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Panasonic Announces Four 4K 60p 10bit Professional Camcorders with a Wide-Angle 25mm*¹ Lens and 24x Optical Zoom

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NEWARK, N.J., Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In early March, Panasonic will release four models of 4K professional camcorders to meet all video production, broadcasting, and distribution needs. The AG-CX20 and HC-X2100 have a removable handle unit, while the HC-X1600 is compatible with the separately sold handle unit.

The 4K 60p 10-bit camcorders combine a compact and lightweight body for superior mobility with unparalleled optical performance featuring a 25mm wide-angle and 24x optical zoom. This series has been highly acclaimed by directors who record with one-man operations and at other professional filming locations requiring high mobility and image-quality performance.

For the latest models, Panasonic has incorporated improvements based on feedback to make them even more useful for video production for more users. The main improvements are as follows.

Improved viewfinder operability: High-resolution OLED viewfinder with 1,770 K dots and larger eyecups.Change to USB-C port: The USB port has been changed to the highly versatile Type-C, which can also feed power to the camcorder.Addition of low-bitrate recording mode (firmware support): A new low-bitrate mode for FHD MP4 recording will be added in the next firmware update. It will support 28 Mbps (50p/59.94p), 24 Mbps (23.98p), and 20 Mbps (25p/29.97p).Improved low-speed zoom: It supports low-speed zoom, which is approximately 2.8 times slower than the previous model, to expand the range of video expression.Shooting guideline display support: A guideline display has been added that allows users to check composition and horizontality.Enhanced network functionality: Supports Wi-Fi 5 GHz*2 and adds USB tethering functionality*3.Improved operability through linkage with an app*2: The dedicated app “HC-ROP” now supports the live view function, making it easier to operate the camera from a smart device.

The high-end AG-CX20/HC-X2100 models support FHD live streaming through Wi-Fi and ethernet. In addition, the AG-CX20 will support the SRT*4 protocol for high-quality, low-latency streaming. From a system standpoint, the AG-CX20/HC-X2100 are equipped with 3G-SDI and support simultaneous output with HDMI. The AG-CX20 also provides NDI HX2-compliant IP connectivity for smooth live streaming in a network environment.

Panasonic will continue to introduce camcorders that meet a wide range of needs, from directors who conduct on-location shooting and interviews to video creators who pursue high-quality video production and live streaming.

*1 35mm camera equivalent.
*2 Except HC-X1200
*3 AG-CX20/HC-X2100 only
*4 To be added by firmware update

Feature Comparison

AG-CX20

HC-X2100

HC-X1600

HC-X1200

HC-X2100 Features
+

HC-X1600 Features
+

HC-X1200 Features
+

P2 MXF microP2 card Support NDI HX2 Compatible SRT Protocol*1

 

3G SDI-Out Simultaneous SDI/HDMI output USB Tethering Ethernet*2 Dual Codec Recording*1 Detachable Handle Unit Included

 

Built-in Wi-Fi (5GHz/2.4GHz) HC ROP MOV Recording (4:2:2-10bit rec, 24bit- LPCM) 4:2:2 10-bit Internal Recording FHD Live Streaming Compatible with the Optional Detachable Handle Unit Tiltable Viewfinder with Large Eyecup XLR Input x 2*3 LED Light*4

 

4K 60p recording Wide 25mm and Optical 24x Zoom Lens 4K High-Precision AF 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S. HEVC 4:2:0 10-bit Internal ND Filter Heat-Dispersing Design Two Manual Rings Double SD Card Slot USB PD (Type-C) Long Life Battery

 

*1 To be added by firmware update. *2 USB-LAN conversion adaptor is needed.  *3 The optional handle unit is needed.

Featuring Optical Performance for Precise Shooting
The integrated lens offers a remarkably powerful, optical 24x zoom that ranges from 25mm*1 wide-angle to 600mm*1 tele. i.ZOOM achieves 32x at 4K mode and 48x at FHD mode. The 4-Drive Lens System drives the four lens groups independently, thus achieving the optical 24x zoom and compact body size.
Two Manual Rings are provided, one for focusing and the other for zoom or iris operation. The manual rings are designed in different sizes, so the appropriate ring can be controlled without error by touching it with the fingers. ND Filters can be selected from 1/4, 1/16, 1/64, and Clear, while glass is used as a countermeasure against scorching from sunlight condensation. (*1 35mm camera equivalent)

High-speed, High-precision AF Including Face Detection AF/AE
Superior focusing speed, stability, and tracking performance for both 4K and FHD are achieved thanks to Face Detection AF/AE, together with the precise focus lens drive. Face Detection AF/AE provides precise focusing and sufficient exposure for subjects. In addition, subject tracking with color recognition can be activated by just touching the LCD panel, enabling precise tracking.

