Category: Video / Photo

  • DJI Osmo Action 6: Early Release with 1/1.1-Inch Aperture Camera

    DJI Osmo Action 6: Early Release with 1/1.1-Inch Aperture Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched the Osmo Action 4 and Osmo Action 5 Pro, with the Osmo Action 6 debuting in China before a global release on November 18.
    2. The Osmo Action 6 features upgraded camera hardware, retaining the same battery as its predecessor but with a slight decrease in runtime to 52 minutes.
    3. It includes an improved 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensor with a 13.5 EV dynamic range, maintaining a 155° field of view and variable aperture from f/2.0 to f/4.0.
    4. The Osmo Action 6 supports 4K/60 and 4K/120 slow motion video, along with 38 MP image capture.
    5. Priced at CNY 2,998 (~$422) with various combo packages, the Osmo Action 6 is expected to be about 15% more expensive than the Osmo Action 5 Pro.


    DJI has unveiled its Osmo Action 4 and introduced the Osmo Action 5 Pro (curr. $339 on Amazon) ahead of the global launch on November 18. The Osmo Action 6 has debuted in China before making its way to other parts of the world, similar to the Osmo Mobile 8 and Neo 2. Interestingly, there was no initial announcement about a November 13 release for this latest action camera.

    Main Features

    The primary distinctions between the Osmo Action 5 Pro and the Osmo Action 6 are found in the upgraded camera hardware of the latter. The Osmo Action 6 continues to utilize the same 1,950 mAh (7.5 Wh) battery as its predecessor, which DJI claims offers an equal 240 minutes of usage per charge. However, the runtime slightly decreases to 52 minutes for this version. Additionally, the Osmo Action 6 maintains the 1.46-inch front and 2.5-inch rear OLED screens, both providing up to 800 nits peak brightness.

    Sensor Improvements

    DJI has replaced the 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor used in the Osmo Action 4 and Osmo Action 5 Pro with an enhanced 1/1.1-inch variant that features a 13.5 EV dynamic range. This new lens retains a 155° field of view and is paired with a variable aperture ranging from f/2.0 to f/4.0, which aligns with earlier leaks. The Osmo Action 6 still supports a maximum of 4K/60 (1:1) and 4K/120 slow motion (16:9), all while capturing 38 MP images.

    Pricing and Packages

    The starting price for the Osmo Action 6 is CNY 2,998 (~$422), which includes the camera, a 1,950 mAh battery, and standard accessories. DJI also provides various combo packages that come with additional accessories tailored for specific activities like mountain biking or snorkeling. Although DJI has not yet announced global pricing, the Osmo Action 6 is expected to be priced about 15% higher than the Osmo Action 5 Pro in China, which originally launched for $349 worldwide.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Google Photos Enhances AI with Prompt Editing and New Ask Button

    Google Photos Enhances AI with Prompt Editing and New Ask Button

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google Photos now allows users to make edits based on prompts, available for iOS users.
    2. The “Help me edit” feature includes the fun Nano Banana for creative photo transformations.
    3. AI templates are introduced for quick image creation, launching initially on Android in India and the US.
    4. AI-powered search functionality is now available in over 100 countries and supports 17 new languages.
    5. A new “Ask” button lets users interact with images and start conversations about them.


    Google has rolled out several new artificial intelligence features for the Google Photos application. One notable addition is the capability to make edits based on prompts, a feature that was previously limited to the Pixel 10 series. Now, with this update, users on iOS can also take advantage of this AI-driven editing functionality.

    Easy Editing with AI

    After updating the app, users can use the “Help me edit” option in Google Photos to request their desired changes. This enhancement also includes the integration of Nano Banana, which adds a fun twist to photo editing.

    As per the company’s announcement, the inclusion of Nano Banana allows users to customize their images in a variety of artistic styles. Google demonstrated how a simple photo could be transformed into a Renaissance-style portrait, and the feature appears to perform effectively within the application.

    AI Templates for Quick Creation

    Another exciting feature added to Google Photos is the introduction of AI templates. The brand claims these templates will help users easily generate images based on a reference they provide. Initially, this feature will launch on Android in both India and the United States.

