We checked out some of OWC’s newest products at CES 2012, including a UL listed in-wall charging unit that sports dual USB ports with auto-shutoff, as well as 10-finger capacitive touch gloves for use on iPads and other multi-touch displays.

The Canon XA10 is the new low-end model in Canon’s pro camcorder lineup.  Featuring full 1920 x 1080 HD video capture, along with a carry handle and dual phantom-power XLR inputs, the XA10 is a force to be reckoned with.  I had the opportunity to spend a few minutes with the new camcorder at CES 2011.  Below you will find my initial impressions of the new HD camcorder.

The XA10 is essentially the pro version of the new Canon VIXIA HF G10, which is already an impressive camcorder.  The addition of the carry handle, XLR inputs and manual audio controls offer some powerful features that is hard to find in a package this small.

The XA10 is anchored by a new 1/3-inch CMOS sensor that is a true 1920 x 1080 resolution, which should help prevent the noise that has crept into prior sensors which also allowed 7MP+ still image capture.  Nope.  This is essentially a 2MP image sensor – all that a camcorder really needs.

It is a single chip design and is powered by DIGIC DV III image processor.  The XA10 records AVCHD video up to 24Mbps and 4:2:0 color space.  The XA10 can capture HD video in a variety of frame rates, including 60i, as well as 30p and 24p variants of 60i, and true 24p (23.98fps).

The lens is a Canon 10x Zoom HD lens with a 35mm equivalent range of 30.4-304mm zoom.  It features an 8-blade iris, which should provide smoother bokeh and minimize diffraction.

The built-in mic is a stereo mic with a number of options, including the ability to zoom the directionality with the optical zoom.  Additionally, the audio processing allows the XA10 to activate a built-in low pass, or place particular emphasis on lows, mids or highs.  These features can be combined through the menu for effective control over the camera’s built-in audio pickup.

As noted above, the XLR inputs offer phantom power and the carry handle gives you a shotgun mic holder and a standard cold shoe for a light or other accessories.  Opposite the XLR inputs on the handle are manual audio level controls.  And on the top of the camera is a zoom and record start/stop controls.  On front of the carry handle is an infrared light and a tally lamp.  The infrared light is a boon for those wishing to record in total darkness, as the XA10 has the option to remove the infrared filter from the optical path.  In total darkness, the infrared emitter on the carry handle is invisible to the human eye, yet it provides enough light to capture video where other cameras would only show a black screen.

The manual lens ring seems to work quite well and is smooth in operation.  Additionally, for those looking at more prosumer-oriented cameras, you will be happy to know that the new VIXIA G10, M40, M41 and M400 also sport the manual lens ring.

Full control over exposure is accessible via a custom key and dial feature.  In manual mode, you can use the dial to adjust the iris, gain or shutter.  It’s not quite as accessible as higher-end models, but the control is there.  Other pro features include Focus Assist, which provides a 2x magnification for dialing in critical focus, as well as an option for 70% or 100% zebras to aid in dialing in highlights.  Bars and tone are also available in the menu systems with -12dB, -18dB or -20dB tones available.

The XA10 offers a 64GB internal flash drive (another step up from the G10′s 32GB internal storage) and dual SDXC card slots.  Add in a pair of SDXC cards and you have the ability to walk around with 192GB of storage in your camera. Canon says you need a Class 4 or higher SDHC or SDXC card to capture 24Mbps or 17Mbps footage (most cards nowadays meet this Class rating anyway – just don’t cheap out on some bargain basement SD card).  SanDisk’s Ultra 64GB card is a viable option.

64GB will get you near 6 hours of recording time at the highest setting of 24Mbps.  So the built-in storage and a couple of SD cards gets you 18 hours of HD footage at 24Mbps – not too shabby considering the footprint your camera and storage take up.

In short, the Canon XA10 looks to be a real winner.  There is a lot of excitement and anticipation around this camera.  While it’s not quite as “pro” as other camcorders in Canon’s lineup, it still impresses with its size, price and spec sheet.  Hopefully, I will get a chance to take a closer look at the Canon XA10 once in becomes available.

The Canon XA10 is available from Tech Tilt’s trusted retail affiliates at the following links:

• Canon XA10 at Amazon.com
• Canon XA10 at B&H Photo

By making your gear purchases through these links, you are helping Tech Tilt to continue bring quality gear tests, news and reviews. Thanks for your continued support.

The Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 are new 3MOS Full HD camcorders introduced at CES 2011.  The HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 set themselves part from the 2011 Panasonic 1MOS Full HD camcorders by making use of three 1/4.1″ image sensors, which split the captured light into the red, green and blue colors – with each being processed by its own sensor.

