Category: Video / Photo

March 26, 2025
Insta360 Ace Pro & Pro 2 Upgrade with New Xplorer Grip Kit
Key Takeaways
1. The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is a compact action camera, measuring 72 x 52 x 38 mm, making it easy to attach to handlebars or tripods.
2. The new Xplorer Grip Kit improves handling and includes a wrist strap for secure one-handed use.
3. The Xplorer Grip Kit features a cold shoe shutter button, allowing the Ace Pro 2 to operate like a traditional camera, though settings must be adjusted via the touchscreen.
4. The Xplorer Grip Kit is priced at $84.99, while the Xplorer Bundle options are available for $419 (single battery) and $439 (dual battery).
5. The Xplorer Grip Kit is compatible with both the Insta360 Ace Pro and Ace Pro 2.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 has been available for some time now, first introduced in October 2024. As we noted previously, the Ace Pro 2 is quite small, measuring 72 x 52 x 38 mm. This compact size makes it perfect for attaching to handlebars or a tripod, but it does leave little to hold onto when you’re using it by hand.
New Accessory for Better Grip
In response to this issue, the company has launched the Xplorer Grip Kit, which is also suitable for the Insta360 Ace Pro (currently priced at $279 on Amazon). As shown in the video below, either action camera fits into this new accessory, and a wrist strap is included to help keep it secure while shooting with one hand.
Enhanced Functionality
Insta360 has added a special cold shoe shutter button that enables the Ace Pro 2 to function like a traditional compact camera. However, to adjust any settings, users will need to go back to the Ace Pro or Ace Pro 2’s touchscreen. Additionally, the Xplorer Grip 2 comes with three mounting points for attaching extra accessories.
Pricing Options
You can purchase the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Grip Kit separately for $84.99. Alternatively, Insta360 offers the Xplorer Bundle for $419 for the single battery version and $439 for the dual battery option. To give some context, these prices are just above the Standard and Get-Set bundles available for the Ace Pro 2’s configurations.
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Tags: action camera accessories, Insta360 Ace Pro 2, Xplorer Grip Kit
March 25, 2025
Sony’s 200 MP Sensor Set to Dominate Next-Gen Flagship Phones
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung has led the high-resolution camera sensor market with its 108 MP ISOCELL HM1 since the Galaxy S20 Ultra.
2. Sony is set to launch its first 200 MP CMOS sensor, featuring a larger size of 1/1.1″ compared to Samsung’s smaller 1/1.3″ and 1/1.4″ sensors.
3. Sony’s new sensor will utilize 16-in-1 pixel binning technology, yielding larger pixels for improved image quality.
4. The upcoming Sony 200 MP sensor is expected to become the top choice for flagship smartphones next year.
5. Future flagship models may feature a dual camera setup using Sony’s 200 MP sensor alongside Samsung’s ISOCELL HP9 for enhanced photography options.
Samsung’s camera division has always been a leader in the race for high-resolution sensors, beginning with the 108 MP ISOCELL HM1 that was introduced with the Galaxy S20 Ultra. However, this landscape may be changing soon as Sony appears ready to unveil a new 200 MP sensor for its flagship devices.
Sony’s New Sensor Launch
According to reports from Digital Chat Station, Sony is on the verge of launching its inaugural 200 MP CMOS sensor. This announcement follows the release of other 200 MP sensors, including Samsung’s ISOCELL HP2 and HP9, along with Omnivision’s OVB0B. What sets Sony’s 200 MP sensor apart is its larger physical size; the source indicates it will measure 1/1.1″. In contrast, the ISOCELL HP2 and HP9 sensors are smaller at 1/1.3″ and 1/1.4″, respectively.
