Category: Video / Photo

  • DJI Mini 5 Pro: Lightweight Drone with Impressive Battery Life

    DJI Mini 5 Pro: Lightweight Drone with Impressive Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched the Mavic 4 Pro after a year of leaks and rumors.
    2. A new Mini series drone, likely the Mini 5 Pro, is expected to be announced soon.
    3. The Mini 5 Pro’s details have been listed with the FCC, with a confidentiality agreement until May 27, 2025.
    4. The Mini 5 Pro will feature a larger 33.5 Wh battery and 65 W charging capabilities, improving over the Mini 4 Pro’s specifications.
    5. The Mini 5 Pro’s launch may happen sooner than expected, despite no official announcement yet.


    DJI has unveiled the Mavic 4 Pro after nearly a year filled with leaks and speculations. Reliable sources suggest that a new Mini series drone is on the horizon. For instance, the X account Hakasushi noted earlier this month that the Mini 5 Pro is set to debut in September, which usually coincides with DJI’s updates to its Osmo Action series.

    Upcoming Mini Series Details

    However, a recent listing from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) shows that DJI might be planning to introduce the Mini 4 Pro replacement (currently priced at $1,399 on Amazon) much sooner than anticipated. At the moment, DJI has engaged the FCC in a short-term confidentiality agreement that lasts until May 27, 2025. After this date, the FCC will be able to release both internal and external images, along with the user manual for the Mini 5 Pro.

    Timing of the Launch

    It appears that the Mini 5 Pro likely won’t be launched next week without any official announcement. The existence of these documents, some of which date back nearly six months, indicates that DJI may not wait until late summer or early fall to refresh its Mini series with a new product. Nonetheless, the FCC has already verified the Mini 5 Pro’s battery specifications and charging features ahead of time.

    Battery and Charging Improvements

    As shown in the first screenshot below, the Mini 5 Pro will be equipped with a 33.5 Wh battery (7.16V/4,680 mAh), an upgrade from the Mini 4 Pro’s 18.96 Wh, or 28.4 Wh with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. This new, larger battery will be complemented by a leap to 65 W charging capabilities, facilitated by DJI’s 65W Portable Charger. This charger is also designed for the Air 3 and Mavic 3 series, and it should allow the Mini 5 Pro to charge significantly faster than the 30 W offered to its predecessor.

    Source:
    Link


  • Fujifilm X-E5 Leak: Upcoming APS-C Camera Launching Soon

    Fujifilm X-E5 Leak: Upcoming APS-C Camera Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fujifilm X-E5 is expected to be announced in June 2025, earlier than previously thought.
    2. The camera will likely retain a retro-style design, similar to its predecessor and the X100VI.
    3. The X-E5 is expected to feature the X-Processor 5 and the X-Trans V sensor.
    4. New control schemes, such as a film simulation dial, may be included to enhance user experience for beginners and mid-range photographers.
    5. More specifications are anticipated to emerge as the launch date approaches, following recent leaks.


    We have previously discussed the Fujifilm X-E5, with our latest updates suggesting that the release of this new compact APS-C camera was approaching. Now, thanks to a recent leak from Fuji Rumors, it appears that our assumptions about a near launch might just be spot on.

    Launch Timeline

    The leak indicates that the Fujifilm X-E5 is set to launch—or likely be announced—in June 2025, which is quite a bit sooner than what many expected. However, not much information has been disclosed regarding the camera, meaning that any specifications are still just educated guesses at this point.

    Design and Features

    Drawing from Fujifilm’s past patterns, we can make some educated guesses about the upcoming model. For instance, if they adhere to their usual naming structure, the X-E5 will likely feature the same retro-style design as its predecessor, which it will also share with the X100VI. Furthermore, it’s safe to assume that this new camera will come equipped with the same X-Processor 5 found in the Fujifilm X100VI and the more budget-friendly X-T50, which is currently priced at $1,499.99 on Amazon with a kit lens.

