setting taking advantage of rich amount of light.

With the Wi-Fi® connectivity with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, the DMC-LF1 features "Touch & Share" in which users can connect the camera to their smartphone/tablet anywhere at one-touch to share a image easily right on the spot. It is also possible to use a smartphone/tablet as a multi-capable remote shutter with a monitor. With the new Instant Transfer function, photos are automatically sent to the smartphone/tablet right after shooting. On the other hand, both photo and video can be archived to the registered digital equipment such as PC automatically via the wireless access point (router) at home.

For step-up users who pursue higher expressive performance, the DMC-LF1 comes equipped with a variety of manual functionalities. Newly integrated Control Ring and Composition Guide help experience advanced photography with ease. A variety of special effects that add fun to shooting experience are also integrated in DMC-LF1 – Creative Panorama, Creative Control and Creative Retouch featuring a total of max.15 attractive filter effects*.

The DMC-LF1 records 1,920 x 1,080 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) full-HD video recording in AVCHD / MP4** with high quality stereo sound. The 7.1x optical zoom is also available in video recording. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) with Active Mode powerfully suppresses blur even in video recording. In addition to the 0.2-inch 200K-dot practical EVF, the DMC-LF1 features 3-inch large 920K-dot Intelligent LCD assuring highly visibility in both shooting and image playback.

Advanced in function and more fashionable in design – the DMC-LF1 is for users who wants to get more inspired by photography in their sophisticated lifestyles.
* Some modes of Creative Control cannot be used in Creative Panorama and Creative Retouch.
** 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL) in MP4 recording.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [AVCHD] is 29 minutes 59 seconds in some European / Asian areas.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [MP4] is 29 minutes 59 seconds or up to 4 GB.
- You can check the recordable time on the screen. (For [FHD] in [MP4] format, the file size is large and so the recordable time will drop below 29 minutes 59 seconds.)

1. The F2.0 Fast LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON Lens with 7.1x Optical Zoom

The DMC-LF1 is equipped with newly developed 28mm wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens with 7.1x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 28-200mm). This supreme lens features F2.0 high speed, which boasts approx. 2x higher speed of F2.8 lens, itself generally considered a fast lens. The extraordinarily rich amount of light allows not only using higher shutter speed to capture stunningly clear, sharp, blur-free images in lower lighting situation, but also giving impressive expression to the image by reproducing exquisite gradation and mellow defocus. The lens unit consists of 10 elements in 8 groups with 4 aspherical lenses with 7 aspherical surfaces including an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens that compensates for chromatic aberration at entire zoom range. Panasonic achieves integrating F2.0 fast lens in this middle-zoom compact camera by combining the company's unique technologies – a technology for the mass production of a slim lens with a flange of just 0.3mm and a black-box technology for assembling spherical lenses and aspherical lenses.

The super-high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens minimizes distortion at the wide end, so users can get stunning, true-to-life images with outstanding resolution and detail. For more effective countermeasure against hand-shake which tends to occur in shooting with high zoom, POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) with Active Mode is equipped with DMC-LF1 to powerfully suppress blur in both photo and video recording.

2. The 1/1.7-inch Large 12.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor and Venus Engine

The DMC-LF1 integrates 1/1.7-inch, 12.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor which is larger in size than standard digital compact cameras. Thanks to the extensive light receiving area of each cell, the performance of high sensitivity image recording in low light is obviously superior with its excellent S/N ratio and wide dynamic range. The result is a high resolution image with stunning clarity not only in high sensitivity recording but also in low ISO setting reproducing rich gradation with the exquisitely wide dynamic range even when the situation is highly contrasted.

The high performance image processor Venus Engine also boasts advanced signal processing. The Venus Engine enables deliberate noise reduction process without missing low-frequency noise by searching large detection area to realize high sensitivity image recording even at ISO12800. In addition, Edge Smoothing NR technology helps rendering smooth edges even in image recording at high ISO setting.

The high speed digital signal output technology is integrated to realize high speed consecutive shooting at 10 fps in full resolution with mechanical shutter and to record full-HD 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) smooth video in AVCHD/MP4*. It also contributes to the high speed Sonic Speed AF to catch the most fleeting shooting opportunities. In addition, the high speed burst shooting at 60 fps is available to capture subject with fast motion**.
* 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL) in MP4 recording.
** In max. 2.5-megapixel (4:3), 3-megapixel (3:2), 3.5-megapixel (16:9) and 2-megapixel (1:1).

