Panasonic debuts new Viera HDTVs and DSLR hotness at IFA

By Joshua Topolsky

We've just gotten back from the Panasonic press conference at IFA, where the electronics giant unveiled a couple of interesting new products, including a new lineup of HDTVs, and the brand-spanking-new Lumix DMC-L10 DSLR camera. Here's a brief rundown of all the hot action that you missed, including an Olympics-esque runner dashing across the stage (all for show, folks).

First up on the mic was Joachim Reinhart, head of Panasonic Germany, who had nothing but pleasant things to say about the company's products, which shouldn't be a surprise. Mr. Reinhart spoke at length about Panasonic's strength in the European market, rattling off number after number which would surely put even the most dedicated electronics lover to sleep. Mr. Reinhart did step it up a notch when he addressed the ongoing HD DVD vs. Blu-ray debate and declared (rather boldy) that Panasonic is, "Firmly convinced that Blu-ray will succeed to become the dominant format."

Next on stage to rock the crowd (as only he can) was our main man Yorihisa Shiokawa, director of Panasonic marketing in Europe, who stunned the audience into dumbfounded submission with his totally ill multi-language greeting technique. Unfortunately, he followed up by only mentioning new products in passing, and went on to blindly reiterate how awesome Panasonic sales were. Even people in the audience who seemed to like mass amounts of data were starting to squirm. Finally he pulled himself out of a nosedive by mentioning a new lineup of Viera televisions, 18 in all, featuring full 1080p HD, networking capabilities, and an enviornmentally friendly design process.

Last, but certainly not least was Mamoru Yoshida, Director of digital still cameras at Panasonic, who wasted no time in dropping the Lumix bomb on the crowd, namely, the sweet new DSLR dubbed the L10. Of course, you can read all about that over at our totally radical product coverage.

All in all, not one of the most exciting press conferences we've ever been to, but definitely one which yielded some interesting new products. Stay tuned for detailed reports on new gear.

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