Each camera captures 1920 x 1080 resolution video at 60p, along with a digital cinema mode for 24p capture.  All three new models are compatible with Panasonic’s 3D conversion lens for 3D video capture in-camera.  Additionally, the HS900 and TM900 models offer a manual control ring, which allows multiple manual control functions, including focusing, zoom, white balance, shutter speed and iris.

All camcorders feature SDXC memory card storage.  The TM900 adds 32GB internal flash memory, while the HS900 offers a 220GB hard drive.

More details in the press release below.

Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 Press Release

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 5, 2011) – Panasonic today introduced three new Full-High Definition (HD) 3MOS camcorders to its 2011 line, the HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800. The new full-HD camcorders feature 1920 x 1080 resolution with 1080/60p recording to create crisp, detailed videos, and can also shoot 3D videos when used with Panasonic’s optional 3D Conversion Lens (VW-CLT1). Incorporating Panasonic’s 3MOS system – an advanced technology used in professional-level equipment– the new camcorders record bright, low-noise videos, even in low lighting. Other top-of-the-line features include a manual ring (TM900/HS900 only) for increased creativity, a 20x zoom and an intuitive 3.5” touch-screen LCD on the TM900 and HS900.

“We expect that the new Full-HD 3MOS camcorders will be our best yet, with image quality that rivals professional video equipment and further advancements on last year’s award-winning predecessors,” said Chris Rice, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The full-HD camcorders not only have that added wow-factor – with 3D video shooting capability – but consumers can also capture amazing 2D videos, easily with our larger, more intuitive touch-screen LCDs.”

With the 3D conversion lens, users can take video recording to the next level and record 3D images with Panasonic’s new line of 3MOS camcorders. Once recorded, consumers can play back the 3D images or video on a VIERA 3DTV*2, a compatible 3D TV*3, or through an AVCHD-compatible player/recorder, such as Panasonic’s Blu-ray DiscTM player*4.

The HDC-TM900 and HDC-HS900 feature 3.5” LCDs, while the HDC-SD800 features a 3.0” LCD. Not only do the models include wide screens, they are now easier to use with advanced touch operation that allows for extremely smooth shooting and playback, with new touch operation functions including:

· Touch Zoom – Swiftly zoom in or out by finger movement.

· Touch Shutter – Automatically focus and take a photo by touching the subject*5 on the screen.

All three models can record to SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Cards, while the HDC-TM900 also has 32GB*6 of internal memory and the HDC-HS900 has a 220GB hard disk drive for additional memory storage.

At the heart of Panasonic’s advanced processing system is the high-sensitivity 3MOS sensor with 7.59 million effective motion image pixels (2.53 megapixels x 3). The 3MOS sensor separates light received through the lens into the three primary colors – red, green and blue – processing each independently for professional-like color quality, detail and gradation.

The Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 camcorders also feature the large diameter (46mm) F1.5 Leica Dicomar Lens which produces brighter images and helps suppress ghosts and flare, while also minimizing distortion and degradation of contrast and resolution. In addition, its 35mm wide-angle1 capability makes it ideal for many different shooting situations, such as self-portraits and group photos indoors, and landscape shots outdoors.

The new models also feature the Crystal Engine PRO, which instantly processes the large amount of data that goes into full-HD quality for extremely clear, crisp motion images. The improved Crystal Engine PRO increases sensitivity and reduces noise by 45 percent compared to Panasonic’s conventional models, resulting in brighter images with minimal noise when shooting under low-light conditions. Intelligent Resolution technology ensures sharp, beautifully colored motion images, while Intelligent Zoom enables high-powered 20x zooming, correcting the image degradation that occurs in ordinary digital zooming.

Other features of the HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 include:

· HYBRID OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) – Helps correct blurring due to hand and arm shake by detecting the vertical or horizontal wrist movements, but also the subtle blurring that occurs when the subject is moving.

· iA (Intelligent Auto) with Face Recognition – Automatically selects the most suitable shooting mode at the press of a button, including Face Recognition, which finds the faces of registered people (up to six faces can be registered) and optimizes the focus and exposure and tracks the subject as it moves anywhere within the LCD frame.

· Eco-Mode*7 –Automatically turns off the power when the camcorder is not operated for five minutes, reducing wasteful energy use and saving battery power.