3. Practical EVF and Large, High Resolution LCD for Easy Viewing of Image

The DMC-LF1 is a sleek, stylish digital compact camera but it comes with 0.2-inch EVF (Electronic Viewfinder) with 200K-dot resolution, 100% field of view. It assures stable framing and high visibility of live view image even under strong sunlight.
The 3.0-inch, 920,000-dot Intelligent LCD with super high resolution and a wide viewing angle features automatic brightness adjustment in 7 steps as the surrounding brightness level changes, ensuring easy visibility at all times. The big screen with AR coating reflects fine details, making it easy to check the focus before shooting. It also serves as a small photo and video viewer, allowing the user and friends to enjoy viewing the still and motion images together.

4. Shoot, View, Share Images in More Flexible Way with Wi-Fi® Connectivity with NFC

The DMC-LF1 integrates a Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to offer more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation. The NFC allows "Touch & Share" in which users can connect the camera to their smartphone/tablet anywhere at one-touch to share a image easily right on the spot by just pairing the two devices. What is new is that the setup is extremely easy and finishes within a few seconds, making it possible to pair the camera directly to the smartphone/tablet without connection procedure of information input for authorization.
With a smartphone/tablet, remote shooting of both photo and video is available by using the smartphone/tablet for a remote shutter with a monitor which displayed live at smooth 30 fps.

Not only releasing a shutter, zooming, focusing and settings of shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation are all controllable with a smartphone/tablet.

The Instant Transfer function allows the camera to transfer the photo data to the designated electronic devices automatically whenever shutter is released. In playback mode, users can also touch the image displayed on the camera to transfer it directly to the smartphone/tablet right on the spot. In addition, it is possible to tag the location information to the image by utilizing the GPS (Global Positioning System) log of a smartphone / tablet. All these flexible shooting / browsing / sharing style are made possible with the DMC-LF1 and the Panasonic's dedicated application software "Panasonic Image App" for iOS / Android smartphones/tablets.
Archiving images becomes easy. DMC-LF1 transfer the data to PC or other compliant electronic devices automatically via the wireless access point (router) at home. Also, users can save precious record of memory to the Panasonic's exclusive cloud service "LUMIX CLUB".

The Wi-Fi Direct™ function allows direct playback of images on the DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) – compliant VIERA HDTV*.
* Using [Playback on TV] of the Wi-Fi function, you can display images on a TV that supports the Digital Media Renderer (DMR) function of the DLNA standard. Please check the following website about the compatible devices for details.
http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/

5. Get More Inspired with Specialty Functions

A variety of advanced functions are equipped with DMC-LF1 to spur more interest of step-up users in photography. Manual control is easy to try thanks to the Control Ring, which enables direct, intuitive control over frequently-used settings – zooming, aperture, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity and filter of Creative Control / Creative Panorama. To assist learning photography, Composition Guide is also available in DMC-LF1. It is easy to shoot a photo in good composition by just choosing most suitable pattern of composition from – Rule of Thirds Offset, Diagonal Lines, Tunnel, Radiation1, Radiation2 and S-shape – and framing the subjects along the guided lines. Well-composed image has a stunning perspective and dramatically look refined. This function can be used in shooting not only with LCD but also with EVF. Furthermore, DMC-LF1 is equipped with Level Gauge to detect the horizontal / vertical angle of view using its internal level working with the acceleration sensor. This is helpful to keep horizontal composition precisely even when shooting in high or low angle.

6. Creative Panorama & Creative Control / Creative Retouch

The DMC-LF1 is also equipped with popular Creative Control and Creative Retouch featuring a total of 15 filter effects – Retro, Expressive, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Toy Effect, Miniature Effect, Star Filter, Cross Process, Soft Focus, One Point Color and Old Days. The Creative Control lets users shoot with a filter effect while checking how it makes difference on the picture, which can be used for video recording, too*. The Creative Retouch enables applying a filter effect on the picture even after shooting in camera.

With the Creative Panorama function, it is possible to apply filter effect of Retro, Expressive, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Star Filter, Cross Process, Soft Focus, One Point Color and Old Days to the horizontal / vertical panoramic image, which can be shot by sweeping the camera in any four directions – to right, left, top or bottom.
* Soft Focus and Star Filter cannot be used in video recording.

7. Other Attractive Features for DMC-LF1

High Quality 1920 x 1080 Full-HD 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) Video with Stereo Sound
The DMC-LF1 records 1920 x 1080 at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) full HD videos with full-time AF and high quality stereo sound in the AVCHD format which excels in both compression efficiency and compatibility with AV equipment for playback. With a dedicated video record button on the back, users can instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without any having to make any extra setting adjustments. Videos can also be recorded in MP4 format for playback on a PC or other portable electronic devices without having to convert the files.
* 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL) in MP4 recording.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [AVCHD] is 29 minutes 59 seconds in some European / Asian areas.
- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [MP4] is 29 minutes 59 seconds or up to 4 GB.
- You can check the recordable time on the screen. (For [FHD] in [MP4] format, the file size is large and so the recordable time will drop below 29 minutes 59 seconds.)
iA+ (Intelligent Auto Plus) Mode for Photo and Video
For beginners, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode supports taking beautiful pictures with a variety of shooting-assist functions including AF Tracking, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition and Intelligent ISO Control. The iA Plus mode lets users adjust defocusing area in the background, exposure compensation and white balance for more flexible control.
AC / USB Power Charging

The camera's battery can be recharged either via AC or via USB according to the users' convenience.

