Category: Video / Photo

  • DJI Plans November Global Launch Event: What to Expect

    DJI Plans November Global Launch Event: What to Expect

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI is expected to launch three new products in November: the Neo 2 drone, Osmo Mobile 8 stabiliser, and Mic 3 Pro microphone.
    2. A global launch event is scheduled for November 5 at 12:00 UTC, with hints about the new releases.
    3. The Osmo Mobile 8 will replace the Osmo Mobile 7 and shares features with the Osmo Mobile 7P.
    4. The Osmo Mobile 8 is already available in China and is anticipated for global release.
    5. DJI is keeping details about the launch mysterious, creating excitement among fans.


    According to the latest news, DJI is set to launch three new products worldwide in November. The company hasn’t officially confirmed this yet, but the Neo 2 drone, Osmo Mobile 8 camera stabiliser, and Mic 3 Pro wireless microphone are all anticipated to be released next month.

    New Launch Event

    The company has announced a new global launch event, which is shown in the teaser below. As is typical, DJI is keeping things a bit mysterious about what they will unveil. Currently, they’re only suggesting that something “in tune with every move” will be revealed on November 5 at 12:00 UTC.

    Teaser Details

    Despite the ambiguity, there are hints in the teaser and on their website. It looks like DJI is preparing to release the Osmo Mobile 8 on a global scale. This new camera stabiliser will replace the Osmo Mobile 7, but it actually shares more features with the Osmo Mobile 7P (currently priced at $129 on Amazon) than with the previous model. The Osmo Mobile 8 is already available in China. For further information about DJI’s forthcoming smartphone camera stabiliser, check out our original article on the Osmo Mobile 8 launch.

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  • Sharp Launches Two New Value LCD Laser Projectors

    Sharp Launches Two New Value LCD Laser Projectors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sharp V series projectors XP-V731U and XP-V801U are designed for education, business, and entertainment, featuring a cost-efficient design.
    2. Both projectors have a native WUXGA resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels, use 3LCD technology, and support 4K input with a contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1.
    3. The XP-V731U offers brightness up to 7,300 ISO lumens, while the XP-V801U reaches 8,000 ISO lumens, with a laser light source lasting up to 20,000 hours.
    4. They feature remote management via Sharp’s ProAssist software and are compatible with existing mounts and lenses from Sharp.
    5. The expected retail prices are approximately £3,545.99/€4,326 for XP-V731U and £4,100.99 for XP-V801U, with availability through select retailers in Europe.


    The Sharp V series projectors, named XP-V731U and XP-V801U, have just been announced. They are designed for use in various professional environments such as education, business, and entertainment. The company promotes these projectors as having a “cost-efficient design.” These two models were launched along with four new A series projectors from the brand.

    Projector Specifications

    Both the XP-V731U and XP-V801U projectors are WUXGA models featuring a native resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels. They utilize 3LCD technology and support 4K input, with a native 16:10 aspect ratio and an impressive contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1. The maximum recommended projection size is 500 inches, and they work well at a projection distance ranging from 0.7 to 50.9 meters. Depending on the lens used, users can adjust the zoom and focus either manually or via motorized controls, and they also have manual tools for horizontal and vertical keystone corrections.

    Performance and Features

    Every unit comes with a laser light source that can last up to 20,000 hours without any maintenance required. The XP-V731U model provides a brightness of up to 7,300 ISO lumens, while the XP-V801U is even brighter with a maximum of 8,000 ISO lumens. Sharp claims these projectors operate quietly, producing noise levels as low as 31 to 32 dB. Additionally, they are compatible with existing mounts and lenses from Sharp, and users can manage and configure them remotely using Sharp’s ProAssist software.

    Sharp’s V Series projectors, the XP-V731U and XP-V801U, are expected to retail for approximately £3,545.99/€4,326 and £4,100.99 in Europe. They will be available through various retailers, including Back To the Office in the UK and Bechtle in Germany. Pricing details for the US market have yet to be disclosed.

