On Thursday, Logitech announced an update to its free video calling service – it will now place video calls in high-definition.
The new Logitech Vid HD will offer 720p video calls between users who have HD webcams. Logitech also announced new HD webcams ranging from between $40 to $100, and stated one more piece of info about their upcoming Google TV: it will let you make HD video calls on your HDTV.
The new Logitech web cameras will offer at least 720p captures. The Logitech DH Pro Webcam C910 will be capable of capturing HD video at 1080p (though video calls over Vid HD will be limited to 720p). Since it's the new flagship HD webcam, it will feature a Carl Zeiss lens and have two microphones for stereo audio (supported via Vid calls) and will sell for $99.99.
The other HD webcams will be limited to 720p captures. The Logitech C510 will do 720p, and will have a mount that can spin 360-degrees; Logitech says it's so you can "swivel the webcam around and include more people on your video calls and recordings." The C510 will sell for $59.99. Less expensive 720p webcams will also be available; Logitech will sell its HD Webcam C310 and Logitech HD Webcam C270 for $49.99 and $39.99, respectively. All of the webcams will be available later this month.
Logitech also announced more information about their upcoming Google TV product – referred to as the Logitech Companion Box, though this will not be the official name when it goes on sale in the fall. The product plugs into your Internet connection, cable box and HDTV so that you can browse content from your TV and web via a user interface designed by Google.
On Thursday, Logitech revealed that this product will be compatible with the company's HD webcams and come preloaded with Logitech HD Vid for HD video calling on your HDTV. Similarly, in January Panasonic announced HDTVs that offer HD video calling via Skype. Logitech also said they will be releasing a Logitech HD Vid application for smartphones in 2010.
