Panasonic drops Olympic-sized hints

While we’re going to have to wait a couple of weeks to find out exactly what Panasonic is up to at London 2012, the company promises that it will be using IBC to focus on a number of key technology areas, namely its latest camcorder and display technology, and advancements to its flexible codec and workflow solutions.But first, London 2012, where the company is celebrating the tenth Olympic event in a row where its kit has been billed as the official recording format.

“We’ll be sharing exciting new developments around Panasonic involvement in the 2012 Olympics, which will continue to push the limits of the broadcast industry,” states Christian Sokcevic, Director of Professional AV Europe at Panasonic, before then going very quiet on the topic (but the number 3 and the letter D are probably involved somewhere along the line).

Elsewhere and on its largest stand to date, the company will demonstrate its new AVC Ultra (AVCU) recording format, a unified codec that supports a wide range of data-rates. Based on the H.264 standard, the flexibility of AVCU means that it is suitable for both high-end and mainstream production, making it a good choice in a number of professional applications including filming in 3D. Panasonic will also be focusing on new tools for Metadata management including automatic metadata gathering using easy and intuitive data creation that allows broadcast content to be stored, traced and received in less time. Finally, as the industry moves towards a media-less environment, Panasonic will share its developments in cloud-based solutions designed to help broadcast professionals deliver content such as breaking news faster and more efficiently.

Sokcevic adds: “The broadcast industry is on the cusp of change, with 3D now a firm reality and professionals inspired to create new content, the question now is how do we capture and deliver it seamlessly and in the highest quality. Our presence at IBC this year is focused on making those dreams a reality, from updates and advancements of our revolutionary camcorders to our flexible codec, AVC Ultra and the latest real-life cases of 3D.

A full Panasonic camcorder line-up will be available to view at the show. As an extension of its main stand presence, Panasonic’s Knowledge Village will provide a camera surgery where visitors can see the components of each camera, learn about the technology and ask questions from dedicated experts throughout the show.