Sony has launched the HDR-TG3E, with the claim that it is the world’s smallest HD 1080 Camcorder.
With dimensions of 33 x 119 x 63.5mm and 283g, it can be slipped into your pocket effortlessly.
Sony claims that it is the smallest, slimmest, lightest camcorder to feature 1920×1080 Full HD recording with 5.1channel surround sound. It has a pure titanium body with a scratch-resistant premium hard coating.
Main features include Face Detection, ClearVid CMOS sensor, and a BIONZ image processor. Despite its small size, the TG3E has a decent sized 2.7in touch screen viewfinder. It comes with a 4GB card (about 1.5 hours recording time) and with the 16GB version can record up to 5 hours 55min of full HD films (in long play mode). It can also take stills - 4MP when in photo mode, and even 2.3MP while video recording.
The camcorder has Sony’s Intelligent Face Detection, recognising up to 8 faces in one scene, making it easier to shoot people in different situations.
Video can be easily transferred from the camcorder memory to DVD using the supplied Handycam Station, by simply pressing a single button.
It also includes the 'Bravia Sync' system wherein one can connect the camcorder to a Sony Bravia TV and control it and the playback of the video shoot with a single remote.
It comes bundled with a 4GB Memory Stick but there is also an optional 16GB.
It will be available from end of May 2008. There is information on pricing as yet, but is expected to be around £600.
