JVC Professional Video has added social media features to its CONNECTED CAM 500- and 900-Series camcorders with its latest firmware update. As the first camera manufacturer to provide streaming directly from the camera, JVC’s 500-Series cameras now include SNS video streaming with vertical and square guidelines on the viewfinder to ensure an ideal image capture on a variety of platforms and devices. The company is adding setup functionality, allowing GY-HC500 users to stream to Facebook Live and YouTube Live with one click. The firmware also incorporates RTMPS protocol for its GY-HC900 cameras.

With this update, JVC’s 500-Series cameras can also produce streams in vertical (606×1080 and 404×720) and square (1080×1080 and 720×720) formats. This includes not just safe markers, but actual streams with vertical and square resolutions. Previously available on the JVC GY-HM250, the Easy Setup Facebook Live feature can now also be utilized by GY-HC500 users for real-time broadcasting on individual, business and media pages. This allows users to stream in seconds versus having to type in and adjust a range of settings beforehand. The new firmware also incorporates an Easy Setup YouTube Live feature, which not only provides direct-to-YouTube capability, but also enables users to schedule streaming with a specified start time.