· 5.1-Channel Surround Sound System (HDC-TM900/HDC-HS900) – Uses five microphones so when sounds recorded from front, right, left and back are played on a 5.1-channel home theater system, viewers are surrounded by crisp, detailed sound.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 camcorders will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. All models will be available in black.

Panasonic announced several new HD 1MOS camcorders at CES 2011.  All the new models are SDXC compatible, and several feature internal flash or hard disk memory for more storage options.  Check out the full rundown on all the new models below.

HDC-SD40: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 16.8x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-TM40: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 16.8x optical zoom, 16GB internal memory, 2.7-inch LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-HS80: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 34x optical zoom, 120GB internal HDD, 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-TM80: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 34x optical zoom, 16GB internal memory, 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-SD80: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 34x optical zoom, 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-TM90: 1/4.1″ MOS sensor, 1080/60p at 28Mbps, 21x optical zoom, 16GB internal memory, 3-inch touchscreen LCD, compatible with Panasonic 3D conversion lens – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-SD90: 1/4.1″ MOS sensor, 1080/60p at 28Mbps, 21x optical zoom, 3-inch touchscreen LCD, compatible with Panasonic 3D conversion lens – Check availability on Amazon.

See all the product shots and press release below.

Panasonic Press Release

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 5, 2011) – Panasonic today announced a full roster of Full-High Definition (HD) camcorders to its 2011 line. The seven new easy-to-use camcorders, HDC-SD40, HDC-TM40, HDC-HS80, HDC-TM80, HDC-SD80, HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90, all have a 1MOS sensor with 1920 x 1080 resolution feature wide-angle lenses. The Panasonic HDC-SD90 and HDC-TM90 are capable of shooting full-HD video with 1080/60p recording and can even record 3D video with the optional Panasonic 3D Conversion lens (VW-CLT1).

“Panasonic’s new line of HD camcorders offers something for everyone, from the ultra-lightweight and affordable SD40 and TM40, to the wide-angle lens and telephoto zoom of the HS80 and TM80, all the way up to the to the 3D recording capabilities of the TM90 and SD90,” said Chris Rice, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “These seven HD camcorders shoot exceptionally-well in low-light and, with Panasonic’s image stabilization, allow even novice shooters to capture stunning video.”

Leading off the line of 1MOS camcorders are the Panasonic HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90, featuring a compact body and the ability to record video in 3D with the addition of Panasonic’s 3D Conversion Lens. Once recorded, consumers can play back the 3D images or video on a VIERA® 3DTV*¹, a compatible 3D TV*², or through an AVCHD-compatible player/recorder, such as Panasonic’s Blu-ray Disc^TM player*³. While 3D video recording is possible, the Panasonic HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90 also record crisp true-to-life video in full-HD 2D video. The camcorders feature a 28mm*⁴ wide-angle lens with versatility to record indoors or in tight spaces, while at the same time capturing stunning images of wide landscapes or large groups into the frame.

For extra shooting power, the Panasonic HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90 feature ultra-telephoto 40x Intelligent Zoom which uses Panasonic’s Crystal Engine PRO, a high-resolution processor that helps to record extremely clear, crisp videos even in low-lighting.  Also powered by the Crystal Engine Pro, the HDC-TM80 and HDC-HS80 offer exceptional zooming power with ultra-telephoto 42x Intelligent Zoom. The new models include a 33.7mm*⁵ wide-angle lens for versatile shooting at a variety of distances.

For consumers wanting a lightweight and affordable Full-HD camcorder, Panasonic introduces the ultra-compact HDC-TM40 and HDC-SD40. The TM40 and SD40 are the Panasonic’s lightest full-HD camcorders, weighing approximately 0.39lb, making them stylish and easy to carry around for any recording moment. The camcorders are also extremely low-power consuming Full-HD camcorders, capable of continuous recording up to 135 minutes without needing to charge the battery.

All seven models can record to SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Cards, while the HDC-TM90 and HDC-TM80 and HDC-TM50 also have 16GB*⁶ of internal memory and the HDC-HS80 has a 120GB hard disk drive for additional memory storage.

The Panasonic HDC-TM90, HDC-SD90, HDC-TM80, HDC-SD80 and HDC-HS80 also feature advanced touch-screen operation with new touch-operation functions that allows for extremely smooth shooting and playback, including:

• Touch Zoom – Swiftly zoom in or out with the touch or swipe of the finger.
• Touch Shutter – Focus and take a digital photo by touching the subject on the screen*⁷.

