Panasonic to Launch World's First Interchangeable 3D Lens for LUMIX G Micro System

Osaka, Japan - Panasonic Corporation today announced the development of the world's first^*1 twin-lens digital interchangeable 3D lens for its LUMIX G Micro System^*2. The new addition to the powerful lineup of interchangeable lenses for the G Series will enable high-quality shooting in 3D. As 3D content becomes ever more popular across a variety of media, Panasonic plans to release this new lens for sale before the end of the year and enhance the joy of digital photography by adding another dimension.

This year, the "First Year of 3D Era," Panasonic has spearheaded the industry by launching 3D-capable VIERA televisions and 3D Blu-ray Disc^TM players. While 3D content, including movies and sports, has become more widely available for viewing, there are many customers who want to enjoy 3D shooting themselves. This new lens responds to such demand. It allows users to shoot landscapes, their family and friends, and more in high-quality 3D, and enjoy viewing on a 3D VIERA television at home.

Until now, 3D-capable interchangeable lens system cameras have used panorama systems or a combination of two lenses and two CCDs, but these systems have drawbacks including the need for a dedicated 3D camera and the difficulties capturing moving objects.

Panasonic's new 3D lens for the LUMIX G Micro System features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses, to be processed with a 3D image processing system. Thanks to Panasonic's advanced technologies in optics, image processing system, and lens barrel design, the 3D lens still retains an extremely compact size.

This new compact 3D-capable interchangeable lens allows easier handling and instant 3D shooting with cameras without a special structure for 3D shooting. It produces 3D images without distortion or time lag between left and right images, even for moving objects. The 3D images, even close-up shots, taken with this lens are easy on the eyes when viewed on 3D VIERA televisions.

Panasonic has led the industry in bringing a true-to-life 3D experience to its customers, and will continue to expand its lineup of 3D products with innovative technologies.

About Panasonic

Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development and manufacture of electronic products for a wide range of consumer, business, and industrial needs. Based in Osaka, Japan, the company recorded consolidated net sales of 7.42 trillion yen (US$79.4 billion) for the year ended March 31, 2010. The company's shares are listed on the Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and New York (NYSE: PC) stock exchanges. For more information on the company and the Panasonic brand, visit the company's website at http://panasonic.net.