It's one of two new Sonys announced at CES 2010 to feature HD movie capture capable of full HD 1,920x1,080 (60i). (The other is the ultracompact TX7.) It has a stereo mic, too, located right above the lens. You'll notice the V is missing from the model number on the camera. This was a preproduction sample that wasn't labeled properly; there is no none-V version.

It's pretty thick, but again, considering the size of the lens and other components, it's remarkably compact.

You can see the compass and GPS marker on the top right of the screen. Unfortunately, there were no GPS satellites in the Las Vegas Convention Center for me to test the capabilities with. Also note the simple control panel and the direct movie record button.

The camera supports TransferJet, a wireless system for transferring photos to other TransferJet-enabled cameras or computers. You'll need to buy a TransferJet Memory Stick, to use it, however.

The camera supports HDMI output, but it needs an adapter to do so.

The HX5V uses one of Sony's high-quality G lenses. I wish the aperture was wider than f3.5, but you can't have everything.

Just a quick view of the entire top including the fully loaded shooting mode dial.