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  • Stunning Hubble Image of Star-Studded Galaxy – Picture of the Week

    Stunning Hubble Image of Star-Studded Galaxy – Picture of the Week

    Key Takeaways

    1. NGC 4571 is a spiral galaxy located about 60 million light-years away in the constellation Berenices, captured in detail by the Hubble telescope.
    2. The image highlights star clusters made of young, massive stars that appear blue, alongside pink regions indicating active star formation.
    3. The pink glow in star-forming regions is due to young stars emitting ultraviolet light, which ionizes nearby hydrogen gas, leading to H-alpha light emission.
    4. Star formation begins with cold gas clouds that collapse under gravity, heating up and eventually forming new stars.
    5. The latest image of NGC 4571 builds on previous observations and aids astronomers in studying the effects of dust on the visibility of young stars.


    NGC 4571 is a spiral galaxy that sits roughly 60 million light-years away in the constellation Berenices. The Hubble telescope captured an image showing the galaxy’s spiral arms and the many star clusters that surround it. These clusters are made up of young, massive stars that shine blue in the photo.

    Star Formation Revealed

    The image also features regions glowing pink. These areas are where new stars are being formed. The young, hot stars emit a lot of ultraviolet light, which ionizes the hydrogen gas nearby. This ionization leads to the emission of H-alpha light, giving these star-forming regions their distinct pink hue.

    The Process Behind It

    Observations like this one emphasize the fascinating nature of star formation. It’s even more captivating when you think about how the hot stars seen in the image originated from gas that was at freezing temperatures.

    Before stars come into existence, gas clouds at such low temperatures are drawn in by gravity. This gravitational force causes the gas to collapse inward. As it collapses, the center starts to heat up gradually, eventually leading to the stars shining.

    A prior image of NGC 4571 was shared in 2022, which was part of a broad observation program. This latest image provides additional data.

    It incorporates findings from a project focused on how dust impacts the visibility of young stars that are still hidden within their birth clouds. Astronomers rely on Hubble images like this to unravel the mysteries surrounding star formation.

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  • DJI Neo 2 Leak Reveals Design Changes and Upcoming Drone Release

    DJI Neo 2 Leak Reveals Design Changes and Upcoming Drone Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The DJI Neo 2 will be launched in China tomorrow, with a worldwide release planned for November 13.
    2. Pricing for the Neo 2 is set at £209 in the UK, €239 in the Eurozone, and $259 in the US.
    3. The retail packaging design has been leaked, confirming changes from the previous DJI Neo model.
    4. The Neo 2 features a new two-axis gimbal for improved image stabilization.
    5. The battery placement has been moved to the top, with new front-facing sensors and a small LED display around the camera.


    DJI is set to reveal the Neo 2 in China tomorrow. According to recent rumors, the company plans to launch this new compact drone in other countries about two weeks later. Specifically, leaker billbil-kun mentioned yesterday that the DJI Neo 2 will be available worldwide on November 13, priced at £209 in the UK, €239 in the Eurozone, and $259 in the US.

    Retail Packaging and Design Insights

    Meanwhile, the first glimpse of the retail packaging has surfaced on social media. Likely shared by OsitaLV on X, the image supports earlier leaks about the drone’s design and how it varies from the current DJI Neo, which is priced at $229 on Amazon. For example, the leaked photo prominently features DJI’s new two-axis gimbal, expected to offer significantly better image stabilization compared to the existing 135 g drone from DJI.

    New Features and Specifications

    Moreover, for this version, DJI has shifted the battery placement to the top. At this moment, it is still uncertain how this change impacts weight distribution. Additionally, the Neo 2 is designed with front-facing sensors and a small LED display positioned around its camera, similar to the DJI Flip. Interestingly, this latest leak suggests that DJI has already started mass-producing the Neo 2’s global retail packaging. Therefore, it appears that the international launch of the drone will closely follow its release in China, aligning with the claims made by billbil-kun.

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  • Nikon Z f Full-Frame Camera Receives Major 3.00 Firmware Update

    Nikon Z f Full-Frame Camera Receives Major 3.00 Firmware Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nikon Z f is priced at $1,996 and has been available for over two years, with ongoing software updates.
    2. The latest firmware update, version 3.00, introduces film grain simulation for photos and videos, allowing users to adjust grain intensity and coarseness.
    3. New settings include Focus Peaking that highlights high-contrast edges in color for manual focusing.
    4. New frame guides help photographers visualize how images will look when cropped to 4:3 or 9:16 for social media content.
    5. The electronic viewfinder now stays disabled when the display is extended, preventing accidental switching between the display and EVF.


