Panasonic Canada announced model details as well as retail pricing and availability for its latest Blu-ray Disc (BD) players.

For more information visit: www.panasonic.ca

Unedited press release follows:

PANASONIC’S 2011 BLU-RAY™ LINE UP FOCUSES ON HIGH-QUALITY PICTURE AND SOUND, EASE-OF-USE, CONNECTIVITY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

New Models Introduce Skype™ Video / Voice Communication Service to Blu-ray Disc™ Players Feature Touch-Free Sensor, iPhone® Remote, Built-In WiFi System and Reduced Power Consumption

MISSISSAUGA, ON (March 22, 2011) – Panasonic Canada Inc, today introduced an expanded Blu-ray DiscTM player line-up with three new Full HD 3D models – the DMP-BDT310, DMP-BDT210, DMP-BDT110 – and the new 2D model, the DMP-BD75.

The BDT310, BDT210 and BDT110 are high-quality Blu-ray Disc players with 2D-3D Conversion which can convert 2D images from DVDs and Blu-ray discs into 3D with natural depth perception. The 3D Effect Controller allows users to control the leaping effects of 3D images and adjust the amount of depth to view expansive images in order to enjoy 3D content with exactly the kind of effects they want. Also contributing to higher picture quality is the new UniPhier chip, which simultaneously lowers power consumption1, and vertical colour reference process which has been increased by 1.5 times to express fine details and nuances in movie scenes via Adaptive Chroma Processing. The HDMI Pure Audio improves sound quality, delivering pure and robust bass sound reproduction with minimal noise compared to previous models.

The newest addition to VIERA CAST™, Panasonic’s proprietary internet solution, on the BDT310, BDT210 and BDT110 is the video / voice communication service, Skype™2. With this new application and optional camera, users can engage in long distance video / voice conversations with family and friends right from their TV. Panasonic has made it even easier to access this function through the Blu-ray Disc player with a devoted Skype button on the remote control. Other features of Skype include Standby Mode, Auto Answering Video Message, which allows users to create a personalized message when away, and Video Voice Mail Recording which automatically records messages left onto an SD card. These three models are also DLNA-certified, allowing users to enjoy content with their Blu-ray Disc player, from a computer or other DLNA compatible device.

VIERA CAST has been further enhanced with Netflix3, allowing viewers to stream movies. VIERA CAST’s popular sites, including YouTube™, Twitter, Bloomberg News, and a weather channel, continue on the 2011 models and are joined by a host of exciting new features and apps – all optimized for the best possible user experience.

Panasonic DMP-BDT310

Panasonic DMP-BDT210

Panasonic DMP-BDT110

Panasonic DMP-BD75

“Panasonic’s 2011 Blu-ray Disc Player line-up incorporates the successes of the 2010 line, while adding innovative features that meet the demand of consumers and new trends in technology,” said Brian Lang, Senior Product Manager, A/V Entertainment. “Features like the Touch-Free Sensor, Home Screen Wallpaper and Skype allow users to easily personalize their entertainment experience to fit their lifestyle. And now the consumer can enjoy the benefits of Skype from any HDTV.”

The BDT310, BDT210, BDT110 and BD75 feature a unique updated design, making operation simple with icons and text directions. They also have ultra-quick playback. The BDT310 and BDT210 feature a Touch-Free Sensor to open and close the disc tray for smooth operation, perfect for dark rooms. Additionally, each of the 3D Blu-ray Disc players works with an iPhone® as a remote.

New networking capabilities are among the key features of the new 2011 Blu-ray Disc player line-up. All four players allow users to customize their own home screen using their favorite photo or wallpaper. Simply insert an SD card into the Blu-ray Disc player to transfer the image. The BDT310 and BDT210 feature a built-in Wi-Fi System, while the BDT110 requires an optional wireless adaptor for local area network connections.

Energy efficiency is also important to the overall design and functionality of these models. All four have compact slim designs and packaging reduction (50 per cent less from 2010 models), significantly reducing CO2 emissions. The BDT310, BDT210 and BDT110 also have an energy-saving design which reduces power1 to save on electricity bills and natural resources.

1 In comparison with similar Panasonic models from 2010.
2 Skype video calling requires access to a broadband Internet connection as well as a Skype compatible camera available from Panasonic, sold separately, to make video calls.
3Available to subscribers of individual sites

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Panasonic and VIERA are registered trademarks of Panasonic Corporation.
All other trademarks are property of the respective owners.

Panasonic products are marketed in Canada by Panasonic Canada Inc. (PCI). PCI is a subsidiary of Panasonic North America, one of the world’s largest producers of electronic and electric products for consumer, business, and industrial use. Consumers seeking more information on the company’s products can call Panasonic’s Customer Care Centre at 1-800-561-5505 or access Panasonic’s home page at www.panasonic.ca.