Other features of the Panasonic HDC-TM90, HDC-SD90, HDC-TM80, HDC-SD80 and HDC-HS80 include:

• New HYBRID OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) – Helps reduce blur due to arm and hand shake with a lens in the optical system and a sensor in the electrical system. Detects blurring caused not only by vertical or horizontal wrist movements, but also the subtle blurring that occurs when the entire arm moves vertically or horizontally. Also achieves powerful correction during high-powered zooming, even on the move.
• iA (Intelligent Auto) with Face Recognition – Selects the most suitable shooting mode at the press of a button, including Face Recognition, which finds the faces of registered people (up to six faces) and optimizes the focus and exposure for them. The camcorder continues to track this subject as the person moves anywhere within the frame.
• Eco-Mode*⁸ – Automatically turns off the power when the camcorder is not operated for five minutes, reducing wasteful energy use and saving battery power.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic HDC-TM90, HDC-SD90, HDC-TM80, HDC-HS80, HDC-TM40 and HDC-SD40 High Definition 1MOS camcorders will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. All models will be available in black, while the HDC-TM80 and HDC-SD80 will also be available in red and silver.

CES is always packed full of a lot of crap and a lot of cool stuff.  There’s always a couple of things that stick out on both ends of the spectrum.

Atop the “cool” category this year was Clixon’s VCC-400 Virtual Console Connection adapter.  In short, VCC-400 works by plugging in a USB 2.0 adapter into one computer, then connecting a USB cable to the adapter on one end, and to another computer on the other end.  Then, the mouse and keyboard from either computer can control the other.

It also works between Mac and PC.  You can use the PC’s keyboard and mouse to control the Mac.  When you move the mouse it will move between the two computer screens just like you do between two monitors on a single computer.

Better yet, you can drag and drop, or copy and paste, between computers.  The drag and drop feature doesn’t work cross-platform (at least the demo didn’t); however, you can still copy and paste files and other clipboard contents between PC and Mac computers.

If ever the term “magic” were warranted to describe a product, this is it.

VCC supports 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows, Mac OS X 10.4-10.6 and Linux.  The Clixon rep I spoke with said the software would probably retail for about $70.  The downside?  Clixon doesn’t have a US distributor for the device just yet.

As someone who uses multiple Macs and PCs on a daily basis (I have 2 keyboards and mice on my desktop), I would shell out $70 in a heartbeat for this product.  So, I’m keeping my fingers crossed that a US distributor gets on board with Clixon sooner rather than later.

Sony announced its refreshed lineup of Bloggie HD camcorders at CES 2011.  All models capture 1920 x 1080 full HD video, while the flagship Bloggie FS3 captures 3D video, which you can view on the FS3′s 2.4-inch LCD in 3D without the need for glasses.  The FS3 should be available in April at an initial retail price of $250.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

The Bloggie Du0 FS2 features a 2.7-inch LCD on the back and a 2-inch LCD on the front to aid with recording yourself on the camera. The Bloggie Duo should be available in March at an initial retail price of $170.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

The FS1 is the base level Bloggie model with a 2.7-inch LCD on the rear.  The Bloggie FS1 should be available in March at an initial retail price of $150.  Check availability on Amazon.com.

More details in the press release below.

Sony Bloggie HD Press Release

LAS VEGAS (CES BOOTH #14200), Jan. 5, 2011 – Continuing to innovate in the pocket video camera space, Sony today revealed new Bloggie® HD camera models that focus on affordability and fashion-forward style. Sony’s Bloggie HD cameras include unique features that break through the cluttered category while still offering simple high quality MP4 video and still photo shooting, as well as easy web sharing capabilities.

The lineup, anchored by the recently launched Bloggie Touch™ model, now includes 3D technology, dual screen capabilities and simple operation.  With the Bloggie, Bloggie Duo and Bloggie 3D models, you can capture “had to be there” moments in full high definition (1920×1080) MP4 video and 5-megapixel still photos, but in a whole new way anytime, anyplace.

“As the popularity of pocket cameras grow, we not only wanted to provide simple, compact video and photo solutions, we wanted to make these devices fun and different while still delivering a high quality product,” said Andy Bubala, director of the camcorder business at Sony Electronics. “With Sony paving the way for 3D entertainment, that technology was the perfect addition to the Bloggie family and robust offering of 3D solutions.”

Bloggie Roster

Sony’s Bloggie brand welcomes three models that each bring distinct value to the category.  The world’s first HD 3D pocket camera*, the Bloggie 3D camera (MHS-FS3) is an innovative model with two lenses, two image sensors, stereo microphone and built-in LED light to capture incredible 3D or 2D video and photos.  This content can be played back in 3D without glasses on the camera’s 2.4-inch LCD screen or utilizing 3D glasses on any 3D capable HDTV like Sony’s new BRAVIA® KDL-HX820 HDTV also announced today.

