Category: Video / Photo

  • DIY Engineers 3D-Print Fastest Drone at 360.4 mph Record Speed

    DIY Engineers 3D-Print Fastest Drone at 360.4 mph Record Speed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mike Bell and Luke Maximo Bell broke the Guinness World Record for the fastest ground speed of a battery-powered, remote-controlled quadcopter, reaching 580 km/h (360.4 mph).
    2. Their quadcopter, Peregreen 3, previously achieved an unofficial record of 585 km/h (363.5 mph) before the official record was set with the Dubai Police.
    3. The team faced challenges due to extreme heat in Dubai, which caused motor failures and overheating issues.
    4. They experienced several crashes and lost seven drones while working to secure the record, requiring adjustments to hardware and software.
    5. The previous official record was held by a Swiss team at 557.64 km/h (347 mph), which the duo successfully surpassed.


    A father-son duo, Mike Bell and Luke Maximo Bell, who are known for their DIY engineering skills and YouTube content, have teamed up with the Dubai Police to achieve a remarkable feat. They have officially broken the Guinness World Record for the fastest ground speed achieved by a battery-powered, remote-controlled quadcopter, reaching an impressive top speed of 580 km/h (360.4 mph).

    Previous Achievement

    Not long ago, they posted videos on their YouTube channels featuring their latest creation, Peregreen 3. This quadcopter was instrumental in setting an unofficial record, hitting speeds of 585 km/h (363.5 mph). Their recent collaboration with the Dubai Police allowed them to solidify their achievement and set an official record.

    Overcoming Challenges

    To secure the Guinness World Record, the team faced significant challenges due to the extreme heat in Dubai. The high temperatures and low air density led to motor failures, as the motors struggled to perform efficiently while overheating. This caused issues with the magnets in the rotors, adding to their difficulties.

    Despite these setbacks, the team persevered through several crashes, losing a total of seven drones in the process. They ultimately succeeded in surpassing the previous official record of 557.64 km/h (347 mph), which had been set by a team from Switzerland. This accomplishment required various adjustments to both hardware and software, as the harsh desert conditions tested the drone’s capabilities.

     

  • Leica Q3 Monochrome Full-Frame Camera Launch Rumors

    Leica Q3 Monochrome Full-Frame Camera Launch Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Leica Q3 Monochrom is set to be revealed on November 20, 2023, continuing the monochrom line after the Leica Q2.
    2. Expected design changes include the absence of the red Leica logo and potential alterations to the leather texture.
    3. The Bayer color filter will be removed, allowing the camera to capture only black-and-white images and videos.
    4. While the camera’s versatility is limited, it may offer improved performance in low light conditions due to reduced noise.
    5. Key specifications are expected to remain the same as the Leica Q3, including the 28mm f/1.7 lens, robust build, and advanced processing features.


    The Leica Q3 made its debut in May 2023. As per the newest updates from LeicaRumors, a Leica Q3 Monochrom is set to be revealed this Thursday, November 20. Given that the Leica Q2 was previously available in a Monochrom variant, it’s not surprising that Leica is continuing with this line.

    Expected Changes

    Though no information about the Leica Q3 Monochrom has been disclosed yet, it is likely that Leica will adopt a similar strategy as seen with the Leica Q2 Monochrom and Leica M11 Monochrom. If this holds true, we can anticipate two key differences from the standard Leica Q3 (priced from $7,360 on Amazon). Firstly, the design is expected to undergo minor revisions, with the iconic red Leica logo likely to be absent from the front. There may also be alterations to the leather texture. Secondly, the Bayer color filter in front of the 60.3 MP full-frame sensor is set to be eliminated, allowing the camera to solely capture images and videos in black and white.

