Panasonic Japan has announced a new video-conferencing system that will enable users to communicate in High Definition-quality video. Hoping to establish a new tier of sophistication, the company says its KX-VC500 system will be able to handle 1920x1080i resolutions with speeds of up to 8Mb/s.


The KXVC500 will be capable of delivering HD-quality content both ways, though it will need a speedy enough net connection for doing so. The system will be sold standalone with a remote control, so you can pick the HD camera and display of your choosing. Display connectivity includes dual HDMI ports and an RGB interface.

The KX-VC500 is set to hit the Japanese market only next October, with no available information on pricing. I wouldn't be surprised if they try and take you to the bank with it though, given their recently announced $800 portable Blu-ray player.