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 2.0-inch on the front under the lens – for fun 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 four fashionable colors — violet, green, pink, and white.

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 wide LCD screen, and comes in black and white.

Easy as 1, 2, 3

All of the Sony® Bloggie HD cameras are slim and stylish, with simple hard key operation, and combine hardware, software and seamless integration with internet social network services for easy, intuitive shooting and sharing.  Across the line, you can find an abundance of features including:

• Sensitive Exmor^™ CMOS sensor to achieve high resolution video and crisply-detailed still photos with less grain, even in challenging lighting conditions
• Free style shooting & playback to automatically adjust GUI for vertical or horizontal shooting and viewing
• Dual Record to enable photo capture while shooting video
• Auto Focus / Auto Macro to allow auto focus capabilities and Auto Macro to focus sharply on objects as close as four inches away

• 360 Video bundled kit option lets consumers capture everything around them and playback incredible 360-degree footage a quarter at a time on the camera’s LCD
• Compatible with PC and Mac® computers, a “Share it Later” function tags the clips and pictures you want to post for easy upload the next time you’re online

The Bloggie models also have SteadyShot® image stabilization for smoother footage, Face Detection technology to enhance faces by automatically correcting focus and exposure, a built-in USB arm for easy charging and uploading to a computer, internal memory, built-in rechargeable battery, embedded Bloggie software, and HDMI^™ output to enjoy content on your HDTV (cable sold separately).

Simple Public and Private Online Sharing

With the included Bloggie software for Mac and Windows, it’s never been easier to share videos and photos online.  Share privately with friends and family using Personal Space™ by Sony or become the next Internet sensation with integrated support for Facebook^®, YouTube^™, Flickr^®, and Picasa^™ Web Albums.  With Personal Space Sharing Groups, keeping friends and family updated with a constant stream of your latest photos is easy.  There’s no need to re-type long lists of recipients’ email addresses or deal with slow, bulky email attachments every time you want to share.  Add photos or videos to a Sharing Group using the “Share it Later” feature or Bloggie software, and your loved ones are just a click away from enjoying your latest memories with no registration necessary.

You and those in your Sharing Groups can also view photos and videos away from the computer with apps for iPhone® or Android™.  Additionally, Sony BRAVIA HDTV and DASH Personal Space support will be added later this year, providing even more viewing options.

The Bloggie (MHS-FS1) and Bloggie Duo (MHS-FS2) cameras, both with 4GB of internal memory, will be available in March for about $150 and $170, respectively.  The Bloggie 3D camera (MHS-FS3) with 8GB of internal memory will be available in April for about $250.  The Bloggie cameras and their accessories will be sold at Sony Style® retail stores, online at www.sonystyle.com/bloggie and through authorized dealers nationwide.

The HP PhotoSmart eStation C510a All-in-One printer comes packaged with a 7-inch Android tablet that gives you wireless control of your printer, as well as the ability to browse the web, check email and run other apps – all without being connected to a PC.

Currently, the Zeen tablet is running on Android 2.1; however, according to an HP rep on hand at CES 2011, there’s a push update to Android 2.2 coming soon.  The Zeen looks and feels a lot like other 7″ tablets out there.  Make no mistake though, the Zeen is no iPad.  The interface is typical Android, but nowhere near as fast as other implementations.

The printer itself prints up to 32 ppm and offers a 9200 x 2400 dpi for color photos.  Bot the tablet and printer connect via Wi-Fi, and the printer offers your typical USB interface as well.

The printer and tablet combo seem to be a pretty good fit – and as a printer interface, it is a pretty slick controller.  While the printer and tablet together retail for $399, current discounts put them around $330.  This could be a good bargain for someone looking for a new home printer and would like some casual tablet use to go along with it.

Samsung unveiled their new line of LED TVs at CES 2011.  In all there are more than 40 new televisions ranging from 19 inches to 65 inches and Samsung preview a monster 75 inch LED TV.  The new lineup brings of course HD and not only 2D, but several are 3D capable and from what I was earlier on Wednesday, I have to say that I am impressed.  Something I can’t say about some of Samsung’s earlier sets.

Streaming content is on the rise and in fact will be among the biggest trends this year and Samsung is on the bandwagon.  Many of the new TV’s are web connected with integrated apps.