    Sensor and Functionality

    Considering that Fujifilm’s latest sensor is the X-Trans V, we can also reasonably deduce that the X-E5 will utilize that same sensor. Historically, the X-E series has been a more affordable alternative to the X-Pro lineup, yet both camera series along with the X100 line have usually been quite similar in terms of features. This suggests that the X-E5 will also include the 5-axis IBIS from the current X100VI.

    Control Schemes

    Fujifilm has been trying out new control layouts recently, such as the film simulation dial seen on the X-T50 or the minimalist design and diptych system in the X Half. Given this trend, it wouldn’t be shocking to see a similar feature incorporated into the X-E5. The film simulation dial appears to be the most probable addition, especially since the target audience of the X-E5 is beginners and mid-range photographers who seek a distinctive shooting experience.

    Conclusion

    Of course, all of this remains speculative, but it seems we won’t have to wait too long for the official announcement. It’s likely that more specifications for the X-E5 will emerge through leaks as the launch date approaches. Initially, it seemed like Fujifilm might aim for a 2026 release for the X-E5, but the upcoming announcement and release of the Ricoh GR IV might have sped up Fujifilm’s timeline for their next compact APS-C camera.

    Source:
    Link

  • Sony Launches GP-VPT3 Tripod Grip for Cameras

    Sony Launches GP-VPT3 Tripod Grip for Cameras

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony GP-VPT3 is a compact tripod designed for mirrorless and point & shoot cameras, also serving as a vlogging grip.
    2. It features a detachable Bluetooth remote (RMT-VP2) with a 33 ft. (10 m) range for remote camera operation, including shutter and autofocus controls.
    3. The tripod allows for 360° rotation and tilting capabilities, with a weight capacity of 53 oz (1.5 kg) and resistance to dust and moisture.
    4. Folded dimensions are 49.5 x 173.0 x 39.8 mm (2 x 6 7/8 x 1 5/8 in.) and it weighs 179 g (6.4 oz.).
    5. The GP-VPT3 will be available in June for $159.99, and the Sony RX100 VII is recommended for pairing.


    Sony has unveiled the GP-VPT3, a compact tripod that works with its mirrorless and point & shoot camera models. This versatile tripod can also function as a grip for vlogging while you’re on the move.

    Remote Control Features

    The GP-VPT3 includes a detachable Bluetooth remote, the RMT-VP2, allowing users to operate their cameras from a distance. It has a range of 33 ft. (10 m) and runs on a single CR2032 lithium coin battery. The remote features buttons for shutter, record, C1, and autofocus. Additionally, a rocker is available to manage lens zoom or focus, depending on the mode selected. There are two adjustable zoom speeds supported by the rocker.

    Camera Movement and Design

    When a camera is attached, it can rotate 360° and tilt from -90° to +80° in grip mode, and -90° to +40° in tripod mode. This sturdy tripod is designed to resist dust and moisture, and it can hold cameras weighing up to 53 oz (1.5 kg). Its operating temperature spans from -10 °C to +50 °C (14 °F to 122 °F).

    Size and Availability

    When folded, the GP-VPT3 has dimensions of 49.5 x 173.0 x 39.8 mm (2 x 6 7/8 x 1 5/8 in.) and has a weight of 179 g (6.4 oz.). The tripod grip is set to be available starting in June for a price of $159.99. For anyone interested in a great compact camera to pair with the GP-VPT3, the Sony RX100 VII can be found on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

  • Ricoh GR IV Compact Digital Camera Launch: Features and Specs

    Ricoh GR IV Compact Digital Camera Launch: Features and Specs

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ricoh GR IV features a 28 mm f/2.8 lens for clear, portable photography with manual focus options.
    2. It has a 25.74 MP CMOS APS-C sensor and an extensive ISO range of 100 to 204,800 for varied lighting conditions.
    3. The camera includes a 5-axis image stabilizer to reduce blur, enabling sharp images even at slower shutter speeds.
    4. It supports 14-bit RAW and JPEG formats for image storage, with video recording capabilities at 1080p 60fps.
    5. The GR IV is set to launch in Fall 2025, with a later version featuring a highlight diffusion filter, while the GR III HDF is currently available.