    Pros and Cons

    This change does limit the camera’s versatility, but it brings the benefit of not losing light to the Bayer filter, which should lead to a notable reduction in noise, particularly at higher sensitivities. The Leica M11 Monochrom, which uses the same black-and-white sensor, is reported to take usable images at ISO 200,000 according to some reviews. The other features and specifications are expected to remain unchanged from the Leica Q3, including the 28mm f/1.7 lens, a sturdy metal body weighing approximately 1.64 lbs, autofocus capabilities, the Leica Maestro IV processor, 8K video support, and an electronic viewfinder boasting 5.76 million dots with a 120Hz refresh rate.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, there’s a lot of anticipation surrounding the upcoming Leica Q3 Monochrom. As more details emerge, enthusiasts and photographers alike are keen to see how it will perform compared to its predecessors. LeicaRumors continues to be a reliable source for the latest updates on this exciting new camera.

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  • Sony A7 V Launch: New 33MP Full-Frame Sensor & Performance Boost

    Sony A7 V Launch: New 33MP Full-Frame Sensor & Performance Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. 33 Megapixel Full-Frame Sensor: The Sony A7 V features a newly designed full-frame CMOS sensor with 33 megapixels and a partially stacked structure for faster readout speeds.

    2. Improved Shooting Speed: The electronic shutter allows for shooting at 30 frames per second, significantly faster than the A7 IV’s 10 frames per second.

    3. Enhanced Video Capabilities: The A7 V is expected to record 4K video at 60 fps using the entire sensor area, improving video quality and dynamic range.

    4. Advanced Autofocus and Stabilization: The camera may include a new processor for better AI-assisted autofocus and improved in-body image stabilization, enabling slower shutter speeds without a tripod.

    5. Additional Features: Anticipated features include a foldable 3.2-inch touchscreen, dual SD card slots, an upgraded electronic viewfinder, and two USB-C ports, with a price around $3,000.


    The new model following the Sony A7 IV (starting at $2,198 on Amazon) is expected to be revealed on December 2. Over the last few weeks, many features of this full-frame camera have been leaked, but now leaker Andrea Pizzini alongside SonyAlphaRumors has acquired more details related to the sensor.

    New Sensor Features

    As per the latest report, Sony is continuing with a full-frame CMOS sensor that has a resolution of 33 megapixels. Nevertheless, this sensor seems to be newly designed with a partially stacked structure. This new setup is likely to deliver a significant benefit: quicker readout speed. This enhancement makes the electronic shutter more effective since moving subjects will be less prone to distortion. Furthermore, it allows for shooting at 30 frames per second with the electronic shutter, whereas the A7 IV is capped at 10 frames per second.

    Mechanical Shutter & Video Quality

    When using the mechanical shutter, the Sony camera remains limited to 10 frames per second. In contrast to earlier speculations, the Sony A7 V is anticipated to record 4K video at 60 fps utilizing the entire sensor area instead of just a cropped section. This should enhance video quality, particularly concerning dynamic range and noise performance compared to its predecessor.

    Additional Features and Price

    The Sony A7 V might also be equipped with a new processor to improve AI-assisted autofocus and enhance in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which is said to permit shutter speeds up to eight stops slower without needing a tripod. Rumors also suggest a foldable 3.2-inch touchscreen, dual SD card slots, an upgraded electronic viewfinder, and two USB-C ports could be part of the package. The anticipated price for the Sony A7 V is around $3,000. More information regarding features, pricing, and availability is expected to be officially announced on December 2.

     

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  • DJI Avata 360 Outperforms Insta360 Antigravity A1 Without Gear

    DJI Avata 360 Outperforms Insta360 Antigravity A1 Without Gear

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched the Neo 2 drone, but it is not available in the US.
    2. The Osmo Action 6 is priced at $369 on Amazon and may soon be updated.
    3. The Osmo Pocket 4 is expected to be released in December, but no date is confirmed for the Avata 360.
    4. The Avata 360 will feature dual 1/1.1-inch CMOS camera sensors and a rotating camera module.
    5. The Avata 360 is designed to function as both a 360-degree drone and a traditional FPV drone, eliminating the need for landing gear.


    DJI has launched the Neo 2 drone, except in the US. This release was quickly followed by the Osmo Action 6, which is currently priced at $369 on Amazon. However, the Neo 2 might not hold the title of DJI’s latest consumer drone for long. The same goes for the Osmo Action 6, as the company’s action camera line is about to get a shake-up similar to the Osmo Pocket.

