Remember the "connected camera" that Panasonic showed off earlier this year? The vendor is looking to start offering the device in limited quantities in the UK from December 1, with "high demand" quoted as the main reason for bringing the DMC-CM1 to the country following a launch in France and Germany.
The DMC-CM1 features the same 1-inch 20MP imaging sensor that is used in the Lumix DMC-FZ1000 camera, which is seven times larger than what is normally found on smartphones. There's also a f/2.8 Leica DC Elmarit lens that offers the ability to record 4K video, and a dedicated hardware shutter button along with a toggle to switch the device between camera and smartphone modes.
Other specs on the DMC-CM1 include 4.7-inch full-HD display, 2.3 GHz Snapdragon 801 CPU, 2 GB RAM, 16 GB internal memory, microSD slot up to 128 GB, NFC connectivity, Android 4.4 KitKat and a 2,600 mAh battery.
Official pricing wasn't confirmed for the UK yet, but it is estimated to be in the vicinity of the device's €899 ($1,115 / £710) list price in France and Germany.
Press Release:
Limited Number of Panasonic's DMC-CM1 to Make a Welcome Arrival to the UK
24th November 2014 - Due to high demand, Panasonic is pleased to announce that it will be launching a limited number of the much anticipated DMC-CM1, premium compact camera with smartphone technology, in the UK. The CM1 was planned to initially launch in France and Germany only, but due to high interest a number of cameras will be available in the UK from 1st December.
The CM1 has gained such interest due its credentials of a high-end compact – including the very same 1-inch sensor that's used in Panasonic's DMC-FZ1000 flagship bridge camera – and smart connective features on board an Android operating system. Meeting the needs of the cloud-computing era, the CM1 features high speed 4G LTE communications and Swipe and Share function which make it possible to upload image data to social media sites with a single flick. The CM1 is also capable of recording 4K video and raw images. Featuring a LEICA DC Lens, this 20 megapixel camera/smartphone hybrid product pushes the boundaries of expectations and will appeal to those with a passion for photography and who will appreciate the quality and creative control this camera offers.
The CM1s will be available online through Panasonic Direct as well as opportunities to buy through selected retailers. Ensuring a good geographical coverage, the CM1 will be available at the following retailers from 1st December.
- Jessops, Oxford St, London.
- Dixons, Harrods, London
- Wilkinson Cameras, Liverpool
- Park Cameras, Burgess Hill,
- Panasonic Store, Plymouth
- John Lewis, Edinburgh*
- Dixons Travel, Heathrow Airport, Terminal 5
As part of the initial launch in the UK, consumers will need to fill in a short questionnaire prior to purchasing the camera. The premium compact camera will be sold on a first come, first served basis.
*Subject to confirmation
