LAS VEGAS (CES BOOTH #14200), Jan. 7, 2009 – Sony is making it easy to preserve memories in the best quality possible by introducing a flash memory-based high-definition camcorder with intelligent features, which is designed to fit within the family budget.

The HDR-CX100 Flash Memory Handycam® camcorder preserves your memories in high resolution by capturing 1920x1080 high-definition video and 4-megapixel photos. For around $600, the model also features intelligent Face Detection and Smile Shutter™ technology, 8GB of embedded memory (a portion of which is used for data management), and three color options (red, black and silver) -- all in a compact design.

“The new HDR-CX100 camcorder makes it possible for every family to own an HD camcorder so they can capture important moments in the highest quality possible” said Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics. “Packed with several intelligent features in an extremely portable body, we expect this model to attract many camcorder customers into the high-definition category.”

The HDR-CX100 camcorder features Smile Shutter technology to capture candid smiling photos while simultaneously recording video. To make sure your family stays in focus at all times, Face Detection technology recognizes and enhances the face by automatically correcting focus, exposure and color control.

Sony HDR-CX100 digital camcorder. Photo provided by Sony Electronics.

Ready to capture important family moments straight out of the box, the camcorder includes 8GB of embedded memory which holds over three hours of high definition video recording (LP mode). You can also capture content onto Memory Stick® PRO Duo media (sold separately) for additional recording time.

In addition to a high-quality Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar® 10X optical zoom lens, the camcorder is packed with such incredible features as a built-in zoom microphone for recording clear dialogue and Steady Shot® image stabilization that reduces shake for smooth video and clear photos. The camcorder instantly powers on when you open the 2.7-inch (measured diagonally) Clear Photo LCD Plus™ screen to make sure you capture the moment before it passes.

Sony is also introducing three standard-definition flash memory models offering up to 16GB embedded memory (a portion of which is used for data management), 60X optical zoom and 2.7-inch (measured diagonally) wide LCD touch panel screens. Taking advantage of the compact nature of flash memory, the new camcorders are highly portable with personalized color variations in red, blue and silver.

The 16GB DCR-SX60, 8GB DCR-SX41and 4GB DCR-SX40 camcorders will cost about $370, $300 and $270, respectively.  The models will work with Sony’s new DVDirect® Express writer (model VRD-P1), which offers a quick and easy way to transfer home videos directly to DVD without a computer.  The VRD-P1 DVD Express writer will be available this month for about $150.

Camcorders and accessories will be available in March at Sony Style® retail stores, online through www.sonystyle.com, at authorized dealers and at military base exchanges nationwide.

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Editor’s Note: For additional information about Sony® products, your readers can call toll-free at (888) 222-SONY, or visit Sony's web site at www.sonystyle.com. Press releases and digital images are available for the news media at Sony Electronics’ news and information web site at www.sony.com/news.

Sony DCR-SX60 digital camcorder. Photo provided by Sony Electronics.