Panasonic has announced a new lens for its new Panasonic Lumix GH2 camera at Photokina 2010 that is capable of capturing 3D pictures and movies for you to play back on a 3D-enabled television or computer.

Okay, so we don't normally write about lenses here on Pocket-lint, but this is interesting so sit up and pay attention.

The world's first interchangeable 3D lens, the H-FT012, features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses that are then processed with a 3D image processing system.

Previously, 3D shooting with an interchangeable lens system camera was possible only by using panorama systems or by combining two lenses and two CCDs, something that we've already seen with the Fujifilm W1 and W3 cameras, however, Panasonic, as you might expect, suggest that these systems are "not ideal and have difficulty capturing moving objects."

It's answer, the H-FT012, just so happens to allow instant 3D shooting (35mm camera equivalent: 65mm), without time lag between left and right images - even when shooting objects in motion.

"Panasonic's delivery of the world's first interchangeable 3D lens speaks to our commitment to leading the 3D era," said Darin Pepple, senior product manager in the imaging department at Panasonic.

The Lumix G 12.5mm / F12 (H-FT012) will cost $249.95. We are waiting on confirmation of UK pricing.

Panasonic has confirmed to Pocket-lint it will only work on the GH2 and the G2, as the GH1 won't be powerful enough.

PHOTOS: Panasonic Lumix GH2 hands on