The first thing that jumped at me was the ultra-thin bezel.  Samsung says they were able to make a 80% reduction in the bezel mass to make the edging nearly invisible.

The D8000 series TV comes with Samsungs new active shutter 3D glasses.  For more images and the press release hit the jump.

Press Release

2011 International CES

LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–At the International Consumer Electronics Show, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., today unveiled new LED TV series that redefine the home entertainment experience and add a touch of refined elegance, simplicity and luxury to any home. The new smart TVs address consumers’ growing need for greater choice and control over how and when they access content.

“As we enter a new era of immersive and inclusive entertainment, Samsung has redefined the visual elements that will make our TVs the centerpiece of any room”

Samsung will be augmenting its extensive product lines by previewing at CES more than 40 new models with screen sizes from 19-inches to 65-inches. The new TVs offer dramatically enhanced picture quality in 2D, 3D, HD and streaming content, as well as richer connected entertainment options delivered through one of the most comprehensive offering of apps and connected devices.

Samsung’s 2011 line-up combines elegant styling with a wide range of higher-end features previously exclusive to premium sets, including 3D capabilities and improved, advanced smart TV features so that people get the most out of their entertainment experience. Select models will offer Samsung’s new Smart Hub, which includes:

• Search All, which makes it easier to search for desired content on your TV and other DLNA-certified connected media storage devices, networked PC and mobile devices, and Internet and video-on-demand services.
• Your Video, which delivers recommendations based on a user’s viewing history.
• Web Browser, which offers full web browsing right from your TV.
• Samsung Apps, the world’s first HDTV-based application store, which offers a range of paid and free apps that help people connect to their various passions – whether in sports, entertainment, information, games or social networking.

Samsung will also expand the number of 3D TV models available in 2011 so more people can enjoy 3D home entertainment at affordable prices. Consumers will be able to choose from a wide range of TVs to suit any home and lifestyle needs. Several TVs sport new innovative, ultra-thin TV bezels that give consumers a larger viewing screen without increasing the size of the TV. The new bezels are the result of extensive design research, Samsung’s proprietary new panel technology and innovative signal processing technology.

As the pioneer in 3D home entertainment, Samsung realized that consumers are increasingly choosing larger TV screens to fully experience immersive 3D entertainment, and today also previewed a 75-inch LED TV.

The latest TV lineup will be on display at Samsung’s booth #12006 in the Central Hall at the International Consumer Electronics Show, which will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), January 6-9, 2011. The LED D8000 series TV, a CES 2011 Innovations Design and Engineering Award winner, will also be on display in the Grand Lobby at the LVCC.

“As we enter a new era of immersive and inclusive entertainment, Samsung has redefined the visual elements that will make our TVs the centerpiece of any room,” said Sangchul Lee, Senior Vice President, Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “People want to stay connected to the relationships and information that are important to them, and our latest line-up reflects a vision where smarter technology virtually and physically connects users through shared moments in the comfort of their homes.”

Deep Focus on Immersive and Smart Entertainment Supported by Breakthrough Engineering and Design

As the No. 1 brand for TVs in the US and globally, Samsung led the industry in 2010 with the launch of the world’s first 3D TV and today holds over 70 percent of the market share in the US. As 3D content becomes more prevalent, the company expects more consumers to opt for 3D features in their TVs. To this end, it aims to reduce the cost of acquiring a 3D entertainment system – 3D TV, Blu-ray player, 3D glasses and content – in 2011 by more than two-thirds and making 3D features available in a wider range of models.

Samsung also successfully reduced the bezel size by up to 80 percent – an engineering feat – so that the thin bezel blends in easily with the environment, almost becoming invisible to the viewer, and becomes even less of a distraction when watching 3D.

The reduction in bezel size means consumers can enjoy a larger viewing screen and wider viewing angle without having to increase the physical size of their TVs, and makes using social applications like Skype and YouTube, browsing the Web, sharing content and playing games that much more inclusive.

Samsung expects 2011 to be a watershed year for connected TV. Almost all of Samsung’s new 40-inch and above 2011 TVs will offer smart TV features, making it even easier for viewers to engage their passions by accessing Web-delivered content on their big digital screens.

The Ultimate Entertainment Showpiece with Bespoke Design Features and True-to-Life Picture Quality

The first thing you notice about the LED D8000 series is its barely visible 0.2” brushed metal bezel, a fine line that subtly frames the rich content on the screen and enhances the TV’s light form factor. The D8000 Series continues the minimalist style of the award-winning C8000 Series and uses an improved Quad Stand to ensure ultimate harmony between the TV and its environment.