    The Nikon Z f is priced at $1,996 on Amazon and has been available for more than two years. Despite its age, Nikon keeps offering software updates for this unique system camera. The latest firmware update, version 3.00, brings significant improvements to the device.

    Film Grain Simulation

    One of the major features of this update is the introduction of film grain simulation, which adds noticeable noise to images, mimicking the appearance of analog photography. Users can modify the grain’s intensity across six different levels and its coarseness in three distinct levels. Each photo will have a unique grain pattern since the simulation is applied individually, and this feature is also applicable to videos.

    New Settings and Features

    Additionally, the update includes several new options. For instance, Focus Peaking can now be set to highlight only high-contrast edges in color when using the magnified view for manual focusing. New frame guides allow photographers to see how an image would look when cropped to 4:3 or 9:16, which is very helpful for content creation on social media.

    Following the update, the electronic viewfinder will stay disabled while the display is extended. This change helps to avoid accidental switching between the display and EVF caused by a camera strap, a finger, or clothing that might trigger the sensor. Users can find the firmware update version 3.00 for the Nikon Z f available at Nikon’s download center.

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  • DJI Neo 2 Launch Date and Pricing Details Leaked for Global Markets

    DJI Neo 2 Launch Date and Pricing Details Leaked for Global Markets

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI will launch its new compact consumer drone, the Neo 2, on October 30.
    2. The Neo 2 will be available for purchase outside of China starting November 13.
    3. The starting price for the Neo 2 in the US is expected to be $259, which is $40 more than initially rumored.
    4. The Fly Solo Bundle will be priced at £209 in the UK and €239 in the Eurozone.
    5. The Fly More Combo bundle will cost $429 in the US, €399 in the Eurozone, and £349 in the UK, including extra accessories.


    DJI is set to introduce its next compact consumer drone in just a few days. As mentioned before, the company has planned a launch event for October 30, likely unveiling the successor to last year’s DJI Neo (currently priced at $159 on Amazon). Recently, several details regarding the Neo 2 have surfaced online.

    Latest Insights from Billbil-kun

    Leaker billbil-kun has shared insights on DJI’s upcoming drone release. There was some confusion about whether the Neo 2 would be available worldwide on the same date. According to billbil-kun, that won’t be happening.

    Instead, the leaker suggests that the Neo 2 will be available for purchase outside of China starting November 13. However, the launch pricing appears to be higher than what was initially rumored, with an increase of €40/$40 on the Neo 2. Billbil-kun anticipates that the starting price in the US will be $259, which includes the drone and one Intelligent Flight battery.

    Pricing Details for Bundles

    Additionally, the Fly Solo Bundle will be priced at £209 in the UK and €239 across the Eurozone. The Fly More Combo bundle will be offered at $429, €399, and £349 in these regions, including extra accessories such as three batteries, a Motion 3 controller, and a Goggles N3 adapter. Lastly, the Motion Fly More Combo is expected to be priced at $599, €579, and £509.

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  • Insta360 X4 Air 8K Action Camera: Sleek Design & 100 Min Runtime

    Insta360 X4 Air 8K Action Camera: Sleek Design & 100 Min Runtime

    Key Takeaways

    1. The X4 Air is the lightest 8K 360° action camera, weighing only 165 grams (0.36 lbs) and measuring 46 x 113.8 x 37 mm (1.81 x 4.48 x 1.45 inches).
    2. It features dual 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensors, providing 29 MP resolution, 8K video at 30 fps, and enhanced imaging with AdaptiveTone technology.
    3. The camera includes extensive video modes like active HDR, time-lapse, and InstaFrame Mode, along with FlowState stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock.
    4. The X4 Air is compatible with most X5 accessories and can be used underwater up to 49 ft (15 m), featuring gesture controls.
    5. The pricing starts at $399.99/€399.99, with a starter kit available for $439.99/€429.99, and it comes in graphite black and arctic white colors.


