hd videoconferencing
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Samsung makes Skype for new LED lit HDTVs official
Panasonic and LG won't be the only ones with Skype-enabled HDTVs, though we peeped it in the specs earlier, Samsung has officially announced its new 7000 and 8000 series televisions will also include access. Accessible through the embedded Samsung Apps service, it appears it will work with the new HD video processing webcams just like the others, so users can log in to or create an account with the remote then make video or voice calls away from the PC. We heard at CES those cameras could run as high as $200, check out the CES 2010 demo from Panasonic to see if couch videoconferencing is worth the additional expense.
Skype HD: 720p videocalling from PCs or directly through LG & Panasonic HDTVs
Skype has already made an impact on the home phone, mobiles and PC desktops (couldn't do our podcast without it) and now it's taking on the living room. LG and Panasonic are already lined up to deliver new HD webcams for their internet connected plasma and LCD HDTVs that will enable living room-to-living room calling in 720p. With support for the service's standard features like free Skype-to-Skype calling, voicemail, receiving inbound calls and more, using the TV to make calls should be just as easy (but likely more embarrassing, try some HD makeup -- just a tip) as we're used to. PC users haven't been left behind with 720p HD streaming built into the latest client and new webcams on the way from faceVsion and In Store Solutions. Like the ones planned for the TVs, they handle video processing onboard so even older computers or underpowered netbooks can support HD streaming without bursting into flames. Let the good people at Skype explain it all to you in a video embedded after the break, we'll wait to get our hands and made-for-SD faces some time with the new setup this week at CES Update: We've found a few pics of LG's version of the Skype HDTV experience to go along with the Panasonic rendering above, check the gallery. %Gallery-81460%
EyeCrown intros HD videoconferencing system for your TV
If you've been befuddled by the complexities in those corporately-geared HD videoconference systems, have a look at this piece. The EyeCrown system was designed for use in everyday homes with everyday high-speed internet connections; the kit contains a set-top-box and a camera, and thanks to some fancy form of compression, a dedicated T1 line isn't required to video chat in high-def. Unfortunately, one EyeCrown only works with another EyeCrown, so unless you plan on buying your mother one as well, you can forget about making one play nice with something else. Folks across the pond can expect it to become available in February of 2009 for a currently undisclosed price.[Via HDTV Info]
