The first two digital recording binoculars - the DEV-5 and DEV-3 - will be released in early November and will let users record scenes in full-HD video in 2D and 3D.

Both models offer a 10x optical zoom, however, the most advance binoculars - the DEV-5 - also sports a digital zoom of up to 20x.

"Unlike traditional binoculars, electronic autofocus keeps your subject sharply resolved at all times, even while it's moving," adds Sony in a statement released to BJP ahead of today's announcement. "A comfortably positioned dial also allows fingertip adjustment of manual focus. It's ideal for focusing selectively on your subject, rather than overhanging branches or other obstructions in your field of view," according to Sony.

The electronic autofocus is said to allow the binoculars to focus on subjects as close as 1cm away when recording in 2D.

The binoculars use two of Sony's G Lens optics, as well as two Exmor R CMOS sensors and two BIONZ imaging processors, which allow the device to record and display separate images for the user's left and right eyes.

While the binoculars are clearly marketed for the production of HD movies, Sony UK's imaging technology field sales manager Paul Genge tells BJP that users can also shoot images at a maximum resolution of 7.1 megapixels (in 4:3 format) and 5.3 megapixels at 16:9.

Sony has also added its optical SteadyShot stabilisation system for "clear and stable" images, even when recording at high magnifications, claims Sony.

While both models are said to be dust-proof, Sony has warned that they are not weather-sealed and shouldn't be used in rainy conditions without protection.

Official pricing information has yet to be communicated, but, according to Genge, the DEV-5 will retail around the £2300 price mark, while the DEV-3 will retail at £1800.

For more information, visit www.sony.co.uk.