    The X4 Air has been presented by the company as the lightest 8K 360° action camera in its lineup. In terms of size, it measures 46 x 113.8 x 37 mm (1.81 x 4.48 x 1.45 inches) and weighs only 165 grams (0.36 lbs), which is nearly the same weight as a smartphone. In comparison, the original X4 has identical dimensions but is a bit heavier, coming in at 203 grams (0.44 lbs).

    Enhanced Imaging Technology

    The X4 Air features dual 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensors that enhance the quality of the captured footage, providing richer colors and finer details. Similar to the X5 model, this action camera is equipped with Insta360’s smart exposure technology known as AdaptiveTone. When it comes to imaging, the CMOS sensor delivers a resolution of 29 MP with an aperture of f/1.95 and a focal length equivalent to 6.4 mm. It can shoot 360° videos at a remarkable 8K resolution at 30 frames per second.

    Extensive Video Modes and Features

    One of the advantages is that it includes all the video modes found in the premium X5 camera, like 360° video, active HDR, InstaFrame Mode, time-lapse, loop recording, road mode, and more. Additionally, the camera comes with Insta360’s FlowState stabilization and a 360° Horizon Lock, which aids in stabilizing the footage. Users have the ability to auto-edit 360° videos, export clips, and modify images using the Insta360 app. Unlike its predecessor, the Insta360 X4 Air is compatible with most of the accessories designed for the X5. Plus, this action camera can go underwater up to 49 ft (15 m) and features gesture controls.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Insta360 X4 Air is offered in two colors: graphite black and arctic white, with the standard package priced at $399.99/€399.99. There’s also a starter kit available, which includes a 114 cm invisible selfie stick, a lens cap, and an extra battery for $439.99/€429.99. Customers can buy the action camera from Insta360’s official site and Amazon.


     

  • Adata SR800: Wireless Power Bank & SSD with 2,000 MB/s Speed

    Adata SR800: Wireless Power Bank & SSD with 2,000 MB/s Speed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Combination Device: The Adata SR800 Magnetic Power Bank SSD merges a wireless power bank and a magnetic SSD into a compact and portable accessory.

    2. Magnetic Compatibility: It features a magnetic ring for attachment to iPhones and Qi2-compatible devices, and offers a 5,000 mAh battery with wireless charging up to 15 W.

    3. Modular Design: The SSD can be securely slid into the power bank and used as a removable external drive for laptops, allowing for data backup and high-resolution media capture.

    4. Handy Features: The device includes a built-in kickstand for hands-free use and has compact dimensions, making it easy to carry.

    5. Warranty Information: Adata offers a one-year warranty for the power bank and a five-year warranty for the SSD, although pricing and availability details are not yet disclosed.


    Adata has launched an innovative accessory aimed at mobile creators. The new SR800 Magnetic Power Bank SSD merges the capabilities of a wireless power bank, similar to the Anker Zolo, and a magnetic SSD, like the Corsair EX400U we previously examined, into a sleek and portable device that weighs less than 200 grams.

    Magnetic Features

    The Adata SR800 is equipped with a magnetic ring, which enables it to attach to the latest iPhones and Qi2-compatible devices, including the Google Pixel 10 series. It boasts a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh and supports wireless charging at a maximum of 15 W. Additionally, it has a USB-C port that enhances charging speeds to 20 W; however, this is still less than the newer Qi2.2 power banks that can achieve up to 25 W wirelessly.

    Modular Design

    Despite this, the SR800 showcases an intelligent modular design that allows users to slide the SSD into the power bank and hold it securely. A USB-C port is also available for connecting to a smartphone, enabling users to back up data or capture high-resolution media, such as 4K or ProRes, without facing storage constraints. The SSD can be removed and utilized as a conventional external drive for laptops.

    Handy Features and Warranty

    Other notable features include a built-in kickstand for easy hands-free operation. The power bank’s dimensions are 4.2 x 2.86 x 0.88 inches, while the removable SSD measures 2.55 x 1.37 x 0.43 inches. Adata provides a one-year warranty for the power bank and a five-year warranty for the SSD.