Expectations for the Future
Given these details, it is anticipated that Sony’s forthcoming 200 MP sensor will be the preferred choice for the next generation of flagship smartphones. Its 16-in-1 pixel binning technology will provide larger pixels, surpassing even the 1-inch LYT900 found in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Allegedly, numerous flagship models launching next year could feature a dual 200 MP configuration, utilizing Sony’s new sensor as the primary camera and pairing it with the ISOCELL HP9 in a periscope setup, similar to the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
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Tags: Samsung ISOCELL, Sony 200 MP, Xiaomi 15 Ultra
March 25, 2025
GoPro Launches $129.99 Anamorphic Lens Mod for Hero 13 Black
Key Takeaways
1. GoPro launched the Hero 13 Black action camera and three new HB-Series lenses, including the recently released Anamorphic Lens Mod.
2. The Anamorphic Lens Mod captures footage in a 21:9 aspect ratio and adds lens flares, enhancing the cinematic quality of videos.
3. Prices for the lenses: Anamorphic Lens Mod at $129.99, Ultra Wide Lens Mod at $99.99, and Macro Lens Mod at $129.99.
4. GoPro offers a bundle of all three lenses with four ND filters for $349.99, saving customers money compared to purchasing items separately.
5. A future bundle with the Hero 13 Black and the HB-Series Lens Collection will be available for $699.99, saving over $125 compared to separate purchases.
When GoPro revealed the Hero 13 Black action camera in September, they also unveiled three new HB-Series lenses designed for it. Among these, two lenses — the Ultra Wide Lens Mod and the Macro Lens Mod — have been for sale since last year. However, the third lens, known as the Anamorphic Lens Mod, has just recently hit the shelves.
Unique Features of the Anamorphic Lens Mod
When users attach the Anamorphic Lens Mod to the GoPro Hero 13 Black, they can capture footage in an ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio, which gives a movie-like experience. This lens mod also introduces lens flares, enhancing the visual appeal of the videos. A great feature is that the Hero 13 Black (currently priced at $329.99 on Amazon) automatically modifies its settings when the lens is added and reverts to its original settings once the lens is taken off.
Pricing and Availability of the Lenses
The Anamorphic Lens Mod, which is both scratch-resistant and waterproof, retails for $129.99 and can be found in the GoPro shop. The Ultra Wide Lens Mod has a price tag of $99.99, while the Macro Lens Mod is also available for $129.99. GoPro is promoting a bundle called the HB-Series Lens Collection, which includes all three lenses along with a set of four ND filters for $349.99. This deal is quite reasonable for anyone looking to get all the accessories since buying each lens and the filter pack separately totals up to $425.96.
Future Bundle Offerings
Reports indicate that GoPro will provide a bundle featuring the HB-Series Lens Collection along with the Hero 13 Black for $699.99, which would save consumers over $125 if they were to buy the items separately. However, it’s important to note that this particular bundle won’t be available until the next quarter.
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Tags: Anamorphic Lens Mod, GoPro Hero 13 Black, HB-Series Lens Collection
March 25, 2025
Leica M11-V Launching Soon: Compact Full-Frame Camera Details
Key Takeaways
1. Leica is developing a new camera model, the M11-V, derived from the M11-P, featuring an electronic viewfinder (EVF) instead of a traditional rangefinder.
2. The EVF offers benefits like displaying precise image area, depth of field, and exposure settings before capturing a photo, along with potential lower pricing and maintenance costs.
3. The M11-V will sacrifice some advantages of the classic viewfinder, such as the ability to see outside the frame and manual focusing efficiency.
4. The camera is expected to maintain key specifications from the M11-P, including a 60.3 MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB internal storage, an SD card slot, and dedicated dials for shutter speed and ISO.
5. Growing anticipation for the Leica M11-V highlights its appeal to both professional and amateur photographers, combining modern features with Leica’s traditional craftsmanship.
According to some recent updates from LeicaRumors, the well-known German camera brand Leica is working on a new model derived from the Leica M11-P, but it won’t have the classic rangefinder. Instead, this new camera is expected to include an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which was previously available only as an extra add-on through the Leica Visoflex 2.