    The company also emphasized the growth of its AI-powered search function, which was first launched in the US. This search capability is now accessible in over 100 countries and supports more than 17 new languages, including Japanese, Bengali, and Arabic.

    New Interactive Features

    Lastly, there’s a fresh “Ask” button available in Google Photos. This new option empowers users to engage more deeply with the images they see. For instance, they can immediately start a dialogue with Gemini about any photo with just a click of that button.

    Google Blog

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Action Camera Update: New Accessories & Firmware

    Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Action Camera Update: New Accessories & Firmware

    Key Takeaways

    1. Insta360 has refreshed its Ace Pro 2 action camera with new bundles following its initial release in October 2024.
    2. The Ace Pro 2 competes with GoPro’s Hero 13 Black and DJI’s Osmo Action 5 Pro, priced at $339 on Amazon.
    3. The Flash Print Bundle includes a Pocket Printer accessory for creating 3-inch polaroids via Bluetooth.
    4. The Xplorer Grip has been upgraded to the Xplorer Grip Pro, featuring exposure controls, slide zoom, and a longer-lasting battery.
    5. Firmware update v2.0.3 introduces new Leica color profiles and updated film filters for enhanced camera performance.


    Insta360 has refreshed its Ace Pro 2 with several new bundles after teasing their arrival just a few days earlier. To give some background, the company first unveiled the Ace Pro 2 in October 2024 as a competitor to the Hero 13 Black and Osmo Action 5 Pro, which is currently priced at $339 on Amazon. With the emergence of new competitors from GoPro and DJI, Insta360 is now offering its 8K action camera in these bundles:

    Flash Print Bundle

    One of the most thrilling offerings is the Flash Print Bundle, which comes with Insta360’s latest Pocket Printer accessory. This printer connects to the Ace Pro 2 through Bluetooth and has similar hardware to the Polaroid Hi-Print, allowing users to create 3-inch polaroids on demand. However, it remains uncertain if you can turn off a Leica watermark.

    Upgraded Features

    In addition to this, Insta360 has enhanced the Xplorer Grip into the Xplorer Grip Pro, which now includes exposure controls, a 1–2× slide zoom, and a longer-lasting battery. Other enhancements feature a brand-new set of optional lenses and Leica color profiles. Interestingly, Insta360 is providing the latter through a firmware update, v2.0.3, that also brings in updated film filters. For more information, check out Insta360’s official website.

     

    Source:
    Link


     

  • DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Global Release Expected for Holiday Season

    DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Global Release Expected for Holiday Season

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI is launching two major products this month: the Neo 2 drone and the Osmo Action 6 camera.
    2. The Neo 2 drone will debut in China on October 30, with all technical specifications already revealed.
    3. The Osmo Action 6 is scheduled for release on November 18, succeeding the Osmo Action 4 and 5 Pro.
    4. The Osmo Pocket 4 is expected to be announced on December 18, just before a potential FCC ban.
    5. The Osmo Pocket 4 may feature a 1-inch sensor, possibly repurposing the sensor from the Osmo Action 6.


    A few days ago, X account Hakasushi posted some mysterious hints about an upcoming DJI product launch. We previously speculated that this release might be linked to the Osmo Pocket 4. To give some background, DJI has confirmed two significant consumer product launches this month.

    New Drone and Action Camera

    Firstly, they are set to unveil the Neo 2 tomorrow, replacing the original Neo. Interestingly, all the technical specs for the Neo 2 have already been revealed since the drone will make its debut on October 30 in China.

    Secondly, the Osmo Action 6 is on schedule to be launched on November 18, taking over from DJI’s latest action cameras, which includes the Osmo Action 4 and Osmo Action 5 Pro (currently priced at $339 on Amazon). According to YouTuber Photorabz, the Osmo Pocket 4 is expected to be officially announced exactly one month later. Photorabz claims to have insider information indicating that DJI plans to release the Osmo Pocket 4 on December 18.