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By: Unknown On 8:43 PM

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Panasonic Lumix GF6 announced for the US, shipping in June for $600

LUMIX GF6 - Wi-Fi® / NFC SMARTPHONE LINKED SOCIAL MEDIA DSLM CAMERA... UNWIRE YOUR CREATIVITY

Featuring 19 In-camera Creative Effects and Creative HD Video Capture

Share Your Images Using the Panasonic Image App with your Favorite Social Media

SECAUCUS, NJ (April 16, 2013) - Panasonic is proud to introduce the DMC-GF6 (GF6), a new Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera which is the most compact of the LUMIX G family. The new 16.00–megapixel Live MOS Sensor achieves both high-resolution and high sensitivity image and video recording. The Venus Engine was also newly developed for the GF6 to attain both high-performance signal processing and noise reduction, achieving a maximum ISO 25,600 (Extended) making the most of the new sensor.

The GF6 is more than an interchangeable lens camera...it's a creative magic box full of features including the new Self Shot, Creative Panorama, and Stop Motion Animation, in addition to the popular Creative Control mode that boasts 19 fascinating filter effects. Stop Motion Animation delivers unique stop motion video while the Clear Retouch function gives you the power to erase unwanted parts of a picture after shooting. Both of these functions occur automatically right in the camera.

The GF6 boasts high-speed, high precision Light Speed AF (auto focus) including practical full-time AF and tracking AF is available for video recording. The newly integrated Low Light AF enables accurate focusing on the subject even in low-lit situations. It is ready to shoot in only 0.5 seconds after start-up saving the end-user from missing a shooting opportunity.

The GF6 might just be the smartphone's next BFF. With the Wi-Fi® connectivity featuring NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, users can connect the camera to their smartphone/tablet anywhere with one-touch, which makes sharing images much easier. It is also possible to use a smartphone/tablet as a multi-capable remote shutter with a monitor. With the Instant Transfer function, photos are automatically sent to the smartphone/tablet immediately after shooting. In addition, both images and video can be archived to the registered digital equipment such as a PC automatically via the wireless access point (router) at home.

The GF6 records 1920 x 1080 at 60i (60 Hz) full-HD video in AVCHD with high quality stereo sound. The P/A/S/M mode in video recording is also available for more expressive creation of motion picture footage. Despite its sleek, compact profile, the GF6 touts a built-in flash (GN6.3 ISO160?m / GN5.0 ISO100?m) and 3.0-inch large approx.180° tiltable monitor.

1. New 16.00-Megapixel Live MOS Sensor and Venus Engine for Superb Picture Quality

The GF6 integrates a new 16.00-megapixel Live MOS sensor which enables high resolution and high sensitivity image recording while minimizing noise. The image processor Venus Engine is also newly developed to feature advanced noise reduction systems so that every part of the image – from shadow to highlight – is faithfully reproduced.

2. Pursuing Even Higher Speed Response and Mobility
It takes only approximately 0.5 sec to capture a photo after startup. Not only does the rear monitor have touch control but the layout of the devices makes the camera control smooth and easy.
With the Full-area Touch AF, it is possible to set focus on any point in the field of view which yields quick and intuitive focusing operation with free frame composition. In addition, the newly adopted Touch AE (Auto Exposure) function allows the user to set focus and exposure with a single touch on the subject displayed on the monitor.

3. A Variety of Shooting Functions for Artwork Creation
The GF6 is not just a high quality camera but an advanced photographic tool enhancing the shooting experience with a wide variety of options. With the new Self Shot mode, users can shoot their own portraits by stretching an arm to hold the camera with the rear monitor flipped approximately180°vertically to frame the shot properly. A variety of options such as Creative Control can be applied on this self-portrait as well.
The popular Creative Control mode is upgraded by increasing its filter option from 14 (for GF5) to 19 (for GF6) adding new Old Days, Sunshine*, Bleach Bypass, Toy Pop and Fantasy in addition to the conventional Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic, Soft Focus*, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, One Point Color, Cross Process, Low Key, Toy Effect and Star Filter* and Miniature Effect** mode.
The new Stop Motion Animation function enables producing a stop motion (stop frame) video in camera with pictures that are sequentially shot while moving the object by degrees. This effect makes the object appear as if it is moving by itself.
Another new in-camera function is Clear Retouch, which makes it possible to erase unwanted objects or figures in an image by just tracing over them on monitor with a fingertip. They naturally disappear without hurting the image.
* For photo only
** Sound will not be recorded with [MINIATURE EFFECT] in Creative Control Mode and approximately 1/10 of the time period is recorded. (If you record for 10 minutes, the resulting motion picture recording will be approximately 1 minute long)