    Ricoh has introduced the GR IV compact digital camera, the newest addition to the GR series that first appeared in 2013. This camera offers a wide range of manual controls, allowing users to be creative with their settings.

    Design and Lens Features

    The well-known body design includes a 28 mm f/2.8 lens, keeping the camera slim and portable. This lens consists of seven elements, including three aspheric lenses, ensuring clear images from edge to edge. With dual contrast and phase detection autofocus, plus face and eye detection, it makes capturing everyday moments reliable. For street photographers who prefer not to rely on autofocus, they can set their focus manually between 0.3 m (0.98 ft.) and infinity. The macro mode allows focusing as close as 6 cm (2.36 in.).

    Sensor and Performance

    Equipped with a 25.74 MP CMOS APS-C sensor that measures 23.3 x 15.5 mm (0.92 x 0.61 in.), the camera boasts an impressive ISO range from 100 to 204,800. Shutter speeds can be adjusted from 1/4000 of a second to 20 minutes. The internal 5-axis image stabilizer minimizes blur, even at slower shutter speeds.

    Storage and Connectivity

    The GR IV saves images in both 14-bit RAW and standard JPEG formats. Additionally, it can record videos at 1,920 x 1,080 60p in H.264 MP4 format. Users can store their pictures and videos in the 53 GB of internal memory or on microSDXC cards. A 3.0-inch 3:2 TFT LCD with a resolution of 1,037,000 dots is available for viewing live compositions and accessing files. Photos and videos can be transferred via 802.11ax Wi-Fi or USB-C connections.

    The dimensions of the camera are 109.4 × 61.1 × 32.7 mm (4.31 x 2.41 x 1.29 in.), and it weighs 262 g (9.24 oz.) including the battery and card. Ricoh plans to launch the GR IV in Fall 2025. A version with a highlight diffusion filter, similar to the GR III HDF model, will be available later, although pricing details are not yet known.

    Source:
    Link


  • Fujifilm Unveils X Half Digital Camera with 1-Inch Sensor

    Fujifilm Unveils X Half Digital Camera with 1-Inch Sensor

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fujifilm X-HF1 is a compact digital camera designed primarily for social media, featuring a 3:4 vertical picture format.
    2. It includes a 32 mm f/2.8 lens with advanced autofocus, face and eye detection, and a manual focus ring for precise control.
    3. The camera has a 17.74 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor, an ISO range of 200 to 12,800, and supports video recording at up to 1,080 x 1,440 resolution.
    4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and USB-C, along with an app for smartphone editing and printing.
    5. The X-HF1 is compact in size (105.8 x 64.3 x 45.8 mm) and lightweight (240 g), with a retail price of $849.99 expected in June 2025.


    Fujifilm has introduced its new compact digital camera, the X half (X-HF1), which is the newest addition to the X-series lineup. This camera employs a 3:4 vertical picture format as its primary setting, making it ideal for sharing on social media. With a variety of filters available, it aims to replicate the appearance of different films, providing a user-friendly experience that allows photographers to concentrate on their subjects.

    Lens Features

    The camera comes equipped with a 32 mm f/2.8 lens featuring a 3-blade aperture, which contributes to its distinct image quality. It utilizes contrast autofocus and incorporates face and eye detection to optimize the six lens elements, including three aspheric lenses. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, the focus ring allows for manual adjustments to highlight specific areas in a shot, all while looking through the reverse Galilean optical viewfinder. An interesting feature is the physical film advance lever, which simulates the feel of using a traditional film camera when in Film Camera mode.

    Sensor and Storage

    Inside, the camera boasts a 17.74 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor with an ISO range extending from 200 to 12,800. Shutter speeds can vary from 1/2000 of a second to an impressive 15 minutes. There’s no built-in image stabilizer available, but it does include a compact flash.