    Timing and Specs

    This launch schedule seems strategically planned, allowing DJI to introduce its upcoming vlogging camera in the US before a potential FCC ban set for December 23. Photorabz further mentions that the Osmo Pocket 4 might come equipped with a 1-inch type sensor, although earlier speculations suggested it would have a 1/1.3-inch sensor instead. If the 1-inch sensor is indeed true, it is likely that DJI will be reusing the camera sensor from the Osmo Action 6 in this new Osmo Pocket model.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Sharge Launches Sony Cybershot-Inspired 25W Magnetic Power Bank

    Sharge Launches Sony Cybershot-Inspired 25W Magnetic Power Bank

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sharge is launching a retro-styled magnetic power bank called the Icemag 3, inspired by the classic Sony Cybershot camera.
    2. The design features a kickstand and a transparent cutout showcasing a built-in fan with RGB lighting, resembling the T-Series Cybershot’s aesthetics.
    3. The Icemag 3 supports the Qi2.2 standard, offering up to 25W of wireless charging, an upgrade from the Icemag 2’s 15W capacity.
    4. Wired charging speeds have increased to 35W, and the power bank includes a built-in USB-C cable for added convenience.
    5. The Icemag 3 has a 10,000 mAh capacity, providing at least one full recharge for most devices; it is available for preorder at $63.90, with a 15% discount.


    After the launch of a Macintosh-style charging brick and a modern 3-in-1 power bank inspired by the classic Braun Audio 300 turntable, Sharge is set to unveil another retro-styled charging device this Thursday, November 13.

    A Nod to Nostalgia

    This time, they are bringing back the essence of the classic Sony Cybershot camera with their new magnetic power bank, the Icemag 3. This updated version replaces the Icemag 2 and offers improved charging speeds alongside handy features like a built-in cable and a kickstand.

    Design Inspired by Classics

    People who loved the old Sony point-and-shoot cameras will easily recognize the Icemag 3. It’s modeled after the iconic T-Series Cybershot, which featured a sliding aluminum cover that protected its lens.

    The Icemag 3 has a similar bar design; however, instead of a protective cover, it unfolds to function as a kickstand. The lens area has been replaced with a transparent cutout that showcases a built-in 10,000 rpm fan with RGB lighting, giving it a comparable aesthetic.

    Enhanced Charging Capabilities

    As mentioned earlier, the Icemag 3 now supports the latest Qi2.2 standard, allowing it to provide up to 25W of wireless charging, a significant upgrade from the 15W capacity of the Icemag 2. Wired charging speeds have also seen a slight increase to 35W, and Sharge has included an internal USB-C cable in addition to the standard USB-C port for more versatility.

    Currently, only a handful of phones can fully utilize the 25W Qi2.2 speeds, including the iPhone 16 and 17 series (excluding the iPhone 16e) and the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL. The other models in the Pixel 10 range and older iPhones still max out at 15W. Nevertheless, with a 10,000 mAh capacity, the Icemag 3 should provide most devices with at least one complete recharge before needing to be recharged itself.

    The Sharge Icemag 3 will be up for purchase tomorrow, November 13, but customers can preorder now for $63.90, allowing them to save 15% off the anticipated retail price.

     

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Sony A7 V Leaks Suggest Disappointing Next-Gen Full-Frame Camera

    Sony A7 V Leaks Suggest Disappointing Next-Gen Full-Frame Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is preparing to launch the A7 V full-frame mirrorless camera with significant hardware upgrades, including a new sensor and AI-driven processor.
    2. The A7 V may lack certain anticipated video features, such as open gate video and uncropped 4K 60p recording, although at least one feature is expected to be included.
    3. The design of the A7 V will resemble the A7 rV, with upgraded in-body image stabilization (IBIS) expected to achieve up to 8 stops.
    4. The electronic viewfinder (EVF) is rumored to have a higher resolution than the previous model’s 3.86 million-dot EVF.
    5. The announcement for the A7 V is expected in early December, with a potential price around $3,000.


    Thanks to earlier leaks, we’ve known for some time that Sony is gearing up to unveil a new full-frame mirrorless camera within the next few months, featuring several notable hardware improvements. This upcoming model is expected to be the Sony A7 V. However, there are now mixed signals from various sources indicating that the launch of the A7 V may not be as thrilling as past releases that have made Sony a leader in the hybrid mirrorless camera market.