4. Wireless Connectivity for One-Touch Picture Sharing & Remote Shooting via Wi-Fi® / NFC with Smartphones
The GF6 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to offer a more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with compatible smartphones/tablets. All these flexible shooting / browsing / sharing styles are made possible with the GF6 and Panasonic's dedicated application software Panasonic Image App for iOS / Android smartphones/tablets.
Users can connect the camera with a smartphone/tablet by just bumping them together. What is new is that the setup is extremely quick and easy, making it possible to pair the camera directly to the smartphone/tablet without going through any connection procedures to authorize information inputs.
Remote shooting of both photo and video* is available by using the smartphone/tablet for a remote shutter with a monitor which displays live at a smooth 30 fps. Not only the shutter release, but zooming**, focusing and setting the shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation are all controllable with a smartphone/tablet.
The Instant Transfer function allows the camera to transfer the photo data to the designated electronic device automatically when the shutter is released. In playback mode, users can also touch the image displayed on the camera to transfer it directly to the smartphone/tablet. In addition, it is possible to tag the location information to the image by utilizing the GPS (Global Positioning System) log of a smartphone / tablet.
Archiving images becomes easy. GF6 transfers the data to PC or other electronic devices automatically via the wireless access point (router) at home. Also, with Panasonic's exclusive cloud service "LUMIX CLUB", the GF6 can automatically synchronize images via internet with the designated devices and web services like Facebook™, Flickr™, Picasa™, Twitter™ or YouTube™.
The Wi-Fi Direct™ function allows direct playback of images on the DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) – compliant VIERA HDTV***.

*For remote shooting of video, start/stop recording is available over smartphone/tablet control
**With LUMIX G Power Zoom Lens H-PS14042 or H-PS45175.
*** Using [Playback on TV] of the Wi-Fi function, you can display images on a TV that supports the Digital Media Renderer (DMR) function of the DLNA standard. Please check the following website about the compatible devices for details. http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/

5. Additional Attractive Features for the GF6
High Quality 1920 x 1080 Full-HD Video with Stereo Sound
The GF6 records 1920 x 1080 at 60i (60 Hz) full HD video with full-time AF and high quality stereo sound in the AVCHD format which excels in both compression efficiency and compatibility with AV equipment for playback. With a dedicated video record button on the top, users can instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without having to make any extra setting adjustments. In addition, the P/A/S/M mode also lets users enjoy professional-like expressive video recording. Videos can also be recorded in MP4 format for playback on a PC or other portable electronic devices without having to convert the files.

- Maximum time to record motion pictures continuously with [MP4] is 29 minutes 59 seconds or up to 4 GB.
- You can check the recordable time on the screen. (For [FHD] in [MP4] format, the file size is large and so the recordable time will drop below 29 minutes 59 seconds.)

New 1040K-dot 180?Tiltable Touch Monitor
The new large, approximately 1040K-dot high resolution monitor boasts about 100% of field of view, and it tilts up roughly 180°. The front panel is directly attached to the new In Cell Touch LCD without containing an air layer in between. The result is that the reflection of external light is dramatically suppressed. Together with an increase in resolution by 13% and improved color reproduction by roughly 20%, the monitor for GF6 offers greater visibility.

Advanced iA+ (Intelligent Auto Plus Mode) and Scene Guide for Beginners
For beginners with Digital Single Lens Mirrorless cameras, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode supports capturing images with a variety of shooting-assist functions including AF Tracking, Intelligent D-range Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition and Intelligent ISO Control. The Intelligent Scene Selector now integrates Food Recognition mode. It detects food on the dish and captures it so it looks delicious. The iA Plus mode lets users adjust the defocusing area in the background, exposure compensation and white balance for more flexible control.
The Scene Guide* offers 23 sample pictures shot by professional photographers. Users can choose the one closest to the situation they are going to shoot and optimum parameters for shooting the scene will be automatically set. Furthermore, shooting procedures, technical advice and the recommended interchangeable lens for the scene are displayed for users to improve their photography.

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By: Unknown On 11:14 AM

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Panasonic buries rumors of plasma TV's death

A certain demographic of home theater connoisseurs has fretted for a few weeks over talk that Panasonic might end plasma TV production and research -- would viewers have to resort to anything so vulgar as... an LCD? No, Panasonic says. Despite earlier claims of frozen development, the company's merchandising VP Henry Hauser is emphatic that there remains "room for further improvement" in the plasma realm, and that Panasonic fully intends to develop upgrades. The Viera ZT series we saw at CES will be a launchpad for future work, according to the executive. Hauser's full statement awaits after the break if there are any lingering doubts; for now, it appears that Panasonic values plasma's distinct qualities as much as the next basement movie maven.

