Sony has just released what it calls the world’s first full high-definition camcorder, the HDR-TG1.

The new Sony HDR-TG1 HD camcorder

The official press release claims :

SAN DIEGO, Apr. 2, 2008. The new pocket-sized Sony HDR-TG1 Handycam camcorder’s weighty high-definition capability will appeal to vacationers who prefer to “travel light.”

This diminutive camcorder weighs in at only ten ounces. It has an ultra-portable body measuring just 1.3-inches wide by 4.7-inches tall by 2.5-inches deep.

It is a full-featured camcorder that can record 1920 x 1080 HD video and 4-megapixel digital photos directly to Sony Memory Stick PRO Duo or PRO Duo Mark2 media cards. Its size and full recording capability makes it the world’s smallest full HD camcorder.

Oddly, I’ve been looking for something like this for quite a while. It will be good to see the reviews when they start appearing.

“It ships with a supplied 4GB PRO Duo Mark2 media card so it’s ready to go straight out of the box and you don’t have to make space in your travel bag for extra discs or tapes.”

Kelly Davis, director of camcorder marketing at Sony Electronics, says, “Sony was the first to introduce a travel-sized camcorder with 8 mm technology in the 1980’s, and it revolutionized the travel and electronics industries. This new model is a great example of our expertise in miniaturization, as well as advanced imaging technologies with features like face detection.”

Sounds irresistible. So how much will it cost?

The company says, “The HDR-TG1 camcorder will ship with supplied accessories in May for about $900. There is also an optional travel kit (Sony ACC-TCH5) that includes a battery, travel charger and pouch for about $100. Plus, there is a custom-fit case (Sony LCM-TGA) with brushed metal accents available as an accessory for about $50.”