    Upcoming Releases

    At this moment, it’s uncertain how much longer the Neo 2 will be DJI’s newest consumer drone. The Osmo Pocket 4 is expected to come out in December, but no specific date has been announced for the Avata 360. Still, several details have surfaced, like the inclusion of dual 1/1.1-inch CMOS camera sensors.

    Features of Avata 360

    Photos suggest that DJI won’t limit the Avata 360 to just being a 360-degree drone. The camera module is designed to rotate, allowing it to function like a traditional first-person view (FPV) drone, similar to the Avata 2. This design means the Avata 360 will not damage either camera lens upon landing. Therefore, DJI’s upcoming drone doesn’t require landing gear, unlike the retractable gear found on the Antigravity A1.

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  • BenQ Launches BR9708 4K Laser Projector with Superior Color Quality

    BenQ Launches BR9708 4K Laser Projector with Superior Color Quality

    Key Takeaways

    1. The BenQ BR9708 4K Laser Simulation Projector features a 4K UHD resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels and a high contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1, making it suitable for immersive business applications like escape rooms and theme parks.

    2. It offers impressive brightness of up to 2,600 ANSI lumens with a lifespan of approximately 20,000 hours, and can project images up to 300 inches wide with an interchangeable lens.

    3. The projector includes advanced features like automatic 2D keystone correction and motorized focus, but requires external speakers for audio as it lacks built-in sound.

    4. The BR9708 operates quietly at only 30dB, making it ideal for immersive events and exhibitions, and is designed for versatile placement with dimensions of 525 x 146 x 392 mm.

    5. Pricing for the BR9708 is £4,659 in the UK and €6,499 in various EU countries, with alternative options like the BenQ W2720i home theater projector available at lower price points.


    BenQ has introduced its BR9708 4K Laser Simulation Projector in Europe, a device specifically made for business applications. It’s ideal for use in escape rooms, theme parks, and various immersive attractions.

    Stunning Visuals

    The BR9708 boasts a 4K UHD resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels and a native aspect ratio of 16:9, along with an impressive contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1. With an interchangeable lens, this projector can create images as large as 300 inches wide, and it offers a throw ratio ranging from 0.15 to 1.6. Thanks to its laser light source, it achieves a brightness of up to 2,600 ANSI lumens, with a lifespan estimated at 20,000 hours under normal conditions. Additionally, it covers the complete DCI-P3 color gamut, promising lifelike images; it’s noted for providing “the color performance of high-end projectors at a fraction of the cost of competing solutions.”

    Advanced Features

    To enhance image quality, the BenQ BR9708 includes automatic 2D keystone correction and motorized focus features. However, it does not come with built-in speakers, so users will need to connect external devices through ports like USB-A and HDMI (ARC), featuring an input lag of 17.9 ms at 4K@60Hz. According to the manufacturer, the projector operates quietly, producing only 30dB of sound, making it perfect for immersive events and exhibitions. Its dimensions are 525 x 146 x 392 mm (approximately 21 x 6 x 16 inches), allowing it to be set on a table or mounted on a ceiling.

    Pricing Information

    In the UK, the BR9708 is available for £4,659 from retailers such as Jacks Golf Sims, while in various EU countries, you can find it for €6,499 at VisuNext. If you’re interested in a 4K home theater projector from BenQ, consider the W2720i, which is currently priced at $2,099 on Amazon US and €1,897.26 on Amazon DE.

     

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  • DiVine: Jack Dorsey Revives Vine’s 6-Second Loop, Bans AI

    DiVine: Jack Dorsey Revives Vine’s 6-Second Loop, Bans AI

    Key Takeaways

    1. Human-Centric Focus: DiVine aims to prioritize human-created content over viral, AI-generated videos, fostering genuine connections among users.

    2. Creator Ownership: The platform allows original Viners to reclaim their accounts and content, reinforcing the importance of creator rights and ownership.

    3. AI Content Verification: DiVine employs tools to block suspected AI-generated content, ensuring that only authentic videos made on real devices are shared.