"Reports that Panasonic will no longer develop and manufacture Plasma HDTVs are not correct.

"This week in New York City, Panasonic demonstrated the latest development of our gapless Plasma panel technology in our 2013 Smart VIERA ZT Series Plasma HDTV. The technology incorporated into our ZT Series Studio Master Panel will be the basis for continued plasma display panel development and production. While the Smart VIERA ZT Series introduces a new level of Plasma picture quality, we believe there is still room for further improvement and intend to continue to research ways to take our Plasma technology to even higher levels where it also has the potential to be applied in our other Plasma series in the future.

"VIERA Plasma HDTVs continue to set the standard for picture quality and black level excellence and the ZT Series is another example of the continued ability of Plasma to evolve and continue to deliver a best-in-class HDTV."

Source: Panasonic

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By: Unknown On 9:25 PM

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Panasonic reveals pricing for (most) 2013 HDTVs, puts plasma R&D on ice

Panasonic's NYC press event had more than pricing for its media streamers and Blu-ray players, as the company also put tags on its 2013 HDTVs. While it wasn't ready to announces MSRPs for its top of the line ZT60 plasmas that impressed us greatly at CES, it did put prices and shipping windows on its other models (check after the break for a complete list). The former flagship VT60 series will be available in 55-, 60- and 65-inch versions later this month for $2,600, $3,000 and $3,600, respectively. Cheaper plasma models include the ST60 and S60 series, available in sizes up to 60-inches. Its top of the line WT60 LCD LED-lit models will also ship later this month, topped by the 55-inch version with a sticker price of $2,999.

The bad news? While Panasonic's plasma manufacturing will continue, The Verge reports VP Kiyoshi Okamoto confirmed at the event that development has ceased on its plasma models, although some engineers have been shifted to work on OLED displays. We'll see if its recovery efforts and technological developments lead to new large-size OLEDs anytime soon, but for now it appears we're seeing the last of its efforts to push plasma technology forward.

Source: Panasonic

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By: Unknown On 9:03 AM

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Panasonic prices and ships its first media streamers, newest Blu-ray Disc players

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING & AVAILABILITY FOR ITS 2013 BLU-RAY DISC™ PLAYER LINEUP

Panasonic Introduces Two New 3D-Capable Players Featuring Wireless Capabilities for Added Content Viewing

SECAUCUS, NJ (April 9, 2013) – Panasonic, a major developer and contributor to the success of the Blu-ray format, announced today pricing and availability of it 2013 Blu-ray Disc Player lineup which was unveiled last month at the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show. The line-up features two new Full HD 3D models (DMP-BDT330 and DMP-BDT230) and two 2D Blu-ray Disc Players (DMP-BD89 and DMP-BD79) as well as continuations of two successful Full HD 3D 2012 models (DMP-BDT500 and DMP-BBT01).

All four of Panasonic's 3D-capable Blu-ray Disc models include Panasonic's proprietary IPTV platform, VIERA Connect1, while the 2D models feature IP VOD - a service that offers access to a limited, though targeted, selection of popular sites including Netflix, HuluPlus, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube. They also feature a Web Browser with pointer cursor for easy maneuvering, while all models in the 2013 lineup also feature external HDD Playback and personalized menu options on the Blu-ray lineup.

The Panasonic BDT330 model also offers Miracast – a new display mirroring feature which enables users to transfer and display photos, videos, movies, music, and video games from their Smartphone and Tablet devices (Android 4.2 operating system or higher) to their HDTV screen with the swipe of a finger.

All 2013 Panasonic Blu-ray Disc Players include built-in Wi-Fi (with the exception of the BD79 which is wireless-ready), enabling users to access additional content and services through the internet without the need to tether your device. Panasonic's 2013 Blu-ray Disc Players also feature high-quality network audio (DLNA compatible) as well as 192kHz/32bit Audio DAC on select 3D-capable models (BDT500) and built-in 4K up-scaling (BDT330).

Additionally the Panasonic BDT230 and BDT330, BDT500, and BBT01 models feature 2D-3D conversion for any content and the BDT330 and BDT500 models also include twin HDMI ports.

For more information on Panasonic's line of 2013 Blu-ray Disc Players, visit www.panasonic.com.

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PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING & AVAILABILITY FOR ITS INAUGURAL LINE OF STREAMING MEDIA PLAYERS

Sleek and Slim Media Players Feature Built in Wi-Fi for Easy and Versatile Video Viewing

SECAUCUS, NJ (April 9, 2013) – Panasonic, an industry leader and pioneer in the development of emerging video technology, announced today pricing and availability of its first-ever line of Streaming Media Players which were unveiled last month at the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show. The line-up features two models -- the DMP-MST60 and the DMP-MS10 featuring VIERA Connect and IP VOD respectively.