5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S. Enables Stable Image Acquisition
In addition to OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), Electronic Image Stabilization operates to detect and correct handshake in 5 axes, including rotational blurring. This provides strong correction under unstable conditions, such as low-angle and high-angle shooting. The Ball O.I.S. System reduces friction on the drive section, achieving delicate correction even for small-amplitude handshakes. This produces beautiful images with suppressed handshakes even at high, 24x optical zoom.

Compact Body Equipped with 4K/60p Thanks to a Heat-Dispersing Design
The heat-dispersing design with a thin fan enables a compact, lightweight body and 4K 60p high-definition recording. Reliable, extended shooting is achieved by pulling in air from the rear panel of the camera and efficiently dispersing heat from the front panel.

High-Quality Recording with Versatile Modes
The camcorders support a variety of bit rates and formats to meet professional needs. This enabled 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording with a maximum of 29.97 p in UHD and 59.94p in FHD. When set for 10-bit recording, the camcorder delivers 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output, enabling high-image-quality capture with an external recorder. Highly efficient HEVC recording (LongGOP/10-bit 4:2:0/MOV) is also supported for recording UHD 59.94p at a high bit rate of 200 Mbps.
As for file formats, in addition to MOV*1, MP4, and AVCHD, the AG-CX20 also supports the ideal P2 MXF for the editing system for broadcast stations and recording by the AVC-Intra/AVC-LongG codecs is supported.
In addition, low bit rate recording formats of 28 Mbps (50p/59.94p), 24 Mbps (23.98p), and 20 Mbps (25p/29.97p) are planned to be added to the FHD MP4 recording in the next firmware update.
*1 Except HC-X1200

Functions and Designs Supporting Pro Camera Work
A bright video light is built into the handle. The dimmer dial can adjust the brightness for shooting in dim lighting. For shooting in even darker conditions, commercially available IR lights*1 are supported for IR (Infrared) Shooting. The high-resolution 3.5-inch monitor with approximately 2,760 K dots provides excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. It has an electrostatic touch panel that enables smooth operation when selecting menus, and the size of the eyecups has been increased to ensure comfort when shooting for long periods. The included large-capacity battery does not protrude when attached and enables extended shooting.
*1 Recommended: 850-nm wavelength light
Continuous Recordable Time (approx.)

CX20 / X2100

X1600 / X1200

50Hz: 4h 50min.

60Hz: 4h 35min.

50Hz: 6h 30min.

60Hz: 6h 10min.

When using the LCD monitor and not using the external terminal

Double SD Card Slot Meets Recording Needs
Two SD memory card slots are provided. With Unlimited Relay Recording, the recording media switches automatically and seamlessly from Slot 1 to Slot 2. Simultaneous or Background Recording is also selectable to match the workflow and card necessity.

Unlimited*1 Relay Recording: Data is recorded continuously by automatically switching the recording SD card from Slot 1 to Slot 2. Changing the full SD card with a new SD card allows images to be recorded continuously for many hours.Simultaneous Recording: In this highly redundant recording mode, identical data is recorded onto cards in both slots.Background Recording: One SD card can be set in Slot 2 to record continuously, and another can be set in Slot 1 to record necessary scenes by turning REC on and off.Dual Codec Recording*2 (AG-CX20/HC-X2100 only): Records images simultaneously in two different formats, such as Main (UHD/FHD) and Sub (FHD), etc. This achieves an efficient workflow.
*1 If the relay recording time reaches 10 hours, shooting will temporarily stop and then automatically restart a few seconds later.
*2 To be added by firmware update.

48-kHz/24-bit High-Resolution Linear PCM Audio Recording
+48V Phantom Power Supply/MIC/LINE Selectable XLR Audio Input with Manual Volume is equipped for each of 2 channels. Also supported is a 24-bit linear PCM system (MOV/P2 MXF*1), 16-bit AAC (MP4), or Dolby Audio system (AVCHD) high-quality 2-channel audio recording. The optional handle unit (VW-HU1) is required for HC-X1600.
*1 AG-CX20 only

Versatile Network Functions Expand the User’s Workflow
Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi® (IEEE802.11ac)*1 in addition to the 2.4 GHz band. USB tethering*2 using a smartphone is now also possible in unstable network environments such as those with frequent radio interference. Live view is now available via the dedicated tablet/smartphone app “HC ROP”, which improves operability for wireless control of camera settings, lens control, etc.
The AG-CX20/HC-X2100 supports RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol), allowing live streaming of concerts, sporting event broadcasts, news, etc. to Facebook, YouTube, and others. The AG-CX20 will support the next-generation image transmission protocol SRT in the next firmware upgrade, enabling live streaming with high image quality and low latency.
The AG-CX20/HC-X2100 is equipped with ethernet for more stable live streaming, and a wired LAN connection is available using a commercially available USB LAN conversion adapter.
In addition, the AG-CX20 features the NDI HX2 mode, which allows transmission and camera control over an IP connection without needing external converters.
The AG-CX20/HC-X2100 also supports simultaneous 3G-SDI and HDMI output, with up to FHD 60p 4:2:2 10-bit video output from SDI.
*1 All models except HC-X1200 support Wi-Fi.
*2 USB tethering is supported only with the AG-CX20/HC-X2100.

