First Skype HD Webcams Announced

In Store Solutions has launched two new Skype Certified HD webcams, the FREETALK TALK-7170 HD PRO and the TALK-7181 HD PRO PLUS. Both webcams enable true high definition video (720p) when used together with Skype 4.2 for Windows. In Store Solutions also launched the FREETALK HQ Everyman Webcam TALK-7140, a new, distinctive and value-priced webcam that allows users to access High Quality Video using Skype at an unmatched low price.

The high definition video capabilities of the FREETALK HD webcams are powered by an onboard chip that eliminates the need for additional processing by the computer running the Skype application, enabling superior video conversations between people.

Targeted at consumers, the HD PRO comes with two built-in microphones and is suitable for one-to-one high-definition video calling over Skype. The HD PRO PLUS is the high-definition solution perfect for road warriors or businesses that are looking for low-cost videoconferencing. The four built-in professional cardioid microphones enable a four meter audio pickup, which, together with Skype's beamforming algorithm, deliver crystal clear voice quality and help improve echo canceling performance.


The FREETALK HD webcams use H.264 video compression technology to create the most pristine video quality available today, when used with a fast broadband connection (800 Kbps symmetrical bandwidth or higher) and a computer with a 1.8 Ghz dual-core processor. For HD video calls in both directions, there should ideally be a similar set up on both ends. The FREETALK HD PRO webcam costs $120 and the FREETALK HD PRO PLUS costs $140. Both webcams will be available as of March 2010 for quick and efficient purchase through the Skype Shop, which is run by In Store Solutions.

In Store Solutions also worked with Skype to develop the FREETALK HQ Everyman Webcam. Delivering true VGA video, this webcam outperforms the competition in its price category and joins only a handful of other webcams to have been certified by Skype to deliver against the High Quality Video requirements. FREETALK has, once again, brought to market a best-of-breed Everyman product, at a price far below products of comparable quality.

The FREETALK HQ Everyman Webcam is available for immediate purchase through the Skype Shop. The revolutionary low price of $40 follows the lead of its stable mate, the FREETALK Everyman headset, currently available for $23, which has already sold more than 100,000 units in four months and is expected to sell more than 250,000 units in 2010 via the Skype Shop.

Product specifications for the HD Webcams include:
• 5 megapixel HD sensor
• High performance optical lens
• 24-bit true color depth
• Auto Exposure and Auto White Balance
• Manual focus capability for personalized focal setting
• HD video encoding at resolutions up to 1280x720 at 30 frames per second in H.264 format
• Less network bandwidth and CPU cycles required for HD video calls
• Two or four professional directional cardioid microphones together with Skype's beamforming algorithm provide crystal clear voice quality
• Skype Certified encoding camera to enable HD-quality Skype video calling on a PC
• Universal clip enabling attachment to a wide range of displays and monitors


Product specifications for the HQ Webcam include:
• High performance optical lens
• 24-bit true color depth
• Auto Exposure and Auto White Balance
• Auto Focus capability
• Supports resolution up to 640x480 through Skype (true VGA)
• Skype Certified High Quality camera
• Universal clip enabling attachment to a wide range of displays and monitors

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