Camcorder News

UPDATE: October 13, 2009 – Today, JVC confirmed that the previously announced Picsio GC-FM1 would see a North American release. Previously announced only in Japan and Europe, consumers on this side of the globe can now expect to see JVC's 'Flip-killer.' Official release date is yet to be announced, but the camcorder is expected to retail for $199.

CamcorderInfo got an exclusive first look at the Picsio and were able to put it through our labs in the usual battery of tests. To see how JVC's first enry into the ultracompact budget camcorder market fared, read our full scientific review here.

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September 11, 2009 – JVC unveiled the Picsio GC-FM1 camcorder today at the IFA trade show in Berlin, Germany. The camcorder includes an SD/SDHC card slot, an 8-megapixel still image capability, and can record HD video at a 1440 x 1080 resolution.

With the release of the GC-FM1, JVC has leapt into the ultra-compact budget camcorder market that has been dominated by Pure Digital's Flip series of camcorders for the past few years. The GC-FM1 will join the foray along with Sony's Webbie HD camcorders (the MHS-PM1 and MHS-CM1), Kodak's line of pocket-cams (the Zx1, Zi6, and Zi8), as well as ultra-compact models from RCA and Creative.

The GC-FM1 does have a few features to separate it from the crowd. It features a Digital Image Stabilization system, a 2-inch LCD screen, a 4x digital zoom, and a 1/3.2-inch CMOS sensor. The camcorder's ability to take 8-meagpixel photos is perhaps its most impressive feature.

As with most ultra-compact camcorders, the GC-FM1 contains built-in software that comes pre-installed on the camcorder's internal memory. According to JVC, the software allows for simple YouTube uploading and is compatible with iTunes. Video files are saved in the .MOV format on the GC-FM1.

The GC-FM1 comes in three colors—listed as Black Ice, Blue Steel, and Purple Passion on JVC's UK site—and its body design is eerily reminiscent of the Flip UltraHD and the Sony MHS-PM1. According to JVC, the camcorder will be available in Europe soon with a retail price of 199.99 Euro.