With a 240Hz refresh rate, 2 millisecond motion picture response time (MPRT) and improved LED backlight scanning, this CES Innovation Award honoree offers true-to-life 2D, 3D and HD images with outstanding clarity. In addition to the Ultra Clear Panel, the TV is the first to offer Micro Dimming Plus technologies to provide the richest, most lifelike pictures with deep blacks and pure whites.

The D8000 Series comes with Samsung’s new 3D glasses and Samsung’s innovative Touch Control that can also stream TV programs to its built-in 3” LCD screen, almost like a second TV, even while a Blu-ray disc is being played on the TV.

The D8000 has a built-in Wi-Fi connection and many convenient ways to manage and display content through Samsung’s Smart Hub portal. The set can connect to other devices using DLNA or Samsung’s patented One Foot Connection technology.

Setting Up Full 3D Becomes a Breeze With the World’s First Auto 3D Format Setup Function

The Samsung LED D7000 Series represents a successful balance of high technology with minimalist design aesthetics. The stunningly thin 0.2” black bezel is framed by a jewel-like transparent bezel that uses Samsung’s award-winning Touch of Color™ (ToC™) dual-injection mold technology to reflect a hint of red along the crystal bezel’s edge. The Quad Stand is slimmer than the one introduced in 2010, yet its lower height manages to keep the TV stable and sturdy while maintaining an air of elegance.

Watching 3D content has never been easier – with the Auto 3D Format Setup, the TV automatically detects the encoding format (i.e. side-by-side and top-bottom) when playing 3D content and viewers can now sit back and let their smart TV configure the content for the best viewing experience.

The LED D7000 also incorporates improved backlight scanning technology and Auto Motion Plus, Samsung’s proprietary frame interpolation algorithm, to create sharp 2D and 3D pictures and smooth frame transitions without blurring, even for video moving at top speeds; 3D picture quality is also improved as a result of Samsung’s new 3D Peak Algorithm.

With Smart Hub, the LED D7000 Series is the ideal media center, complementing consumers’ ever connected and mobile lifestyles.

The Ideal Value Model TV for an Immersive 3D Experience

For the consumer looking to embrace 3D entertainment without breaking the bank, the Samsung LED D6400 Series TV is the ideal 120Hz 3D LED TV, offering stunningly clear 3D pictures with the world’s best panel technology and proprietary image-improving techniques. Samsung’s unique double-rate frame transition technology – the world’s fastest – also reduces the picture frame transition time by 50 percent to enhance the viewing quality of 3D content.

The LED D6400 also offers Samsung’s narrow bezel design to deliver a more immersive 3D viewing experience. The prism-like ToC™ thin bezel has a hint of red that is barely visible from the front, but intensifies as the viewer moves to the side to minimize distractions while watching 3D, 2D, HD or streaming content.

Samsung’s 3D Peak Algorithm reduces average power consumption by about 15 percent while increasing peak brightness by 20 percent. Its unique Motion Adaptive Dimming algorithm also reduces power consumption up to 20 percent by controlling LED brightness, according to motion vectors in the picture. In addition, LED 6400 was developed using Samsung’s eco-friendly design technologies and seeks to minimize its environmental footprint during its life-cycle.

CES-specific information may be found at www.samsungces2011.com. For more information about Samsung, including press releases, video content and product images, please visit http://www.samsungusanews.com/

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. Samsung is also the HDTV market leader in the U.S. Please visit http://www.samsung.com for more information.

Sony was pimping the new Green Hornet 3D movie very hard tonight at its CES 2011 press conference.  In fact, Sony brought out the big guns with the Black Beauty, which carried Seth Rogen and Jason Chou onto the press conference stage.

Check out the surprise reveal in the video below.

Today at CES, Toshiba has dropped into the tablet race with an Android Powered machine.  Tablet as Toshiba is calling it, is a 10.1 inch device with a 16:10 aspect ratio display.  Powered by the dual-core NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor with integrated NVIDIA graphics, Tablet should deliver solid performance in web browsing, watching HD movies and general multitasking.

Tablet features front and rear facing cameras, a built-in GPS and compass and an array of ports including a full-size HDMI, full-size USB, mini USB and a full-size SD card slot.  Bluetooth and 802.11n WiFi will be on board for keeping connected.

The price is not mentioned, but will hit the street in the first half of 2011.  Hit the jump for the press release.