    4. Decentralized Technology: Built on the Nostr protocol, DiVine promotes a decentralized, open-source environment to avoid the pitfalls of corporate algorithms that led to the original Vine’s downfall.

    5. Niche Monetization Approach: Instead of chasing mass virality, DiVine focuses on tipping and micropayments to support creators, raising questions about sustainability in a competitive social media landscape.


    Vine has returned, but this time it focuses more on human touch rather than just going viral. DiVine, a fresh take on the original Vine, brings back memories while standing firmly against AI. Spearheaded by former Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey and early Twitter engineer Evan Henshaw-Plath, also known as ‘Rabble’, the app not only revives the classic six-second looping videos but also promises a feed centered around human content for future uploads.

    Archive and Ownership

    Henshaw-Plath explains that the team created the archive from a community backup, and now DiVine contains about 150,000 to 200,000 restored videos from around 60,000 original creators, featuring many of the most popular clips. Original Viners have the option to request their accounts back, allowing them to reclaim or delete content, which the team believes emphasizes creator ownership.

    AI Content and Verification

    The platform is designed to identify and block suspected AI-generated content, utilizing verification tools and device-provenance checks from the Guardian Project to ensure clips are authentic recordings from real phones. The founders see this as a necessary response to the overwhelming amount of AI-generated content flooding other social media timelines.

    Decentralized Technology

    DiVine’s technology is intentionally decentralized, built on the Nostr protocol, enabling anyone to create relays or media hosts. The code is open source, and Dorsey’s nonprofit ‘and Other Stuff’ has funded the project, aiming to showcase what a permissionless social network can be like. This setup is intended to protect against the corporate algorithm-driven environments that caused the original Vine to fail in its earlier version.

    Rebuilding the old Vine content was no easy task, Rabble acknowledges; the archive was stored in large binary files, requiring months of scripting to retrieve usable media and metadata. “So basically, I’m like, can we do something that’s kind of nostalgic?” he mentioned to TechCrunch. This nostalgia is practical too, as the restoration process includes views, a selection of comments, and features for creators to verify ownership.

    Mixed Reactions

    Initial feedback is varied, with some users on X and certain subreddits celebrating the comeback, while others express skepticism toward yet another Dorsey-led initiative. They question whether a smaller, curated app can thrive in a landscape dominated by larger platforms. There are doubts about growth and the difficulties of monetizing without the advertising systems that fuel TikTok and YouTube Shorts. DiVine is focusing on tipping, micropayments, and a niche creator economy instead of pursuing mass virality.

    The future of whether creators will reclaim their accounts in large numbers and if a decentralized feed can draw both users and developers remains uncertain. For the moment, DiVine is an intriguing experiment, a drive for nostalgia, a stand against AI, and a reminder that content created by humans still holds value in the cultural landscape.

    DiVine currently has a waitlist for its mobile app, which is worth checking out if you want to be among the first to use an application that might one day gain the popularity its predecessor enjoyed during its peak.

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  • DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Spotted Ahead of December 2025 Release

    DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Spotted Ahead of December 2025 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched the Neo 2 globally and will release the Osmo Action 6 worldwide on November 18.
    2. Leaker Igor Bogdanov has shared new details and images of the upcoming Osmo Pocket 4.
    3. The Osmo Pocket 4 is expected to feature two cameras, a significant change from the Osmo Pocket 3.
    4. The design of the Osmo Pocket 4 remains partially unknown, with no leaked images showing the front.
    5. DJI plans to officially unveil the Osmo Pocket 4 on December 18, with more leaks likely before then.


    DJI has recently introduced the Neo 2 and Osmo Action 6 after a series of major leaks over the past few weeks. Currently, the Neo 2 is available for purchase globally, but the Osmo Action 6 is limited to the company’s home market at this time. Nonetheless, DJI has announced that the Osmo Action 6 will become available worldwide starting November 18.

