World's first 3D consumer camcorder unveiled by Panasonic

The case for 3D just got stronger with Panasonic announcing the release of the world's first 3D consumer camera for the AVCHD standard. Panasonic has positioned itself at the forefront of 3D camcorder technology and this latest news is significant because previously available professional 3D models are far more expensive, and as a result have not made it into the hands of the general public. The company's new HDC-SDT750 camcorder is likely to be the first of many 3D cameras to reach home movie makers.

Using a conversion lens that comes with the camcorder, 3D images can be recorded, ready for playback on your 3D display. It should be noted that the movies can be viewed on screens from competing companies such as Sony or Samsung as well, so you're not locked in to the Panasonic brand.

And while some other companies like Fujifilm and Aiptek are experimenting with 3D that does not require glasses, this camera will need 3D glasses for viewing.

The most striking thing about Panasonic's new camcorder is the size. It's absolutely tiny. Remove the 3D conversion lens and it's even more so. It certainly looks like a comfortable camera to operate, whether you're in 3D or regular mode.

Other specs of the SDT750 include:

• Full HD 3D video
• High-sensitivity 3MOS System
• Can record in 1080/60p for NTSC or 1080/50p for PAL
• HYBRID O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization)
• 7,590,000 pixels (2,530,000 pixels x 3)
• Improved noise reduction technology
• Improved recording of dimly lit images

Surprisingly this was Panasonic's second 3D-related announcement of the day. The company released yet another world's first when announcing a 3D interchangeable twin lens compatible with the Lumix G Micro System.

Consumers who shelled out for expensive 3D TVs (perhaps from Panasonic as well) will now have more content to watch if they opt to buy this camcorder too. The problem is, they just need to make it themselves. There's still a bit of a catch 22 with 3D displays, as no one is producing content until consumers have the hardware to view it. But early adopters of 3D TVs are, for now, stuck with little to watch. And while some providers such as YouTube have experimented with 3D video and broadcasters like Sky are moving into the space, 3D content is still not very plentiful.

The SDT750 will go on sale in Japan on August 20th with a price tag of around 170,000 yen (or just under $2000).

Via: Panasonic.