Panasonic Introduces New Waterproof Camcorder Designed for Active Use

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic today introduced the new HX-WA2 camcorder, which provides users with enhanced features and durable product design for more opportunities to shoot high-quality video and still images in a variety of outdoor conditions. Ideal for capturing underwater activities and scenes, the Panasonic HX-WA2 camcorder features a waterproof(1) design which allows for submersion in water at a depth of up to 9 feet, 8 inches (three meters). 

"Designed with adventurers in mind, Panasonic's new HX-WA2 camcorder provides users with more diverse functionality for shooting in outdoor environments.  The resilient, waterproof design allows users to experiment with shots in rainy conditions and even underwater," said Chris Rice, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America.  "By enabling both video and still picture recording, users can enjoy enhanced features for capturing crisp, clear memories."

Beyond capturing HD videos, the HX-WA2 can also shoot, high-quality, 14-Megapixel images and can also utilize the Panorama Mode function by simply panning the camera up, down, left or right to capture horizontal or vertical panoramic images.  Intelligent 15x Zoom(2) allows users to record faraway subjects in extreme detail and Active E.I.S. (Electric Image Stabilization) provides powerful hand-shake correction for clear, blur-free video or still pictures

Using the included HD Writer VE2.0 software, consumers can easily edit videos captured on the Panasonic HX-WA2.  The software features a "Smart Wizard" that automatically starts when the camcorder is connected to the USB port of a PC, prompting users to follow a simple, on-screen guide to easily copy video clips to a PC or burn to a DVD.  The software also allows videos to be easily uploaded onto YouTube™ and Facebook™ so even the most inexperienced users can post onto the web.  Advanced editing functions allow users to set their favorite songs(3) as background music, insert various effects and transitions, and even use photo retouch. With the newly added Short Movie Story function, a user can easily transform recorded still images into a dramatic short movie. Once the image data, theme, and background music are selected, the camera takes over to automatically complete the story, which can be saved onto disc with HD image quality and easily uploaded to the web.

The Panasonic HX-WA2 will be available in blue and orange.  Pricing and 2012 availability will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping.  For more information, and live coverage on January 10-11 from Panasonic at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show, please visit www.panasonic.com/CES. Plus, follow Panasonic's CES activities on Twitter @PanasonicEvents and join the conversations.

(1) Waterproof: IEC 60529 IPX8. This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.
(2) When using the 15x Zoom, switching is required by pressing the Double Range Zoom button.  When the Electrical Image Stabilizer is turned on, the zoom is 12x.  When shooting photos, the maximum zoom is 5x.
(3) WAV, MP3 and WMA formats are supported.

• YouTube and the YouTube logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Google Inc.
• Facebook is a registered trademark or trademark of Facebook, Inc.

About Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and Canada.  The Company's portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges from VIERA Full HD 3D Televisions, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Wellness and Personal Care products and more. 

Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer Electronics company to be listed in the top ten brands on the Interbrand Best Global Green Brands 2011 ranking. Follow Panasonic on Twitter @panasonicdirect, and additional company information for media is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

SOURCE Panasonic