    New Developments in Vlogging Technology

    With the release of these devices nearly complete, leaker Igor Bogdanov has revealed fresh details about the upcoming Osmo Pocket 4. He has shared a new image of this vlogging camera, which is anticipated to differ from the Osmo Pocket 3 in multiple ways (currently priced at $525 on Amazon). The image appears to align with a previous one that Bogdanov had shared earlier this year on X.

    Features and Expectations

    In the image below, it seems that DJI is working on the Osmo Pocket 4 featuring two cameras, marking a significant shift from its predecessor. Interestingly, other leaked photographs have not shown the front of the Osmo Pocket 4, leaving some mystery around its design. Nevertheless, sources indicate that DJI plans to officially unveil its next Osmo Pocket vlogging camera on December 18. Thus, we can expect more detailed leaks regarding the Osmo Pocket 4 to emerge before this month concludes.

    Igor Bogdanov’s insights continue to be a valuable source of information about DJI’s upcoming products.

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  • Pope Leo’s Top 4 Movie Picks Before Hollywood-Vatican Event

    Pope Leo’s Top 4 Movie Picks Before Hollywood-Vatican Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pope Leo XIV will host a Hollywood-Vatican summit on November 15, focusing on dialogue with the film industry.
    2. Notable attendees include actors like Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, and directors such as Spike Lee and Gus Van Sant.
    3. The event aims to explore how artistic expression can support the Church’s mission and human values.
    4. The Pope seeks to increase his visibility and present the Church positively, contrasting with his more reserved personality compared to Pope Francis.
    5. Leo XIV shared his favorite films, including “The Sound of Music” and “Life is Beautiful,” highlighting his connection to cinema.


    Pope Leo XIV is set to host a gathering of well-known figures, including actors and filmmakers, at the Hollywood-Vatican summit on November 15. While it’s quite normal for stars to be invited to the Vatican — just last week, the Pope met with Robert De Niro — this occasion is especially important, as it focuses solely on Hollywood.

    Notable Attendees

    As per the Vatican, many celebrities are expected to join the unique audience at the Apostolic Palace, such as Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Viggo Mortensen, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, and Monica Bellucci. Renowned Oscar-winning directors like Spike Lee, George Miller, Giuseppe Tornatore, and Gus Van Sant will also likely be present.

    A Strategic Move?

    People may question why the head of state of Vatican City — notably the first pope from the USA — would host such an event. A statement released by the Vatican this week shed light on this:

    The pope has voiced his wish to enhance dialogue with the film industry … examining how artistic expression can contribute to the church’s mission and the advancement of human values.

    Nonetheless, other sources imply that the goal is to elevate the new Pope’s visibility beyond Catholic media and portray the Church positively. Unlike his predecessor, Francis, Leo tends to be more reserved. Hendro Munsterman, a Vatican correspondent for the Dutch newspaper Nederlands Dagblad, noted:

    Leo lacks the charisma that Francis had, who was known for his memorable quotes. Leo is more of a listener, very soft-spoken and humble, which has its own appeal. But he is also a product that needs to be marketed.

    Favorite Films Revealed

    In preparation for the summit, the Chicago-born Pope shared a video detailing his four favorite movies: The Sound of Music, directed by Robert Wise; It’s a Wonderful Life, by Frank Capra; An Ordinary Family, helmed by Robert Redford; and Life is Beautiful, directed by Roberto Benigni.

     

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  • DJI Neo 2: Compact LiDAR Drone Launches Worldwide After China Release

    DJI Neo 2: Compact LiDAR Drone Launches Worldwide After China Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release and Availability: The DJI Neo 2 launched in China on October 30, 2024, and will be available in Europe, Canada, and Brazil on November 13, 2024.

    2. Lightweight Design with Smart Sensors: Weighing 151 g, the Neo 2 features optical and infrared sensors for full obstacle detection, including forward LiDAR for depth mapping.

    3. Enhanced Camera Stabilization: The camera now has a two-axis gimbal for better stabilization, allowing for 4K video recording at 100 fps and improved HDR processing.

    4. Improved Battery and Storage: The Neo 2 offers a battery life of up to 19 minutes and 49 GB of internal storage, enabling about 100 minutes of 4K/60 fps video recording.