Panasonic's 3D-capable streaming media player, the MST60, features Panasonic's proprietary connected TV platform, VIERA ConnectTM, which enables1 owners of VIERA Connect-enabled Blu-ray Disc Players, Streaming Media Players and Home Theater Systems to turn any TV into a Smart TV with access to a wide range of internet-based video-on-demand content and applications covering everything from news and fitness, social networking, music and online shopping and gaming. The MST60 also includes a Web browser with cursor for easy maneuvering.

The Panasonic MS10 includes built-in Wi-Fi and contains access to IP VOD, giving users the ability to stream many of their favorite TV shows, movies and music from a variety of popular applications including Netflix, Hulu™ Plus, CinemaNow, Vudu, and YouTube™.

Both of Panasonic's streaming media players also include external HDD Playback and the MST60 also features a 2D-3D conversion function and Miracast -- a new display mirroring feature which enables users to transfer and display photos, videos, movies, music, and video games from their Smartphone and Tablet devices (Android 4.2 operating system or higher) to their HDTV screen with the swipe of a finger.

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By: Unknown On 10:49 AM

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 leaks out in white ahead of April 9 launch

After a review was published prematurely on another site revealing specs of Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GF6, Digicam Info has leaked press images of the upcoming model in white. As noted before, the stylish-looking MFT will pack 16-megapixels, a new Venus image engine, low light AF system, 4.2 fps burst speed, 1080-60i video, WiFi, NFC and up to 25,600 ISO, among other features -- if the leaks pan out, of course. We noted earlier that the GF6 would start at around $680 with a 14-42mm kit lens, and sources also claim the camera will be launched early tomorrow morning -- though at this point, there's very little left to actually announce.

Via: 43 Rumors

Source: Digicam Info (translated)

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By: Unknown On 11:36 PM

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Panasonic explains how its color splitter sensor works in a vividly detailed video

You'd be forgiven if you weren't entirely on the same page with Panasonic regarding its micro color splitter sensor: it's a big break from the traditional Bayer filter approach on digital cameras, and the deluge of text doesn't do much to simplify the concept. Much to our relief, DigInfo TV has grilled Panasonic in a video that provides a more easily digestible (if still deep) interpretation. As the technology's creator says, it's all about the math. To let in so much light through the splitters requires processing the light in four mixed colors, and that processing requires studying the light's behavior in 3D. Panasonic's new method (Babinet-BPM) makes that feasible by finishing tasks 325 times faster than usual, all while chewing up just a 16th of the memory. The company isn't much closer to having production examples, but it's clarifying that future development will be specialized -- it wants to fine-tune the splitter behavior for everything from smartphone cameras through to security systems. Catch the full outline after the break.

Via: GSM Arena

Source: DigInfo TV

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By: Unknown On 10:39 PM

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Panasonic brings out a Miracast adapter for Japanese TV viewers (video)

It's easy to snag a Miracast-capable device if you're willing to shop for a brand new TV or a set-top box. but it's much tougher if Miracast is the only thing you're looking for. Minimalists will be happy, then, that Panasonic just released a dedicated adapter for the job. Plug the very utilitarian-looking brick into an HDMI jack and you can wirelessly stream HD-grade video from any supporting device on the same WiFi network; Panasonic would naturally prefer that it's the company's new Eluga X smartphone. The adapter is so far only available in Japan for an estimated and rather steep ¥8,980 ($95), although we're hoping that it eventually crosses the Pacific at a price that befits the narrow focus.

Via: Akihabara News

Source: Panasonic (translated)Source

By: Unknown On 2:08 PM

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Panasonic 2013 Smart TVs wield Nuance Dragon TV for voice control, text-to-speech

Panasonic's New Smart TVs Now Listen and Speak with Nuance's Dragon TV

Panasonic's New SMART VIERA HDTVs Voice Interaction Lets People Find TV Content, Search the Web, Get Access to Apps and More with the Power of Dragon

BURLINGTON, Mass. – March 21, 2013 – Nuance Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: NUAN) today announced that Panasonic's new lineup of SMART VIERA® HDTVs announced at CES 2013 feature voice capabilities powered by Nuance's Dragon TV. Now people can simply sit back and speak to find content, search the web, control volume and more – creating a more interactive and intelligent television experience. And with Dragon TV's text-to-speech, television content and options on the screen can be read aloud.

"Smart TVs provide an amazing digital living room experience, but traditional remotes and program guides make it challenging to find and access all that exists for content and entertainment. Voice eliminates those barriers, allowing our consumers to not only control but also interact with Panasonic's Smart TVs," said Hiroyuki Iwaki, group manager of TV product planning, Panasonic.