Benefits of the EVF
Using an electronic viewfinder brings many important benefits compared to the traditional rangefinder. For instance, the viewfinder’s display lets photographers see the precise image area, depth of field, and exposure settings before they take a shot. Furthermore, the upcoming Leica M11-V might come at a more affordable price since the costly rangefinder feature is being eliminated. This change could also lead to lower maintenance costs, as electronic viewfinders don’t need the readjustment that rangefinders do.
Trade-offs to Consider
On the flip side, switching to an electrical viewfinder means that the Leica M11-V will forfeit some perks of the classic viewfinder, like being able to see outside the frame or manually focusing rapidly and accurately. There are already hints about the Leica M11-V within the Leica Photos iPhone app, leading LeicaRumors to believe that the camera’s release is just around the corner. Besides the viewfinder, it seems that the camera will still be based on the Leica M11-P, so it’s likely that Leica will once again include a 60.3 MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB of internal storage, an SD card slot, and separate dials for shutter speed and ISO settings.
Anticipation for the New Model
The anticipation around the Leica M11-V is growing, especially with the promise of advanced features and a competitive price. As technology continues to evolve, this new camera could attract both professional and amateur photographers alike. The combination of modern features with Leica’s traditional craftsmanship might just make this new model a must-have for enthusiasts.
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Tags: electronic viewfinder, Leica M11-P, Leica M11-V
March 24, 2025
GoPro Hero 13 Black White Variant: Why the Original is Better
Key Takeaways
1. The GoPro Hero 13 Black was revealed in September 2024 and is available in a new color option, Polar White, alongside the traditional black model.
2. The Polar White version has the same features as the black model, with no functional differences, but offers a fresh look for users who prefer it.
3. The pricing for both the Polar White and black GoPro Hero 13 Black is $399.99, but the black model is currently available at a discounted price of $329.99.
4. GoPro is offering a $70 discount on the black Hero 13 Black, which is about an 18% reduction from its initial price.
5. Prices mentioned are subject to change, and Notebookcheck is not responsible for any price fluctuations by retailers.
The GoPro Hero 13 Black is the newest action camera from GoPro. It was revealed in September 2024 and is sold in a single black or dark gray option. Recently, GoPro introduced a new color called Polar White.
New Color Option
The Polar White version of the GoPro Hero 13 Black shares all the same features as the black model. There aren’t any functional differences between the two. That said, some users who find the traditional black color dull might like the fresh white look better. It’s worth noting that the camera isn’t fully white; the bezels surrounding the displays and lens remain black. The mounting system underneath is also black, while the GoPro logo and model name appear in blue.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, the Polar White GoPro Hero 13 is priced at $399.99 on the GoPro online store, which is the same price as the original black version when it first launched. However, if you don’t have a strong preference for the white model, it’s advisable to consider the black one, which is now available at a lower price.
GoPro is providing a $70 discount on the black Hero 13 Black, which represents about an 18% reduction from its initial price. You can also find it on Amazon for the discounted price of $329.99, although that price is still higher than the DJI Osmo Action 4, which is currently offered at $209 (30% off) on Amazon.
Important Note
Please remember that Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The offers and prices mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of writing and may be limited in time or availability.
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Tags: action camera, GoPro Hero 13 Black, Polar White
March 21, 2025
Fujifilm GFX100RF: 102MP Medium Format Compact Camera Unveiled
Key Takeaways
1. The Fujifilm GFX100RF features a 102 MP medium format sensor for superior image quality.
2. It has a classic design with a metal body, leather covering, and manual controls for shutter speed, ISO, and aperture.
3. The camera includes a compact 35 mm f/4 lens with advanced elements for improved clarity and a quiet leaf shutter.
4. It is equipped with a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a 3.15-inch tilting touchscreen, supporting 4K video recording.
5. The GFX100RF will be released in April with a retail price of $4,899 / £4,699 / €5,499.
Whilst it seeks to build on the triumph of the X100 VI, the Fujifilm GFX100RF is crafted to provide even superior image quality thanks to its 102 MP medium format sensor. The “RF” in its title indicates “rangefinder-style fixed lens,” highlighting the camera’s unique design.