Optional Accessory
A Handle Unit (VW-HU1) has been added as an optional accessory. It is easily detached and equipped with a 2-channel XLR Audio Input, audio control, and LED light. Operation of the zoom lever attached to the Handle Unit maintains a constant zoom speed, which can be set in 7 steps from the menu.

NDI® is a video connectivity technology registered as a trademark by Vizrt NDI AB in the United States and other countries.Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.YouTube™ and the YouTube logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Google LLC.

Price and availability
The camcorders will be available at valued channel partners in early March. The HC-X2100 price will be $2,199.99, the HC-X1600: $1,699.99 and the HC-X1200: $1,299.99.

About Panasonic Corporation of North America
Newark, N.J.-based Panasonic Corporation of North America is a leading provider of Consumer Lifestyle technologies and innovative Smart Mobility, Sustainable Energy, Immersive Experiences, and Integrated Supply Chain solutions. The company is the principal North American subsidiary of Osaka, Japan-based Panasonic Holdings Corporation. One of Interbrand’s Top 100 Best Global Brands of 2023, Panasonic is a leading technology partner and integrator to businesses, government agencies, and consumers across the region. Learn more about Panasonic’s ideas and innovations at www.na.panasonic.com/us.

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

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Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

Published

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Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

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Global Security & Technology Summit Unveils Month-Long Program of Activities Ahead of December Event

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Organizing Committee of the Global Security & Technology Summit (GSTS) held an introductory session today at the Ministry of Interior’s headquarters in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from the government, private, and nonprofit sectors to introduce the program of activities leading up to the summit. The upcoming summit will be held in Riyadh under the patronage of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, under the supervision of HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy.

During the session, the Organizing Committee presented the comprehensive GSTS program, comprising three key components: GSTS Month, running from November 1 to 30, 2026; the Global Security & Innovation Fair (SAIF), taking place from November 24 to 26, 2026; and the main Summit, scheduled for December 18 to 20, 2026, in Riyadh. Together, these events form an integrated program designed to advance security and technology innovation, strengthen national capabilities, and foster international cooperation.

GSTS Month will feature working groups, boot camps, training programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, and technical workshops across Saudi Arabia’s 13 administrative regions, delivered both in person and remotely in collaboration with specialized entities. The month-long program aims to develop national capabilities, identify emerging talent, enrich knowledge-sharing opportunities, and equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to develop innovative solutions to future security and technology challenges.

The main Summit will bring together global leaders, decision-makers, experts, and innovators to explore the future of security and technology, promote the integration of advanced technologies within the security sector, strengthen national capabilities, support innovation, and foster international cooperation, further positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for security and technology.

Showcasing the latest technological breakthroughs and security solutions, the summit will bring together government entities, private sector organizations, academic institutions, and research centers to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across key fields, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), smart security solutions, emerging technologies, and crisis management. The program will also feature main sessions, specialized discussions, and interactive exhibitions. Registration is available at gsts.sa.

Advisor to HRH the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Ahmed Altowayan, stated that the summit builds on Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish an advanced security and technology ecosystem focused on knowledge and innovation, keeping pace with rapid developments and future challenges.

Mr. Altowayan noted that the summit is a global platform for strengthening cooperation and exchanging expertise, anticipating future developments in security and technology, and developing strategic partnerships and innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and readiness of security systems.

Vice Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Eng. Abdulaziz Alhammadi, said that the summit will offer a range of integrated programs and activities focused on enhancing national skills, encouraging innovation, and supporting international cooperation.

He added that GSTS Month will help build national capabilities, discover talent, and develop skills, with SAIF providing a platform for innovators and researchers from around the world to showcase leading technological solutions, while the main Summit will bring together leaders and experts to discuss the future of security and technology and explore new strategic partnership opportunities.

SAIF will take place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, bringing together innovators, researchers, technology talents, and industry experts from around the world to showcase promising innovations and projects across 14 fields of technology and innovation. The fair will provide opportunities to engage with project owners, including students, graduates, and entrepreneurs, and explore the different stages of innovation development through interactive zones, panel discussions on emerging security and innovation trends, and knowledge-sharing workshops led by specialists. Visitor registration is open to participants from within and outside the Kingdom through saifair.sa.

The introductory session also featured contributions from representatives of government, private, and nonprofit sector entities, alongside members of the media. Discussions focused on developing national capabilities in security and technology, strengthening students’ technical expertise, translating scientific research into practical solutions, and supporting Saudi companies in developing security and technology solutions and advancing digital transformation.

Organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy, GSTS is produced by Tahaluf, with the Ministry of Education serving as Strategic Scientific Partner, Tahakom as Founding Partner, and Elm as Principal Partner.

Registration for participants from within and outside the Kingdom is available at gsts.sa.

Click here to view the media kit. 

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