    5. Advanced Control Options: Users can control the drone via gesture and voice commands, connect to the DJI RC-N3 controller for extended range, or use it with Goggles for a first-person view experience.


    DJI has recently added to its well-liked compact drone series with the Neo 2, which follows the small Neo that was launched in September 2024. After its release in China on October 30, the Neo 2 is set to arrive in Europe, Canada, and Brazil on November 13. This new model is ideal for casual users and content creators looking for a compact, self-flying camera with slight enhancements compared to its previous version.

    Lightweight and Smart Sensors

    Weighing in at just 151 g, the Neo 2 is still quite light, although it does weigh a bit more than the original model. DJI has equipped it with a ring of optical and infrared sensors that enable complete obstacle detection. This includes forward LiDAR for depth mapping and downward positioning to ensure smoother landings. The original Neo lacked significant collision avoidance features, often depending solely on the pilot’s alertness.

    Enhanced Camera Features

    When it comes to camera capabilities, the Neo 2 uses the same sensor found in the first Neo but shifts from a single-axis system to a two-axis gimbal that stabilizes a 12 MP 1/2-inch CMOS sensor. It can record video at up to 4K @ 100 fps with improved HDR processing and reduced motion blur. As a result, shots taken without handheld support and slow-motion footage should appear much steadier compared to the Neo’s previous limit of 4K @ 30 fps.

    Improved Battery and Storage

    Battery life has also improved slightly, lasting up to 19 minutes. The internal storage now has 49 GB, allowing for about 100 minutes of 4K/60 fps video. Files can be transferred wirelessly at speeds up to 80 MB/s without needing any cables. The Neo 2 continues to support gesture and voice commands, while advanced users can connect DJI’s RC-N3 controller for a range of up to 10 km or pair the drone with Goggles and the Motion Controller for a first-person view flying experience.

     

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  • DJI Osmo Action 6 Leak: 38 MP Sensor, Variable Aperture, 20m Water Resistance

    DJI Osmo Action 6 Leak: 38 MP Sensor, Variable Aperture, 20m Water Resistance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The DJI Osmo Action 6 features a 1/1.1-inch 38 MP CMOS sensor and a variable aperture lens (f/2.0 to f/4.0).
    2. It can capture video at up to 4K 120 fps or 1080p 240 fps.
    3. The camera includes RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady stabilization, and is water-resistant up to 20 meters.
    4. It will be available in Standard and Adventure Combo editions, but may not include a protective case.
    5. Pricing is speculated to be around $379, based on previous models.


    There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding the upcoming DJI Osmo Action 6. The latest scoop comes from well-known insider Quadro_News on X, who has shared additional insights regarding the camera’s hardware features.

    Hardware Details

    As reported by Quadro_News, the Osmo Action 6 will be equipped with a 1/1.1-inch 38 MP CMOS sensor and a lens with a variable aperture that ranges from f/2.0 to f/4.0. This model is capable of capturing video at up to 4K 120 fps or 1080p 240 fps.

    Promotional Insights

    Previously, we mentioned that DJI is marketing this new model with the slogan “Square UP, Nail the Move,” indicating that it may take over the roles of the Osmo Action 4 and Action Pro 5. Additionally, an earlier leak suggested the inclusion of a variable-aperture lens and a camera body spacious enough to fit the new 1/1.1-inch sensor.

    Stability and Durability Features

    The recent news appears to build on earlier information, offering more clarity on the specifications. Quadro_News asserts that the camera will include RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady stabilization features. It is also expected to be water-resistant up to 20 meters without a housing and will have a chassis weight of 149 g. These features indicate that the Osmo Action 6 is likely to be among DJI’s most robust and adaptable cameras.

    Availability and Pricing Speculation

    As mentioned earlier, DJI may not include a protective case in the standard packages. The Osmo Action 6 is anticipated to come in both Standard and Adventure Combo editions.

    Currently, there’s no official pricing available. However, drawing from previous models, the new action camera might be priced at around $379.

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