Seven New Logitech Webcams Include Logitech Vid Video-Calling Software

Posted on July 29, 2009 by Ladan Khamsepoor in Digital Home, News and Announcements with 46 Comments on Seven New Logitech Webcams Include Logitech Vid Video-Calling Software

Hi, I’m Ladan Khamsepoor, Sr. Product Marketing Manager in the Video business unit. I’ve been with Logitech for almost four years now. When I’m not thinking about work, or opportunities to make webcams a part of everyday life, I like to get lost in a good book or hit the mountains with rock-climbing friends.

My grandmother is 90 years old and is the only parent I’ve known. I visit her every 3 to 4 months, but it is not nearly enough. Every time I see her, I realize how quickly we are both getting older. I wish I could see her smile more often and be more immersed in her life. She always has stories about her day, her friends and what she is cooking and baking. Those stories bring back many good memories.

Today we announced seven new webcams, which all include Logitech Vid, our recently released software that makes video calling free, fast and easy so you can stay connected with friends and family. The new webcams include the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000, Logitech Portable Webcam C905, Logitech Webcam C600, Logitech Webcam C500, Logitech Webcam C300, Logitech Webcam C250 and the Logitech Webcam C200. There is something for everyone.

To me, these webcams aren’t just fun tech gadgets. They’re much more personal – a portal that can bridge the distance between my grandmother and me like no telephone ever could.

I encourage you to dust off the old webcam, or better yet, get a new one, set it up and walk into that portal to experience a new way of connecting with the people you miss. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Author

Ladan Khamsepoor

Sr. Product Marketing Manager, Video Business

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46 comments

  • I have the same question. I saw a Quickcam Pro 9000 at Future Shop today (in Toronto) with the same model # (PN 960-000139) as what Logitech’s Cdn website shows for the new Webcam Pro 9000. Could someone from Logitech please clarify the difference, and what is new about it? I’m considering a webcam purchase soon. Thanks a lot.

    • Hi Parm and Darren,

      Great question. There are a few subtle changes:
      – While the QuickCam Pro 9000 offers VGA-quality video at 30 frames per second (high-quality video) on Skype, we made adjustments to ensure the updated Webcam Pro 9000 can perform up to VGA-quality video at 30 FPS on any video application, including Logitech Vid.
      – The Webcam Pro 9000 was modified to be capable of adjusting to widescreen format and record 720 pixels (1280×720) at up to 30 FPS.
      – Finally, software is no longer required for RightLight. Instead, we\’ve built it into the device, so right out of the box, you\’ll get the best image quality possible, regardless of harsh or dim lighting conditions. Perhaps too much information, but we also adjusted the firmware to make sure that RightLight engages only when necessary.

      All the best, Ladan

  • Thanks a lot Laden. Great information. Sounds like the ‘Webcam’ model is the way to go.

    I’m still confused by the part number issue I mentioned above. I also checked Newegg.com. Similarly, they show part number PN 960-000048 as Quickcam Pro, while Logitech.com (USA) shows this as the part number for Webcam Pro. In fact, Logitech.com shows the same PN number for both models.

    To make sure I get the new ‘Webcam 9000’ model, maybe it would be safer to order directly from Logitech? Alternatively, since this is a new announcement, perhaps I should just wait a bit until retailers clarify their offerings. If you have any thoughts, please feel free to share.

    Thanks again.

  • I read the specs of the Webcam 9000 Pro and was impressed enough to buy it online. After reading this, I’ve realized that I ordered the Quickcam 9000 Pro. They look identical, are both named “Pro 9000”, and even have the same part number. I feel ripped off! The biggest reason I ordered this was because it’s supposed to record in 720p widescreen. Apparently, the one I ordered DOES NOT. Sounds to me like a dirty little marketing trick, to move the remaining Quickcam Pro 9000s off the shelves. I feel taken advantage of.

  • Just curious:
    What happened with the C600 ? I can’t find it on the Logitech site, although I might have seen it there a couple of days ago 😉
    I just want to buy my second Logitech camera, but don’t know which one to choose: C500 or C600.
    I have just bought my first camera one week ago, to find out in august that a completely new product line has been released 🙂
    Cheers.