    Internal Upgrades

    Sony is set to refresh the components of its flagship full-frame mirrorless camera with the launch of the A7 V, particularly focusing on the sensor and processor. The sensor is likely to be an improved version of the 33 MP sensor present in the Sony A7 IV (currently priced at $1,998 on Amazon). Meanwhile, the processor is rumored to be upgraded to an AI-driven version similar to the one in the high-end Sony A1 II (currently priced at $6,998 on Amazon).

    Missing Video Features

    Typically, a new processor would enhance the camera’s ability to utilize the sensor’s capabilities. Nevertheless, recent leaks from SonyAlphaRumors suggest that the new full-frame camera might still lack certain video functionalities, such as open gate video, pre-capture, and uncropped 4K 60p video recording. The site has updated its information to clarify that at least one of these absent features will likely be included in the A7 V, which is expected to launch alongside new technology.

    Speculations on Features

    Which specific video features will make it to the Sony A7 V remains uncertain. However, with Canon recently announcing the EOS R6 Mark III that includes a 7K open gate video mode, it seems probable that Sony will also introduce open gate recording, leaving only the uncropped 4K 60p feature still unconfirmed.

    The leaks indicate that the overall design of the Sony A7 V will be pretty standard. The physical body is expected to closely resemble that of the Sony A7 rV, while the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is projected to receive a significant upgrade, boasting up to 8 stops (compared to 5.5 EV stops in the A7 IV). Furthermore, the electronic viewfinder (EVF) is rumored to have a higher resolution than the 3.86 million-dot EVF found in its predecessor. The A7 V is also anticipated to include dual Type-A SD card slots, which is standard for cameras intended for professional use.

    The announcement for the Sony A7 V is expected in early December, with limited availability shortly thereafter. While the exact price is not confirmed, leaks indicate it might be around $3,000.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Legendary Japanese Actor Tatsuya Nakadai Dies at 92

    Legendary Japanese Actor Tatsuya Nakadai Dies at 92

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tatsuya Nakadai passed away from pneumonia in a Tokyo hospital, as reported by Kyodo news agency.
    2. He collaborated with legendary directors Akira Kurosawa and Masaki Kobayashi, significantly impacting his career.
    3. Nakadai’s notable works include over 100 films, with a standout performance in Kurosawa’s “Ran,” which earned an Academy Award nomination.
    4. Kurosawa praised Nakadai’s extraordinary ability to deliver a powerful performance in a single take during a crucial scene in “Ran.”
    5. Nakadai co-founded the Mumeijuku school for aspiring actors, influencing future generations in the Japanese film industry.


    Japanese film icon Tatsuya Nakadai has died from pneumonia in a Tokyo hospital on Saturday, as reported by Kyodo news agency, quoting sources close to Nakadai.

    Collaborations with Great Directors

    Throughout his career, the actor worked alongside some of the most significant figures in cinema, including renowned directors Akira Kurosawa and Masaki Kobayashi. Kurosawa was a legendary Japanese filmmaker, directing 60 films over a span of 60 years. His works, deeply influenced by Western culture, gained global recognition, and he is often regarded as one of the most impactful filmmakers in the history of cinema. Masaki Kobayashi, another prominent figure during Japan’s golden era of film, is celebrated for his depictions of Japanese culture and society.

    A Legacy of Versatility

    Nakadai’s filmography boasts over 100 projects, showcasing a wide range of roles, but he is most famously known for his performance in Kurosawa’s epic film, Ran, an adaptation of Shakespeare’s King Lear, which received an Academy Award nomination for best director. His collaboration with the esteemed Kobayashi played a crucial role in elevating his career; the two worked together for more than 30 years on 11 different projects. Additionally, Nakadai was honored with the Order of Culture, Japan’s highest distinction for contributions to the arts, awarded to him by the emperor.