    The X half saves images as standard JPEG files and can capture two vertical format images side-by-side as one file. It’s also capable of recording videos at 1,080 x 1,440 resolution at frame rates from 24 to 48 fps in H.264 MP4 format. Users can combine two videos or a video with a photo into a single 2,160 x 1,440 video file. Storage options include SDXC cards, accommodating sizes up to 2 TB. A 2.4-inch 4:3 TFT LCD with 0.92 million dots allows for easy viewing of live compositions and saved files.

    Connectivity and Dimensions

    Files can be transferred via 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, or USB-C connections. The X Half app is available for smartphones, enabling users to digitally edit images, create 2-in-1 images and albums, and print directly to Instax instant photo printers.

    This camera measures 105.8 × 64.3 × 45.8 mm (4.2 x 2.5 x 1.8 in.) and weighs 240 g (8.5 oz.) including the battery and card. The X half has a suggested retail price of $849.99 and is expected to hit the market in June 2025.

    Source:
    Link

  • Google Launches Beam: 3D Video Calling with Real-Time Translation

    Google Launches Beam: 3D Video Calling with Real-Time Translation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google introduced Beam, a 3D video calling system that simulates in-person conversations without the need for headsets or glasses, building on Project Starline.
    2. Beam uses advanced technology, including six high-definition cameras, light-field rendering, and head tracking at 60 frames per second, to create lifelike video calls.
    3. The system maintains eye contact, recognizes gestures, and captures facial expressions, enhancing the sense of presence during calls.
    4. Beam features real-time AI translation, supporting multiple languages while preserving the speaker’s tone and voice, initially available for English and Spanish.
    5. Google plans to collaborate with HP to launch Beam by late 2025, targeting both business and broader communication uses, with integration into Google Meet and other services.


    At the I/O 2025 event, Google introduced Beam, a cutting-edge 3D video calling system made to mimic in-person conversations without needing any headsets or glasses. This platform is the result of the earlier Project Starline.

    Origins of Beam

    Project Starline was a trial telepresence initiative that Google launched in 2021, aimed at creating realistic, 3D video calls that would give the impression that the person on the other end was actually in the same room with you.

    Building on the ideas of Project Starline, Beam merges AI-powered depth sensing technology with a compact light field display to produce lifelike, volumetric images of participants during calls in real time.

    Advanced Technology

    Beam is equipped with six high-definition cameras, light-field rendering, and precise head tracking that operates at an impressive 60 frames per second, all to create a genuine sense of presence. This technology enables users to maintain eye contact, recognize gestures, and understand facial expressions, all while avoiding the discomfort of headsets.

    The initial model was quite large and cumbersome, but Beam has now been streamlined into a sleeker, market-ready product. Google is collaborating with HP to launch it by late 2025, with early adopters including Salesforce, Deloitte, and Duolingo.

    Exciting Features

    A notable new feature of Beam is its real-time AI translation. This is powered by Google’s Gemini models, allowing individuals to converse in various languages while keeping the unique tone and voice of the speaker. Currently, it supports English and Spanish, with plans to add Italian, German, and Portuguese soon. Google has also mentioned that this technology will be integrated into Google Meet to enhance collaboration across language differences.

    Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, stated that Beam is part of the company’s larger effort to make remote communication feel more intuitive and natural. Google aims to connect it with services like Zoom and eventually expand its use beyond just business settings.

    Source:
    Link


  • Epson Projectors Now Support Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit

    Epson Projectors Now Support Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epson has integrated Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit into select projectors for 2025.
    2. Compatible projector models include the PowerLite EB-L6, EB-L7, EB-L8, EB-994F, EB-FH54, and EB-L690SU.
    3. These projectors feature WUXGA resolution and brightness levels up to 8,000 lumens.
    4. Apple AirPlay 2 allows wireless streaming from iPhones, iPads, or Macs to the projectors.
    5. Apple HomeKit enables users to manage projectors through the Apple Home app and Siri voice commands.


    Epson has revealed that it has integrated Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit into a number of its projectors for 2025. The company stated that this change “meets the increasing need for seamless streaming,” whether in offices, educational institutions, or personal spaces.

