Panasonic outfits families with HD lifestyle

Panasonic announced yesterday it is looking for more families to participate in its “Living in HD program,” a study of American families living “living in high definition.” The company currently has 30 families involved in the program but will increase that number to 60 in 2009 and eventually 100.

In the program, families give feedback to Panasonic about equipment functionality, design and use. Families are given a full HD setup that includes a 50″ VIERA Plasma Internet-enabled HDTV, HD Camcorder, LUMIX digital camera, network camera, Blu-ray Disc player, Toughbook mobile computer, photo printer, home theater system and Nintendo Wii console. Why a Wii I’m not sure, not high-definition by any means.

All types of families are invited to apply, and the term “family” is used loosely. Panasonic has said that groups of co-workers are encouraged to apply. When applying, entries must explain why they should be selected and what makes them special or unique.

Throughout the program, Panasonic will be evaluating the families’ experiences to understand how their lives as they are immersed in high definition technology. Can you say “big brother?” Yes, I knew you could.

If you are interested in applying go to http://www.panasonic.com/livinginhd/register.htm. To find out more information about the program visit the home page at http://www.LivinginHD.com.