    A Remarkable Performance

    In an interview, Kurosawa praised Nakadai’s portrayal in Ran, emphasizing how the actor nailed an extraordinary performance in just one take during one of cinema’s most memorable scenes. He described how, without any dialogue, Nakadai had to “express the breakdown of a brilliant mind and strong will, surrounded by flames, with his forces either dead or dying, he must emerge alone through the swirling smoke, gazing straight ahead, and descend a lengthy flight of stairs.”

    Kurosawa revealed that even he required assistance to navigate those same stairs, every time he used them. He remarked:

    “Since the castle was actually burning, we had only one chance to capture the scene. If he had stumbled, it would have diminished the scene’s intensity, but we would have had to accept it. However, Nakadai executed it flawlessly, without any missteps.”

    Impact on Future Generations

    Together with his wife, Yasuko Miyazaki, Tatsuya Nakadai established the Mumeijuku school for aspiring actors in Tokyo, nurturing talents like Koji Yakusho and Mayumi Wakamura. His loss will be deeply felt by friends, family, and fans alike, and his contributions will continue to motivate many future generations of actors within an industry significantly shaped by his influence.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Tapo Launches New 4K 8MP Solar Security Camera for Enhanced Safety

    Tapo Launches New 4K 8MP Solar Security Camera for Enhanced Safety

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TP-Link Tapo C465 features a 4K UHD resolution and 8MP camera with a 135° field of view and 18x digital zoom.
    2. The camera uses AI technology for detecting people, cars, and animals, with customizable alerts available through its app.
    3. It has a solar panel that can power the device for a day with just 50 minutes of sunlight, plus a 7,800 mAh backup battery for up to 180 days of operation.
    4. The camera supports dual-band Wi-Fi and allows for recording storage on a microSD card (up to 512 GB) or in the cloud with a subscription.
    5. Priced at £149.99/€129.90, the camera is currently available in the UK and Germany, with no confirmed release dates for other EU countries or North America.


    The TP-Link Tapo C465 Enhanced AI Solar Security Camera is making its debut in Europe. First introduced at CES 2025 earlier this year, this outdoor smart camera is currently available in just two countries within the region.

    Camera Specifications

    The Tapo C465 boasts a 4K UHD resolution (3,840 x 2,160 px) and an 8MP camera with a wide 135° field of view, along with an 18x digital zoom and color night vision capabilities. It’s engineered to monitor your property effectively, using AI to detect people, cars, and animals, a feature offered at no cost. Users can customize alerts and alarms to fit their preferences and adjust the monitored areas through the app that comes with it.

    Solar Power and Battery Life

    On top of the camera, there’s a solar panel. The company claims that just 50 minutes of sunlight can generate enough power for the device to run for another full day. Additionally, it has a backup battery of 7,800 mAh that allows for up to 180 days of operation without needing a recharge. The camera is compatible with dual-band Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, giving users the option to save recordings on a microSD card of up to 512 GB (which is sold separately) or in the cloud with a Tapo Care subscription. This camera has an IP65 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and water, and can function in temperatures ranging from -40 to 140°F (-40 to 60°C).

    Pricing and Availability

    You can find the TP-Link Tapo C465 Enhanced AI Solar Security Camera on Amazon in countries like the UK and Germany for £149.99/€129.90. It remains uncertain when this product will be launched in other EU nations or when it might officially arrive in North America.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • DJI Osmo Action 6 Combo Leak: Key Accessory for New Camera Missing

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI is expected to release the Osmo Action 6 in late October or early November, with some rumors about reduced combo packages.
    2. The Osmo Action 6 will have at least two accessory kits: the Adventure Combo and the Standard Combo, with changes in their contents.
    3. A significant change in the combo kits is the potential absence of a protective cover for the camera, possibly due to size and cost considerations.
    4. Early unboxing hints that the Osmo Action 6 may include a protective cover, but this is not yet confirmed.
    5. The new Osmo Action 6 features a larger size and different specifications, making older lens covers and filters incompatible.


    It’s well-known now that DJI is gearing up for the release of the Osmo Action 6, its next compact action camera. Rumors and leaks have hinted at a launch in late October or early November, although these speculations were questioned as October came to an end. Recently, credible sources have started to reveal that DJI might be slightly reducing its combo packages for the upcoming Osmo Action 6.