    • Hi Marosy,

      I see the C600 on our site (in the U.S.), but product availability varies by country. The C500 has a 1.3 megapixel sensor and the C600 has a 2.0 megapixel sensor.

      All the best, Ladan

    • Hi again, Craig,

      I misspoke. The Webcam Pro 9000 does feature a 4x digital zoom that\’s in the software. Sorry about the confusion — I thought the question was regarding the mechanical face tracking feature, which is only available on the Orbit webcam.

      All the best, Ladan

    • Hi Oliver

      Our current webcam line-up does not include a wireless webcam. Providing the best video-calling experience is our number one priority and to that end, we\’re always looking for ways to further improve the experience. Whether it\’s with Carl Zeiss lens, easy-to-use video calling software, or wired vs. wireless webcams, you never know what new feature will pop up in our webcams. So stay tuned!

      Best, Ladan

  • What is the difference between “Webcam Pro 9000” and “Webcam Pro 9000 for Business”? I’m having a hard time finding this information.

  • What is the difference if any between Quickcam Pro for Notebooks and the Webcam Pro C905.
    Different sellers sell these under different name but with part no. 960000045. Also Logitech US has it as wecam pro C905 while in their UK site it is under the quickcam Pro for notebooks. Parts no. are not the same US has it as 960000045 and the UK as 960000047. Can anyone carify matters?

    • Hi 82little,

      The Portable Webcam C905 replaces the QuickCam Pro for Notebooks. While the QuickCam Pro for Notebooks offers VGA-quality video at 30 frames per second (high-quality video) on Skype, we made adjustments to ensure the updated Portable Webcam C905 can perform up to VGA-quality video at 30 FPS on any video application, including Logitech Vid. Secondly, the Portbale Webcam C905 was modified to be capable of adjusting to widescreen format and record 720 pixels (1280×720) at up to 30 FPS. Finally, software is no longer required for RightLight technology. Instead, we’ve built it into the device, so right out of the box, you’ll get the best image quality possible, regardless of harsh or dim lighting conditions. We also adjusted the firmware to make sure that RightLight engages only when necessary. Like the QuickCam Pro for Notebooks, the Portable Webcam C905 features an easy-to-transport design so that you can make a video call no matter where you are.

      Best, Ladan

  • Quick question: both my parents and I have Quickcam Ultra Vision webcams, which we use with Skype on fast broadband connections. If we upgrade to the Webcam Pro 9000, will we get better quality video?

    Thanks for the info…

    • Hi Peter,

      While the Logitech QuickCam UltraVision is a great webcam, we have made several improvements to the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 that would help provide improved image quality (depending on your broadband connection). The Webcam Pro 9000 has a true 2.0 megapixel glass lens. The Webcam Pro 9000 also features Carl Zeiss optics and built-in autofocus to objects will remain in focus near and far.

      Best, Ladan

  • Like most people I am at a loss as to why anyone would release a “new” webcam with a name virtually identical to an older model which is so obviously going to confuse people and cause a lot of angry customers who get the wrong device, such as the person above.

    I am in UK and cannot find any mention of the WEBCAM pro 9000 ANYWHERE! I can find the c905 which apparently is exactly the same but is portable apparently, and the other ‘C’ models, and plenty of quickcam pro 9000’s. Can someone from logitech confirm what is going on with availability of the webcam pro 9000 in europe?

    If I cant get confirmation (having tried several times now). I only need a new webcam because you will not provide a windows 7 driver for my quickcam pro 4000, If I cant get hold of a webcam pro 9000 right now, then I’ll go buy a webcam from a more reliable manufacturer.

    thanks

  • Hi Ladan,

    I had a quick question….How is the the hardware (including firmware) in the Webcam 9000 different from the Quickcam Vision Pro? From what I understand, the Vision Pro used to be the only Logitech model that had Rightlight built in along with having built in auto focus….all being controlled in the camera and required no drivers to use. Is this true for the new Webcam 9000? Is it an enhanced version of the Quickcam Vision Pro? Can you use the Webcam 9000 in a Windows system without installing the drivers? Are there any features the Vision Pro has that the Webcam 9000 does not have?

    Thanks for your help,

    L8trG8tr

    • The Logitech QuickCam Vision Pro is the only device in our portfolio that has Autofocus built-in and does not require driver or software installation. The components on the QuickCam Vision Pro are different from Webcam Pro 9000 hence why we charge a premium as adding Autofocus on device requires additional memory. Vision Pro for Mac is a great UVC device optimized for users who do not wish to install additional software and are satisfied with basic high-quality and performance of a webcam.

      While we have applied some of the learning of Vision Pro into the new Webcam Pro 9000 such as better right-light performance without requiring software, software installation provides users with additional Logitech features such as AF, noise suppression and video effects as well controls to turn things on and off as needed. The Webcam Pro 9000 also has intelligent face tracking which is a software feature and enhances the users\’ experience when using the widescreen mode.

      Basically the user can directly connect Webcam Pro 9000 without software install, however certain important features such as Autofocus and Rightsound will not work.

      For Windows OS user with high-performance expectations, we recommend the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 and the Logitech Portable Webcam C905.

      Best. – Ladan

  • Hi Ladan,

    Thanks for the update. I just installed the new software yesterday for my Logitech Quickcam Pro 9000. It’s a nice interface and I like how it has the new features for HD recording.

    I tried recording in HD at 1280 x 720 and on the screen it looks like it has recorded it. Though when I do post production and play it back it only plays in in 800 x 450. Any idea why it’s doing that? If I want to use HD 1280 x 720 do I need to upgrade my hardware or is it something to do with the software?

    Thanks.

    • Hi Tyrone,
      Hmmm…you\’ve asked an interesting question. I apologize for the delayed response and I did some testing myself to check the Webcam Pro 9000 and LWS 1.0 combination to capture a video at 1280×720. The file and property information is correct from what I can see and I wasn\’t replicating your issue.

      From your comment, it sounds like you are using a \’post processing software\’ and then playing it back. What type of software is being used to \’post process\’? And could you check the original file properties? [Right click on the original file and select properties\\details tab ] Otherwise it doesn\’t seem to be a device or pc issue.

      If this doesn\’t help, I may need to direct you to customer support for more assistance.
      -Ladan

  • 30 fps on “Logitech Vid.” That’s fine to me. But does Logitech’s Webcam Pro 9000 explicitly also support Skype’s high quality video? Yes? No? Maybe so? It’s not listed on skype!

    Thx!

  • Great! Thank you! But why don’t you put this feature in you advertisement?

    And please consider to update the German webpage. As “old Europe” is treated a bit stepmotherly, I often have my brother send me all the newest stuff from the US.

  • I just bought the Business Procam 9000. But it sounds like the Webcam 9000 is ‘new and improved.’ Can I ‘flash’ the Procam or do I need to return it and buy the webcam to get the new features.

    Also, you mentioned that the 9000 can zoom. How do I zoom while in Skype or recording?

    Cheers,
    Paul in Los Angeles

  • I have just spent hours on the phone with Logitech sales and technical support. I represent more confusion and frustration between ordering Webcam pro 9000 on your web site and receiving quickcam pro 9000. I have been told the cameras are the same but there is some new Logitech software with webcam pro (LWS 1.0) that is more branded toward Logitech and supports VID. My reason for buying the new camera was that I thought it supported 720P and 30 FPS at the same time. Tech support told me it did not. Your above answers seem to say it does. I am using the cameras with the Vidyo application. Sure appreciate some clarity on this.

  • I returned the Procam 9000 and bought two Webcam 9000s from Amazon.

    I am still waiting to hear how to zoom.

    • Hi Paul,

      In the webcam “vertical control bar” that pops up when your webcam is plugged in and Logitech webcam software is installed:

      – Click on the settings icon – if you have the latest version of software, it’s the fifth icon down
      – Click on “zoom” in the upper right corner

      Best, Ladan

  • Ladan,

    Nice to hear that the Webcam Pro 9000 can do 30FPS at 720p.

    So, what are the differentiators between that and the new Tandberg USB HD cameras that cost $399 (and I believe use the Samsung chipset)?

    I would MUCH rather recommend the “good enough” 720p at 30FPS from logitech at under $100 each to (likely) better optics and video Tandberg units at $399 each (with a ten at a time purchase minimum).

    I searched on Amazon – and the new Webcam Pro 9000 shows not available. Has it shipped in quantities?

    Thanks,

    Gary

    (And what’s with the naming? This will cause mass confusion – see above 🙂

  • Love the way you are thinking…and run my business with this in mine…and family 4000 km away in a tropical islacd of cairns Australia….but then l update to windows 7…which is a full release version…and find none of the camera’s work…microsoft has blocked quickcam and assocated software due to incompadialbility….l think nooooooo…logitech supports it awesome products better than that….after all my cameras are awesome……to my suprise lolgitecg has become a telco……excuse…after excuse…after axcuse…..tell me what chose do l have…..to wait…and go without my life changing video cam….me thinks not…disappointing isn’t it…..and l am sad! you should be too?

    • Hi Chris,

      Your best bet is to uninstall all previous versions of our webcam software. Then (making sure you have an active Internet connection), plug in the camera. Windows should provide the best compatible software.

      You should also check the download support pages (www.logitech.com/support), or manually check your software for an update by right clicking on the Quickcam icon in the system tray (bottom right).

      Best, Ladan

  • Skype High Quality Video – what does that mean and what is the diference – model S7500 compared to model S5500. I need very fast answer. Thank you in advance.

    By the way I have Quick Cam 9000 Pro. I am very happy. My question is for non profit organization. they havent got enough money and every single dolar is important. They want my advice what to buy. At the end we have two winers S5500 S7500. Depends only whats the diference with this Skype High Quality Video.

    Excuse me for my bad English

  • Hi Logitech,

    I found the new WebCam Pro 9000 supports 1280×720 HD video which is perfect matching the new HD video conferencing systems. Currently we are using Quickcam Orbit AF in our conference room because its nice motorized pan/tilt function. When can I expect a 1280×720 version for Orbit AF model ?

  • I use new software fomr Logitech and update it.
    Have now Deluxe Pro for notebooks-have there option for record video in 1280×720

    but it doesnt write it too as wrote Tyrone!
    It works after in 800×450 (SVGA) thats all
    If you told that it models (C905) use identical hardware… why dont them to work as the same – thats ist first and SECOND- work properly, if option is 1280×720 – must recod as it!

    Ps. Because as I can see – when you just see at yourself in window logitech software- it seems like 1280×720.
    The difference with 960×720 is the some corners are dropped.

    =================================================
    Tyrone Shum | August 19th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
    Hi Ladan,
    Thanks for the update. I just installed the new software yesterday for my Logitech Quickcam Pro 9000. It’s a nice interface and I like how it has the new features for HD recording.
    I tried recording in HD at 1280 x 720 and on the screen it looks like it has recorded it. Though when I do post production and play it back it only plays in in 800 x 450. Any idea why it’s doing that? If I want to use HD 1280 x 720 do I need to upgrade my hardware or is it something to do with the software?
    Thanks.

    lkhamsepoor | August 20th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
    Hi Tyrone,
    Hmmm…you\’ve asked an interesting question. I apologize for the delayed response and I did some testing myself to check the Webcam Pro 9000 and LWS 1.0 combination to capture a video at 1280×720. The file and property information is correct from what I can see and I wasn\’t replicating your issue.
    From your comment, it sounds like you are using a \’post processing software\’ and then playing it back. What type of software is being used to \’post process\’? And could you check the original file properties? [Right click on the original file and select properties\\details tab ] Otherwise it doesn\’t seem to be a device or pc issue.
    If this doesn\’t help, I may need to direct you to customer support for more assistance.
    -Ladan

    • Hi sarah,

      Please contact customer support (www.logitech.com/support). They should be able to help you.

      -Ladan

  • Do you know of any way to record video phone calls, including the video? I’d appreciate feedback– johnfromjackson(at)gmail.com

  • Ladan … I saw where you indicate that it is not possible to record video calls using Vid. However, I think you can record a regular video but I don’t know how to do that. Can you give me some point by point instructions on how to record using the Pro 9000 webcam and the Vid software?

    If one can record just a regular webcam video, I wonder why a video call can’t be recorded.

    thanks for the help.

    Steve

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