    Projector Models with New Features

    Epson claims that Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit come pre-installed on certain models. These include the PowerLite EB-L6, EB-L7, and EB-L8 series projectors, which were introduced at ISE 2025. These projectors are fixed-lens laser types, offering a WUXGA resolution and brightness levels of up to 8,000 lumens. Additionally, the EB-994F, EB-FH54, and EB-L690SU models provide more budget-friendly choices for business or educational purposes. You can find a complete list of compatible models below.

    Enhancing Connectivity

    Apple AirPlay 2 debuted in 2018, providing users with iPhones, iPads, or Macs the ability to wirelessly stream content to connected devices. This includes sharing video, audio, and photos from various applications or Safari. Apple HomeKit serves as the brand’s smart home platform, enabling the connection of different smart devices. Users will have the capability to manage these Epson projectors via the Apple Home app or by using Siri voice commands.

    Source:
    Link

  • Xiaomi Smart Camera C100: Lightweight 170g Security Camera with Storage

    Xiaomi Smart Camera C100: Lightweight 170g Security Camera with Storage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is launching the Smart Camera C100, aimed at indoor use, with a design suitable for various mounting options.
    2. The camera records at a resolution of 2,304 x 1,296 and supports three storage methods: microSD card, NAS, or cloud storage.
    3. It features two-way communication with an integrated microphone and speaker, along with echo reduction capabilities.
    4. The camera includes advanced smart home compatibility, such as person detection and area exit alerts.
    5. Infrared LEDs enable color imaging in low light, while the camera requires a wired power connection and supports Wi-Fi 6.


    Xiaomi offers a variety of surveillance cameras suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, available for purchase directly or through Amazon. Their lineup is about to grow with the introduction of the Smart Camera C100. While details on pricing or availability remain unknown, the camera’s appearance on Xiaomi’s global website suggests an upcoming worldwide release.

    Design and Specifications

    The Smart Camera C100 from Xiaomi features a slim design, indicating its suitability for indoor settings; however, the company has not mentioned any IP ratings for weather resistance. The camera is affixed to a stand, allowing users to adjust its angle manually but lacking the ability for remote adjustments. It can be positioned on surfaces like tables or cabinets, and can also be wall or ceiling mounted. With dimensions of 69 x 69 x 115 millimeters and a weight of approximately 170 grams, this camera is capable of recording at a resolution of 2,304 x 1,296 using the H.265 codec. Users can choose from three storage methods: a microSD card, a network-attached storage (NAS) device, or cloud storage. It supports Wi-Fi 6, but requires a wired connection for power.

    Features and Functionality

    Equipped with both a microphone and speaker, the camera allows for two-way communication with individuals in its vicinity, and it claims to have echo reduction features. The device is compatible with smart home systems, boasting advanced options such as person detection and alerts when someone exits a predefined area. The infrared LEDs, which operate at a wavelength of 940 nm, are said to be invisible to the human eye, and Xiaomi asserts they can deliver color images even in dim lighting conditions.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • New U.S. Law Targets AI Deepfakes with Take It Down Act

    New U.S. Law Targets AI Deepfakes with Take It Down Act

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Take It Down Act makes it illegal to share sexually explicit images without consent, including real photos and AI-generated deepfakes.
    2. Social media companies must remove such content within 48 hours after being notified by the victim.
    3. Deepfake incidents have increased significantly, with 180 cases reported in early 2025, a 19% rise from all of 2024.
    4. The Electronic Frontier Foundation criticizes the law for lacking protections against misuse and relying on automated filters that may mistakenly flag legal content.
    5. Smaller online platforms face challenges in complying with the law’s 48-hour removal requirement, complicating the verification of illegal content.


    U.S. President Donald Trump has recently enacted a new law that prohibits the sharing of sexually explicit images without consent online. This legislation applies to both real photographs and AI-generated deepfakes.

    New Regulations on Explicit Content

    The Take It Down Act (as reported by Engadget) makes it a crime to “knowingly publish” or threaten to release fake images of individuals in explicit scenarios online. The law requires social media companies to take down such content within 48 hours upon receiving a notice from the victim.