Dragon TV is Nuance's unique voice and natural language understanding platform designed specifically for smart TV, device and set-top box OEMs and service operators. Dragon TV brings the personal assistant experience to the living room, where consumers are able to speak to their TV and it responds, whether changing the channel, finding favorite movies and content by program name or actor, or staying connected with social media or the web – and much more.

"Consumers need a simple way to navigate and search the overwhelming amount of TV content," said Michael Thompson, executive vice president and general manager, Nuance Mobile. "Dragon TV enables Smart TV manufacturers like Panasonic to deliver a differentiated and compelling experience in one of the most intuitive ways people communicate – through voice."

Availability

Panasonic SMART VIERA TVs featuring Dragon TV will be available worldwide beginning in the Spring of 2013. For more details visit http://www.panasonic.net/avc/viera/.

Dragon TV is a part of Nuance's portfolio of voice, touch and natural language understanding innovations that are defining a new generation of intelligent systems and personal assistant technologies, which also includes Dragon NaturallySpeaking, Dragon Dictate for Mac, Dragon Assistant for Intel-inspired Ultrabooks, Dragon Dictation, Dragon Go!, Dragon Drive!, Dragon ID, Dragon Voicemail to Text, and Swype. With Nuance technology, people experience more humanized interactions with the world's best phones, tablets, computers, cars, TVs, apps and services from leading manufacturers and operators. To learn more visit www.nuancemobilelife.com.

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Panasonic reveals pricing for 2013 home theater systems, March availability

Spring is right around the corner, which means it's time for a new home theater system, or at least that's what Panasonic would have you believe. The electronics giant just unveiled pricing of four of its 2013 home theater systems, some of which were announced at CES 2013. They are the SC-HTB770, the SC-HTB370, the SC-HTB70 and the SC-HTB65, and are priced at $399.99, $299.99, $199.99 and $179.99 respectively. Both the SC-HTB70 and SC-HTB65 are standalone bar models while the decidedly more complicated SC-HTB770 and SC-HTB370 systems come complete with luxe stainless mesh speakers.

All are equipped with wireless or built-in subwoofers and Bluetooth, are compatible with televisions 42 to 65 inches wide and can be wall-mounted or used with TV stands. Strangely, while we were able to find listings for the first three systems on Panasonic's US online store, we could only find the SC-HTB65 over on the UK side. They're all available for pre-order now with a promise of shipping in March, which happens to be, well, this month. Feel free to take a peek at the source links for more details or check out the press release below.

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PANASONIC ANNOUNCES PRICING AND AVAILABILITY OF 2013 HOME THEATER LINEUP WITH NEW, ADVANCED DESIGNS AND MULTI-POSITIONAL SPEAKER LAYOUTS

Secaucus, NJ (March 13, 2013) – Panasonic, today announced pricing and availability for the new 2013 lineup of Home Theater Systems. The new SC-HTB770, SC-HTB370, SC-HTB70 and SC-HTB65 Home Theater System models have been crafted with the consumer's needs in mind. Compatible with various TV sizes, the new lineup offers superior sound quality with stylish and flexible layouts.

The 2013 Panasonic Home Theater Systems will be available in March 2013 with pricing as follows: SC-HTB770 SRP $399.99, SC-HTB370 SRP $299.99, SC-HTB70 SRP $199.99, SC-HTB65 SRP $179.99.

The new 2013 SC-HTB series of Home Theater Systems offer options for the entire home. The latest lineup can be paired with screens ranging from 42-65 inches, allowing consumers to choose the ideal system based on the size of their televisions. Equipped with wireless or built-in* subwoofers and Bluetooth® capabilities, all four models promote an easy, customizable setup and eliminate messy wires in the living space.

The SC-HTB70 and SC-HTB65 models offer a unique, sleek solid bar design for free and flexible layouts. The SC-HTB65 provides users with two-way placement- by rotating the bar 90 degrees, users can opt for a wall-mount setup or a TV-sized stand. Similarly, the SC-HTB70 allows for four-way, multi-angle positional placement enabling a user to set the speaker to the most suitable angle regardless if it is placed on a top or middle shelf. A built-in sensor automatically detects the bar direction and switches the directional characteristics to suit the layout. With an Anti-Vibration Integrated Subwoofer inside the speaker unit, the SC-HTB70 provides high-quality, clear sound playback in each of its four layouts.

Both the SC-HTB770, which will be available in both black and silver, and SC-HTB370 models sport a luxurious, stainless mesh design that compliments the decor of any room in the home. With a versatile and stylish design, users can choose a modern horizontal layout for a wall-mount setup or TV-sized stand, or detach to create two separate freestanding vertical speakers for a classic tabletop style. In addition, while providing flexibility in layout, the SC-HTB770 features a 3.1-channel speaker for vivid sound localization and crisp and clear sound sensation.