    Adata has not yet shared information regarding pricing or when the product will be available.

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  • Sharp Launches Laser Projectors with 17,000 Lumens Brightness

    Sharp Launches Laser Projectors with 17,000 Lumens Brightness

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sharp has launched four new A series projectors (XP-A824U, XP-A104U, XP-A155U, XP-A175U) for professional use in classrooms and meeting spaces.
    2. All models feature a native WUXGA resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels and support 4K input, with brightness ranging from 7,500 to 16,000 ISO lumens.
    3. The projectors include a sealed LCD cooling system to minimize dust issues and offer features like geometric image tools and edge blending.
    4. They support multiple input options, including HDBaseT and dual HDMI, and are compatible with various control systems like Crestron and Extron.
    5. The XP-A824U projector starts at approximately $12,319 in the US and comes with a limited warranty for 20,000 hours or five years.


    Sharp has introduced four new A series projectors aimed at professionals: the XP-A824U, XP-A104U, XP-A155U, and XP-A175U. These projectors are now available in the US as part of the company’s updated selection, which also includes new V series models. They are tailored for use in classrooms and meeting spaces.

    Specifications and Features

    The Sharp A series projectors boast a native WUXGA resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels, along with the capability to support 4K input. Each model comes equipped with a dual blue laser light source and offers bright luminosity, making them suitable for use in brightly lit environments. The XP-A824U provides a brightness of up to 7,500 ISO lumens, while the XP-A104U reaches 9,000 ISO lumens. The XP-A155U shines at 14,000 ISO lumens, and the XP-A175U achieves a peak brightness of 16,000 ISO lumens.

    Additional Features

    Among the notable features of the A series is an LCD cooling system that is sealed to reduce dust-related issues. They include various tools for perfecting geometric images and an edge blending ability for setups using multiple projectors. Additionally, users can take advantage of picture-by-picture and picture-in-picture modes, with a variety of ports such as HDBaseT and dual HDMI (HDCP) inputs. Furthermore, these projectors are compatible with control systems like Crestron, Extron, AMX, and PJLink. Sharp backs these projectors with a limited warranty covering parts and labor for 20,000 hours or five years, whichever comes first.

    Pricing Information

    In the United States, the starting price for the Sharp A series XP-A824U projector is approximately $12,319 at retailers such as B&H Photo.

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  • DJI Neo 2 Hands-On Leaks Reveal Upgrades Over Neo Compact Drone

    DJI Neo 2 Hands-On Leaks Reveal Upgrades Over Neo Compact Drone

    Key Takeaways

    1. The DJI Neo 2 is set to launch soon, especially in China, with an event scheduled for October 30.
    2. The pricing for the Neo 2 in the US is expected to be around $229, including one battery.
    3. A Fly More Kit Bundle will be available for $449, which includes a Motion 3 controller, Goggles N3 adapter, a charging hub, and three batteries.
    4. New accessories for the Neo 2 will have increased prices compared to the original DJI Neo.
    5. The Neo 2 is expected to feature a Time of Flight (ToF) sensor and a small LED screen for text display.


    The DJI Neo 2 is getting closer to its launch, especially in China. For a while now, there have been talks about DJI launching a new version of its Neo drone (currently priced at $159 on Amazon). Just last week, the company announced an event on October 30 to showcase what seems to be a successor to the Neo.

    Pricing and Packages

    Since the announcement, more information has come out about pricing, official images, and other specifications. It looks like the Neo 2 will be priced around $229 in the US, which includes the drone and one battery. There will also be several package options available, including the Fly More Kit Bundle, which comes with a Motion 3 controller, a Goggles N3 adapter, a charging hub, and three batteries for $449. According to leaker Jasper Ellens, DJI will offer additional accessories as well.

    Accessories and Features

    As noted by the leaker, these add-ons have seen a price increase compared to those for the original DJI Neo. Additionally, recent images have shown a Time of Flight (ToF) sensor, similar to the one found on DJI’s Flip drone. It seems that the Neo 2 will also include a small LED screen for text display, following in the footsteps of the Flip. Unfortunately, there is still no word on when it will be released globally.

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