If you’ve found the previous Vado HD pocket camcorders just a tad lacking, you might want to consider the company’s newly announced 3rd gen model. The 3rd Gen Vado HD features a couple of very interesting developments compared with its predecessors. Gone is the unsightly protruding lens that sticks out like a sore thumb. The camera is now flush with the chassis and will respond better in low light or brightly lit conditions with manual exposure adjustments. There’s also an external microphone support for a better audio recording.The new Creative Vado HD also offers headphone output so users can privately listen to your footage or output videos on non-HDMI displays via an analog AV cable. The built-in Motion Detection Mode on the other hand, enables users to program the camera to begin recording as soon as motion is detected. Another important feature worth mentioning is the HD CMOS (1280 x 720) sensor, which allows users to record outstanding videos in 720p high-definition quality. Record instantly with the one-click recording button and at a quick switch, change to photo mode to capture picture-perfect stills!

Users can easily recharge the battery via the flexible, pull-out USB cable, with no additional cables required. Extra batteries and a wall plug-in battery charger are also available. It also helps you in posting your videos and pictures onto YouTube, Photobucket or Box.net with the built-in Vado Central 3.0 software. The surprise comes from a reduction in storage. Previous Vado HD models had 8GB on-board, but the new model only has 4GB. Nevertheless, it holds up to 120 minutes of widescreen HD-quality videos or 7,000 HD quality stills.

The 3rd Gen Vado HD will be available mid-December for $180 in five glossier than ever colors: black, white, blue, purple, or red.