Canon Launches World's Smallest HDV Camcorder

Pocket-Sized & Packed With High Tech Features 

Until now, the concept of putting true 1080 HD (high definition) video recording capability in your pocket was purely science fiction. Get ready for the future. Canon's newest HV10 HDV camcorder delivers high definition video in a stylish package, loaded with new features and affordable, at an estimated selling price of $1,299

A compilation of Canon breakthrough technologies, the HV10 HDV camcorder combines Canon's world-class HD optics, with Super Range Optical Image Stabilization, DIGIC DV II image processor, and a Canon designed and manufactured Full HD resolution (1920x1080 video) CMOS sensor, similar to those found in Canon's full line of Digital SLR cameras. Additionally, new "Instant AF" auto-focus technology, and the ability to take 3.1 megapixel photos, makes this camera a powerful device that fits comfortably in the palm of the hand.

"The Canon HV10 HDV camcorder gives consumers some of the same technologies that are used by demanding professionals in our EOS line of Digital SLR cameras and our best selling broadcast television lenses," said Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the consumer imaging group at Canon U.S.A., Inc. "Consumers who enjoy the premium picture quality of their High Definition television sets can now capture their memories and play them back at that same high quality."

The Canon CMOS Sensor

As the leading CMOS manufacturer, professional photographers have come to depend upon Canon for high resolution, great dynamic range, and low noise. For the first time, Canon has incorporated CMOS into its newest HDV camcorder to capture the high resolution needed for HD video with a single sensor. These sensors provide advantages over traditional CCD sensors in speed, versatility, and lower power consumption for longer battery life. Because of its proprietary noise reduction technology, Canon's CMOS sensors capture higher resolution HD video, and even in dimly lit scenes, each pixel delivers the purest possible image. The 1 /2.7" sensor incorporates an RGB primary colour filter with Bayer placement to deliver a sharp HD image with vibrant and accurate colour reproduction. This sensor supplies 1080 HD video to an HDV video tape, while 3.1 megapixel still images can be recorded to a Mini-SD card. Because Canon manufactures its own CMOS sensor, DIGIC DV II image processor and lenses, the company can maintain the utmost control of the image quality.

Canon 10X HD Video Lens with Super Range OIS

The key to acquiring crisp HD video is Canon's high quality HD lens, arising from the company's expertise as a professional grade photographic and broadcast lens manufacturer. Behind the built-in automatic lens cover lies a 10X optical / 200X digital HD Canon zoom lens.

The HV10 HDV camcorder is the first consumer-level camcorder that features Canon's Super-Range Optical Image Stabilization, helping deliver smooth, steady video, even at longer focal lengths. The system uses two detection methods (gyro and vector) to sense the widest range of vibrations from hand-held shake, to vibration from a moving vehicle. By using optical stabilization, it can compensate for a greater degree of camera shake and avoid any loss in image quality, unlike electronic image stabilizers.

Instant AF (Auto Focus) - The Next Generation Focusing System

The HV10 HDV camcorder also incorporates a new autofocus system that is the first of its kind on a consumer level camcorder. Since it is critical to achieve very sharp focus when shooting in High Definition, the camcorder features Canon's revolutionary new Instant AF focusing system. It offers a dramatic improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy (compared to traditional autofocus systems). The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in combination with Canon's autofocus system, to help significantly decrease the time it takes to find focus, even in low light conditions. This new system achieves focus almost instantaneously, reducing focus "hunting." Users can especially see the benefits of Instant AF in high brightness, and night shooting situations. Camera operators can capture fast, accurate focusing, even when following a moving subject.

The New Canon DIGIC DV II Processor

Also found in the professional grade XL H1 HD camcorder, the Canon HV10 HDV camcorder features Canon's DIGIC DV II image processor, which is designed to handle the vast amount of information required for HD recording. DIGIC DV II helps to ensure low noise, a wide dynamic range, and accurate color reproduction for both video and photos.

The HV10 is also the world's smallest and lightest true HDV camcorder, weighing in at a mere 0.97 pounds. Approximately 2" wide by 4" tall, the HV10 is a pocketable masterpiece designed for easy one-handed operation, with all of the controls at the user's fingertips. Complimenting its small size, the two-toned Granite Black and metallic body is designed to be comfortable in the users' hands and exude a sophisticated appearance.

With the intent of giving the user the best-looking video possible to preserve their memories, the HV10 HDV camcorder has a wealth of features, including Smooth Zoom Control to help eliminate jerky zooms, Level Shot Control to help keep the framing straight, and a built-in video light to illuminate low-light situations. The HV10 HDV camcorder will also letterbox the 16:9 footage, for standard definition (SD) television viewers, to play on almost any TV or computer monitor.

Advanced Photo Features

As a digital still camera, the HV10 excels with all of Canon's best digital camera features. Users can frame their shots with nine-point autofocus on a 2.7" widescreen LCD, and then take 3.1 megapixel images to the Mini SD card, or two megapixel photos to the video tape, all while simultaneously recording HD video. To adapt to different shooting situations, the HV10 HDV camcorder has 11 shooting modes, including Continuous Shooting which allows users to shoot five (3.1 Megapixel) still images per second, as well as a built-in flash for low light situations. In addition, users can also connect a PictBridge compatible device to the camera for seamless still image transfer or printing. A histogram function is also included on the camcorder, to check exposure levels while shooting.

Due to be shipped to US stores in September, the Canon HV10 HDV camcorder will sell with an estimated price tag of $1299.

More pictures of the Canon HV10 HDV camera here