Panasonic Introduces a Fully-Integrated HDTV/iPod(R) Playback Entertainment System

Panasonic Introduces a Fully-Integrated HDTV/iPod(R) Playback Entertainment System

New VIERA(R) LCD X1 HDTVs Allow Users to Play Back and Control iPod Music Photos and Videos via a High-Def VIERA HDTV

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Panasonic (NYSE:PC) , a market and technology leader in High Definition consumer and digital electronics products, today introduced its new line of VIERA X1 LCD televisions which feature a fully-integrated iPod entertainment kit. These flat panel televisions will be available in four different screen sizes: The new for 2009 19-inch class (19" measured diagonally) TC-L19X1, TC-L26X1 26-inch class (26" measured diagonally), TC-L32X1 32-inch class (31.5" measured diagonally) and the TC-L37X1 37-inch class (37" measured diagonally). Each television includes a specially designed external Universal Dock for iPod which allows consumers to enjoy iPod-based music, videos and photos on a larger screen for a more impactful viewing experience. And unlike most other iPod connectivity options, the VIERA X1 and Panasonic's VIERA Link(TM) technology provide special interface capabilities that let the consumers manage content playback through intuitive on-screen display using only the VIERA's remote control.

When the iPod is docked on a VIERA X1 Series HDTV, users simply select the "VIERA Tools" button on the remote control to pull up the iPod icon. Once the iPod icon is selected, users can select from a drop down menu displaying their music, videos or podcast options. The VIERA on-screen music menu mimics the iPod, allowing users to select a song from an artist, album or playlist. Similarly, the video and podcast features provide a list of available videos or podcasts.

"Panasonic incorporated the iPod function into the X1 Series as an extension of our commitment to provide the consumer with the ultimate entertainment experience," said Bob Perry, Executive Vice President, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "From Panasonic's standard television components such as the VIERA Image Viewer(TM) with SD Memory Card slot and Game Mode to our more distinctive features such as our internet-enabled VIERA CAST(TM) feature and the new iPod functions, Panasonic continues to provide its customers with the latest technological advances to enable all parts of a home entertainment system to seamlessly work together and create a connected home."

In addition to the iPod Entertainment Kit, Panasonic's new VIERA X1 Series LCD TVs are equipped with a full suite of HD entertainment features. The television includes VIERA Image Viewer(TM) with an SD Memory Card slot for sharing photos with friends and family, a PC input and Game Mode. The X1 series also includes three HDMI inputs* which can be controlled by the VIERA Link button on the remote control. All X1 LCD televisions are high definition with 720p resolution, a contrast ratio of 12,000:1**.

- iPod is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

- iPod is not included. The dock that is included within the package is only applicable for VIERA LCD X1 series.

* 37" and 32" models only. 26" model has two HDMI inputs and 19" model has one.

   ** Except for 19" model.    About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company  

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE:PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic products is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: Jamie_Hodin@nyc.cohnwolfe.com
http://www.panasonic.com/environmental/ecoideas.asp

Source: Panasonic

CONTACT: Chris De Maria, +1-201-348-7182, demariac@us.panasonic.com; or
Jeff Samuels, +1-201-392-4571, samuelsj@us.panasonic.com, both of Panasonic;
or Blayne Murphy of Cohn & Wolfe for Panasonic, +1-212-798-9763,
blayne.murphy@cohnwolfe.com

Web Site: http://www.panasonic.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment