Kodak seems to have finally left the film world behind for good (for better or worse for film buffs) and engaging hi-def in a big way. The longtime "film maker" (literally) has already added a 720p pocket cam (Zi6) to its latest line of HD products—and is now rolling out its Zi8, which it says will be capable of capturing 1080p video images.

The new compact video cam, Kodak said, comes with built-in "image stabilization" technology and (sort of opposite of a digital still camera that also can capture video) has the ability to take still photos (5 MP) in an HD-like 16:9 aspect ratio. The 1080p mini-unit eventually is expected to be released globally this fall with a likely MSRP of about $180, according to the Tech Herald of Australia.

Kodak said the Zi8 will provide 128 MB memory (with memory expansion options via microSD and SDHC cards), external connectivity via an HDMI-out port, an external microphone jack, and a flip-style USB connector. Color options will include black, aqua and raspberry.