Press Release

LAS VEGAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Toshiba’s Digital Products Division (DPD), a division of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., today previewed its first Android-powered tablet for the U.S. market. Featuring a 10.1-inch diagonal widescreen HD display, the tablet is well-equipped with stand-out performance and features, plus smart technologies that adapt to the way you want to use it. The Toshiba tablet is slated to ship in the first half of 2011 with the Android Honeycomb operating system, the next version of Android designed for tablet devices.

“This new device reflects Toshiba’s long expertise in merging intuitive, easy-to-use visual and mobility-focused hardware with uncommonly smart technologies and will deliver on the promise of the category.”

“The time is right to deliver a new generation of tablets that go beyond expectations, giving users the freedom to experience the full web and app ecosystem with open designs that provide unprecedented connectivity and personalization,” said Jeff Barney, vice president and general manager, Toshiba America Information Systems, Digital Products Division. “This new device reflects Toshiba’s long expertise in merging intuitive, easy-to-use visual and mobility-focused hardware with uncommonly smart technologies and will deliver on the promise of the category.”

Next-Gen Tablet Design with Smart Features

The Toshiba tablet’s high-resolution 10.1-inch diagonal widescreen multi-touch display is ideal for viewing full websites and both landscape and portrait mode. The display’s high definition 1280×800 resolution and 16:10 aspect ratio also creates a cinematic experience for movie viewing and gaming. Coupled with support for Adobe® Flash®-enabled content, the tablet provides a complete web and entertainment experience.

The Toshiba Adaptive Display technology ensures that users get the best visual experience, automatically adjusting the display’s brightness and color to the lighting environment. The tablet also features a built-in motion sensor that enables full screen rotation and includes a rotation-lock switch to set the display in position when the user chooses. In addition, the tablet includes an on-screen keyboard with Haptic feedback for more accurate typing.

The stylish design features Toshiba’s EasyGrip finish and will be available in multiple colors. This unique slip-resistant rubberized surface is more comfortable to the touch and easy to hold. Unlike the current generation of devices, the Toshiba tablet features an open design, giving users greater flexibility for customization with user-replaceable EasyGrip back covers and a replaceable prismatic lithium ion battery.

Brilliant HD Entertainment

Powered by the world’s most advanced mobile processor – the dual-core NVIDIA® Tegra™ 2 with integrated NVIDIA graphics – users will be able browse the web at unprecedented speed, experience amazing graphics in the latest games and multimedia and benefit from accelerated multi-tasking. The NVIDIA Tegra 2 processor also delivers smooth, full frame-rate 1080p HD video playback.

Reflecting Toshiba’s long experience in incorporating smart technologies into intuitive hardware designs, the tablet includes Toshiba Resolution+™ video enhancement technology that improves color, contrast and sharpness, giving standard definition video a more high definition look as well as Toshiba sound enhancement technology to boost the audio experience adding more robust sound capabilities to the device’s stereo speakers.

Easy Media Sharing, Capture and Connectivity

The tablet features a two megapixel front-facing camera and five megapixel rear-facing camera for taking photos, videos and video chat, and includes integrated GPS and compass so users can take advantage of location-based services.

The tablet will also feature a full host of connectivity options and ports that make it easy to integrate the device into everyday digital life, including a full-size HDMI® port to easily share photos and video on an HDTV, a full-size USB and a mini USB 2.0 port for connecting external devices. A full-size SD Card slot provides options for additional storage and transferring files. The device will also be equipped with Bluetooth® for easy device connectivity and fast 802.11n Wi-Fi® support for easily connecting to the web from home, the office or Wi-Fi hotspots. Optional docking stations will allow users to connect and recharge the device at a desk or at home and provide additional connectivity ports.

Availability

The Toshiba tablet will be available in the first half of 2011 through major retailers, e-tailers and direct from Toshiba at ToshibaDirect.com as well as select Toshiba Preferred Partner Program resellers.

Downloadable image gallery available at: http://bit.ly/2011Q1-Tablet

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.

TAIS is an independent operating company owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation. Toshiba Corporation is a world leader and innovator in high technology, a diversified manufacturer and marketer of advanced electronic and electrical products. These products span from information & communications systems; digital consumer products; electronic devices and components; as well as power systems including nuclear energy; industrial and social infrastructure systems; and home appliances. Toshiba was founded in 1875, and today operates a global network of more than 730 companies, with 204,000 employees worldwide and annual sales surpassing $75 billion (6.2 Trillion Yen). For more information on Toshiba visit www.toshiba.com.

© 2011 Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc. All product, service and company names are trademarks, registered trademarks or service marks of their respective owners. Information including without limitation product prices, specifications, availability, content of services, and contact information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.