    Rise in Deepfake Incidents

    According to Surfshark, the occurrence of deepfake incidents has surged in 2025. The report indicates that nearly 180 deepfake cases were reported in the first quarter of 2025, which is 19% higher than the total for all of 2024.

    From the 179 incidents reported in the initial three months, 53 were explicit in nature, while online fraud made up 48. Political-related incidents reached 40, and 38 other miscellaneous reports completed the total.

    Obligations for Online Platforms

    The new law mandates that online platforms establish a process for removing images upon request. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a non-profit that advocates for individual rights on the internet, highlighted that the law has “Major Flaws.”

    The EFF argues that the legislation “lacks important protections against frivolous or bad-faith takedown requests.” They pointed out that many services will depend on “automated filters,” which might result in the wrongful flagging of legal content, including fair-use commentary and news articles.

    The brief 48-hour time frame also poses challenges for smaller platforms, making it difficult “to verify if the content is actually illegal.” The EFF contends that in its current form, the act compels platforms “to actively monitor speech, including that which is currently encrypted.”

    Source:
    Link

  • VIOFO A329S 3CH 4K Dash Cam with Sony Starvis 2 Night Vision

    VIOFO A329S 3CH 4K Dash Cam with Sony Starvis 2 Night Vision

    Key Takeaways

    1. Three-Camera Setup: The A329S 3CH dash cam features a 4K front camera, a 2K infrared cabin camera, and a 2K rear camera, all equipped with Sony’s Starvis 2 technology for improved low-light performance.

    2. High-Quality Video Recording: The front camera records in 4K at 60 fps, while the rear and cabin cameras record in 2K at 30 fps, ensuring clear footage even during high-speed driving.

    3. Advanced Features: Key features include triple-channel recording, HDR support, parking mode, hybrid recording options, and super night vision capabilities.

    4. Connectivity and Control: The dash cam supports the VIOFO app for customization, live location sharing, and voice command control, along with Wi-Fi 6 for fast data transfers.

    5. Pre-Order Promotion: The dash cam is available for pre-order at $359.99, with a complimentary 256 GB memory card and a $30 discount for pre-orders.


    VIOFO has introduced its latest A329S 3CH dash cam to the global market. This new dash cam features a three-camera setup, comprising of a 4K front camera, a 2K infrared fisheye cabin camera, and a 2K rear camera. The front camera utilizes an 8 MP Sony IMX675 sensor, while both the rear and interior cameras are equipped with a 5 MP Sony IMX675 sensor. Notably, all three cameras come with Sony’s latest Starvis 2 technology, which improves performance in low-light conditions, minimizes noise, and enhances dynamic range.

    Video Quality and Features

    In terms of video quality, the front camera can record at a resolution of up to 4K at 60 frames per second, whereas the rear and cabin cameras provide resolutions of up to 2K at 30 frames per second. Each camera is designed to deliver clear and dependable footage even during high-speed driving. The A329S 3CH dash cam is loaded with various features, including triple-channel recording, 3-channel HDR to ensure clarity in both bright and dark settings, parking mode, hybrid recording options, vehicle battery protection, low power impact detection, and super night vision capabilities.

    Additional Capabilities

    Additionally, the dash cam includes a GPS logger that supports features like live route tracking and a Find My Car function. It also has a 2.4-inch LCD screen that allows users to toggle between views from the front, cabin, and rear cameras. Moreover, it offers a multi-video layout that enables the simultaneous viewing of all three camera feeds.

    App Support and Connectivity

    The device is compatible with the VIOFO companion app, which lets users customize settings, share their live location, and download recorded footage. Users can even control the dash cam using voice commands. Other notable features include loop recording, an emergency lock function, Wi-Fi 6 for speedy data transfers, and a circular polarizing lens that reduces glare from the windshield while enhancing clarity and contrast.

    Currently, the VIOFO A329S 3CH dash cam standard edition is available for pre-order on VIOFO’s official website for $359.99, with shipping set to start on May 26th. Additionally, customers who pre-order the dash cam will receive a complimentary 256 GB memory card and a discount of $30.

    Source:
    Link