Canon U.S.A. Inc. announced Tuesday that a free Software Developers Kit (SDK) will be released this July to allow Mac OS X software developers to create custom applications to remotely control the Canon XL2 Mini-DV camcorder. A Windows XP-based SDK is available now. The SDK allows software to control all of the XL2’s functions, such as switching frame rates, adjusting color gain and managing white balance controls.
The XL2 is a FireWire-based camcorder aimed at video professionals. The camcorder features interchangeable lenses, optical image stabilization, dual 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratio shooting formats, variable frame rate (60i/30p/24p) control and more.