Source: Panasonic Shop (1), (2), (3), Panasonic Shop UK

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Fujitsu to merge LSI chip business with Panasonic, cut 5,000 jobs

Intense semiconductor competition has already forced numerous Japanese companies to work together, and now Fujitsu has announced that it'll merge its LSI chip design and R&D divisions with Panasonic. The two companies are looking to the state-run Development Bank of Japan to fund the new venture, which comes in the wake of expected Fujitsu losses of over $1 billion this year -- forcing the company to cut 5,000 jobs and transfer 4,500 to other divisions by March 31st. Fujitsu said it's also looking to transfer a state-of-the-art LSI fabrication line in central Japan to a new foundry venture with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, the world's largest chip maker. That carries on a trend in declining Japanese chip dominance, exemplified by Elpida's bankruptcy and the recent government bailout of Renesas, which itself is a merger of NEC, Hitachi and Mitsubishi's semiconductor operations.

[Image credits: Wikimedia commons]

Via: WSJ

Source: Fujitsu

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Panasonic remembers how to make money, reports $667 million profit last quarter

Just as Sharp offered a slightly more hopeful glimpse at its balance sheet this morning, so too does Panasonic have something worth celebrating: a net profit of 61.4 billion yen ($667 million) in the last three months of 2012. Much of this profit stems from a weaker yen and previous cost-cutting exercises, however, rather than any surge in demand for Panny products -- in fact, underlying sales continued to slip, with cameras, TVs and Blu-ray recorders proving especially hard to shift. Nevertheless, compared to the meager $164 million Panasonic made at the start of 2012, or the ego-crushing $2.1 billion net loss it suffered in the last three months of 2011, no one in that big HQ is likely to be complaining.

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Source: Yahoo (AP), Panasonic (PDF)

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Panasonic executive: panel displays to return to profit in Q4

1 of 2. A man looks at Panasonic Corp's Viera TV screens displayed in an electronics store in Tokyo November 15, 2012.

Credit: Reuters/Toru Hanai

IBARAKI, Japan | Thu Nov 15, 2012 1:29am EST

IBARAKI, Japan (Reuters) - Panasonic Corp's panel display business should return to profit in the three months to March 31, as it decouples from Japan's struggling TV industry with stronger sales of LCD panels to makers of tablets and PCs, the head of the division said in an interview on Thursday.

"We are now making displays for more than 10 models of tablets and PCs," Yoshio Ito said at a former factory in the town of Ibaraki in Osaka, western Japan, once the hub of the company's TV production and which now serves as his headquarters and a research and development center.

Sales of small LCD panels will likely make up around 60 percent of the unit's sales in the October-March second half of the business year compared with 30 percent in the first six months, he said.

As Panasonic draws back from TVs it is looking to boost sales of smaller LCD panels used in tablet computers and mobile phones, a strategy also being pursued by local rival Sharp Corp.

In the three months to September 30, the company's audiovisual division posted a loss of 2.1 billion yen ($26 million), with sales down 7 percent from a year earlier. For the full year it cut its operating profit forecast for the unit to 36 billion yen from 121 billion yen.

Panasonic last month warned it will post a net loss of close to $10 billion in the year ending next March 31 as it writes off tax deferred assets and goodwill related to its mobile phones solar panels and small lithium batteries.

(Reporting by Tim Kelly and Reiji Murai; Editing by Michael Watson)

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By: Dilusha On 7:25 PM

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Slickdeals' best in tech for November 12th: 50-inch Panasonic Viera HDTV and refurbished iPod touch

Looking to save some coin on your tech purchases? Of course you are! In this round-up, we'll run down a list of the freshest frugal buys, hand-picked with the help of the folks at Slickdeals. You'll want to act fast, though, as many of these offerings won't stick around long.

If you're looking for a well-rounded list of tech deals to help cross a few more names off of that holiday shopping list, today's selections could do the trick. A 50-inch Panasonic HDTV gets top billing this time around, but an all-in-one printer and a refurbished 4th-generation iPod touch follow close behind. There's quite a bit to peruse beyond the break, so head down below to take a gander.

Grab one for the living room at Amazon.

Snag one of these for the office at B&H Photo.

These are available from Apple.

This deal is available from NewEgg.

Grab this offer from Adorama.

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Panasonic launches tweaked AG-AF105A MFT pro camcorder with 10-bit HD video

Panasonic Introduces The AG-AF100A Series Micro Four Thirds Camera Recorder Featuring Full HD Progressive Recording And 10 Bit 4:2:2 Camera Live Output Via SDI Terminal
Osaka, Japan (November 5th, 2012) -- Panasonic Corporation will release the new AG-AF100A Series Memory Card Camera Recorder in November 2012.

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