Sony Releases New Ultra-Compact AVCHD Camcorder With GPS: The HDR-TG5V

April 2, 2009 – Sony unveiled today a new ultra-compact AVCHD camcorder—the HDR-TG5V. The camcorder arrives as an upgrade to last year's HDR-TG1, and it shares the same upright, titanium-body design of its predecessor. Sony packs in 16GB of internal flash memory on the HDR-TG5V, which is something that should significantly increase its portability over the Memory Stick-only HDR-TG1. Additionally, the camcorder includes built-in GPS software—something Sony has been pushing on numerous models in 2009. The camcorder is expected to ship in May for around $1000.

Much like the HDR-TG1 before it, the HDR-TG5V is marketed as a fashionable, high-end compact camcorder for travelers. The upright design and sleek aesthetic aren't the most practical innovations, but they do make for a unique-looking device. Although complete specs aren't available at this point, the HDR-TG5V appears to sport the same 10x optical zoom lens as on the HDR-TG1. The camcorder is equipped with Sony's BIONZ image processor, an Exmor CMOS sensor, and it can capture full HD video at a 1920 x 1080 resolution. In photo mode, the camcorder is capable of taking 4-megapixel still images.

The HDR-TG5V features a 2.7-inch LCD with a redesigned touchscreen interface. Hopefully, the new design will make Sony's touchscreen easier to use and navigate, which was one of the biggest problems with last year's HDR-TG1. THe HDR-TG5V also has a simplified button design, with its back side resembling the large, one-button system prominently featured on Pure Digital's Flip series of camcorders. The HDR-TG5V does come with a docking station, which is where most of the camcorder's ports are located (other than AV-output and DC-input, both of which are also located on the camcorder body itself).

The HDR-TG5V shares the same upright, pistol-grip design as its predecessor. It has no hand-strap, which may seem unusual for traditional camcorder users, but its compact design should allow for fairly comfortable handling. The HDR-TG5V is not nearly as compact as some of the low-end HD camcorders on the market—like the Pure Digital Flip Mino, Kodak Zi6, or Sony's own MHS-PM1 Webbie HD—but its extra size should allow for more versatility and better video performance.

The HDR-TG5V will ship in May for about $1000. Two optional accessories—a travel kit and a wide angle conversion lens—will also both be available from Sony for an extra $100 a piece.

The Sony HDR-TG5V from the back.		The HDR-TG5V in provided docking station.

Click here for the complete Sony HDR-TG5V photo gallery.