    Accessory Kits for the New Model

    Igor Bogdanov has shared that the DJI Osmo Action 6 will be available with at least two accessory kits — the Adventure Combo and the Standard Combo, which have been staples in DJI’s offerings. However, recent leaked images of these kits suggest some changes, not just to the combos but to the Osmo Action 6 itself.

    Missing Elements in the Combo Kits

    One major change in the Osmo Action 6’s combo kits is the absence of a protective cover for the small action cameras. Previous comparisons between the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro and the Action 6 show a significant difference in size, with the Osmo 6 being noticeably larger. DJI might have chosen to exclude the case from the standard accessory kits, as adding it could make the already compact camera feel bulky. Alternatively, this omission could be due to cost constraints imposed by tariffs.

    The Adventure Combo is expected to include:

    On the other hand, the Standard Combo will come with:

    Possible Early Unboxing Insights

    Interestingly, an early unboxing of the Osmo Action 6 indicates that the new camera might actually come with a protective cover after all. However, no confirmation was provided with this unboxing, so it remains uncertain whether this was just an optional accessory included in the package.

    As of now, the prices for the Adventure and Standard combos have not been officially announced, but the existing Osmo Action 5 Pro is priced at $499 for the Adventure Combo on Amazon.

    In addition, leaks from Mauro Tandoi, which compare the Action 5 Pro and Action 6 side by side, highlight the actual size difference between the two models. It appears that older lens covers and filters won’t fit the new Osmo Action 6, likely due to its variable aperture and the larger 1/1.1-inch sensor featured in the new camera.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Tech Company Rewards Employees with $45,000 Gold Keycaps

    Tech Company Rewards Employees with $45,000 Gold Keycaps

    Key Takeaways

    1. Insta360 rewards top-performing programmers with extravagant solid gold keycaps on Programmer’s Day, increasing their wealth significantly.
    2. The company has distributed 55 gold keycaps so far, with 21 awarded recently to celebrate outstanding performance.
    3. Insta360 has a tradition of giving gold gifts to employees on special occasions, including the 0.36-gram gold stickers for their 10th anniversary.
    4. Employees receive pure gold coins as gifts for significant life events, such as marriages or childbirth.
    5. Founder Liu Jingkang emphasizes that the gold gifts symbolize stability and serve as motivation for employees, reinforcing their value to the company.


    Many businesses provide their employees with tools for work and let them get on with their tasks. However, one particular company takes it a step further by ensuring that their workers’ keyboards shine. Insta360 aims to keep its employees loyal by rewarding them with key caps that are worth a fortune.

    A Special Reward for Programmers

    On the last Programmer’s Day, which was celebrated on October 24, top performers at Insta360 received extravagant solid gold keycaps. Those who excelled were given space bar covers, the heaviest of which weigh up to 35 grams, instantly making them 320,000 yuan ($45,000) wealthier.

    Continuing the Tradition

    So far, Insta360 has generously distributed 55 gold key caps to its employees, with 21 of them given out just last month. This isn’t the first time the company has celebrated important occasions with golden gifts. Earlier this year, to mark a decade in business, every employee was presented with a “gold blind box.” Inside was a sticker made from 0.36 grams of pure gold, featuring an uplifting message that paraphrased a famous saying: “All that glitters is not just gold, but also you.”

    Celebrating Personal Milestones

    When employees at Insta360 have significant life events, they can look forward to receiving gold gifts from the company. For example, the camera manufacturer honors its staff with pure gold coins to celebrate marriages or the birth of a child.

    Is Insta360 attempting to enrich its employees by helping them create a literal golden nest? The founder, Liu Jingkang, has a different perspective. He believes that the true value of these gifts lies in their meaning. Gold represents stability, highlighting that the long-term triumph of Insta360 relies heavily on its skilled and committed workforce.

    Jingkang mentions that the golden key caps serve as a reminder for programmers that each keystroke they make can “turn stone into gold.”

    Source:
    Link