Classic Design Features
The GFX100RF features the traditional Fujifilm aesthetic, combining a metal body available in black or silver with a covering of black leather. With an aperture ring on the lens and dedicated dials for shutter speed and ISO settings, users can enjoy complete manual control without having to delve into menus. Unique elements include an aspect ratio dial that allows switching between formats, from 1:1 square to 65:25 panorama shots. Additionally, Fujifilm’s “digital teleconverter” employs digital zoom to emulate lenses with focal lengths of 45 mm, 63 mm, or 80 mm.
Compact and Efficient Lens
To maintain the compact size of the GFX100RF, Fujifilm has chosen a relatively slow 35 mm f/4 lens, which corresponds to 28 mm f/3.2 in 35 mm photography. The lens consists of ten elements organized into eight groups, featuring two aspherical elements that enhance image clarity. It can focus on subjects as near as 20 cm (7.9 in). It’s important to mention that Fujifilm measures this distance from the lens’ front element, unlike the sensor, which is the common practice. The camera’s leaf shutter also contributes to its notably quiet operation.
Advanced Viewfinder Technology
Interestingly, Fujifilm opted not to incorporate a hybrid viewfinder like that of the X100 VI. Instead, the GFX100RF is equipped with a high-resolution electronic viewfinder boasting 5.76 million dots, in addition to a 3.15-inch tilting touchscreen that has a 3:2 aspect ratio. The camera features a 102 MP medium format sensor, enabling it to record 4K videos at 30 fps. Completing the features are Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, and a high-speed USB-C port that supports 10 Gbps.
The Fujifilm GFX100RF is scheduled to be released in April, with a retail price of $4,899 / £4,699 / €5,499. For further details, you can check out the official product page regarding the GFX100RF.
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Tags: 102 MP medium format, Fujifilm GFX100RF, rangefinder-style camera
March 21, 2025
Xgimi Launches Award-Winning Play 6 and Play 6e Projectors
Key Takeaways
1. The Xgimi Play 6 and Play 6e are portable 1080p projectors with improved brightness and a new 360° gimbal stand design.
2. The Play 6 features a 20,000mAh battery for 2.5 hours of playback, while the Play 6e requires USB-C power and both have 12W audio with Dolby support.
3. Both models cover 124% of the Rec. 709 color gamut and support HDR10 and HLG, making them suitable for gaming with low latency.
4. The Play 6 is priced at CNY 2,099 (around $290) and the Play 6e at CNY 1,799 (around $249), with plans for potential international availability.
5. Both projectors have won the iF Design Award for 2025, highlighting their design quality.
Xgimi has revealed the new Play 6 and Play 6e projectors in China. These 1080p devices have been teased on social media for a few days and are the successors to the Play 5, which is known globally as the MoGo 3 Pro. Now, all the specifications for these projectors are out.
Design and Features
The Play 6 and Play 6e are portable DLP projectors that come with a hidden 360° gimbal stand, an upgrade from the Play 5’s 130° rotating built-in stand. These newer models are also brighter, providing 600 CVIA (500 ISO) lumens, whereas the Play 5 only offered up to 500 CVIA (450 ISO) lumens. They cover 124% of the Rec. 709 color gamut and include MEMC motion smoothing, plus support for HDR10 and HLG. A notable change from the Play 5 is the switch from a micro HDMI port to a standard HDMI port on the newer projectors. Additionally, Xgimi claims that the low latency makes the Play 6 series projectors good for gaming, including with a Nintendo Switch (currently priced at $299 on Amazon).
Battery and Audio
The Play 6 is equipped with a 20,000mAh built-in battery, allowing up to 2.5 hours of video playback, and it charges via USB-C. In contrast, the Play 6e needs to be powered through the USB-C port. Both models have 12W speakers, with the Play 6e having Xgimi branding while the Play 6 features Harman Kardon audio, both supporting Dolby Audio. The Play 6 includes a Mini Remote, which can be bought separately for the Play 6e. Moreover, the Play 6 comes with a Universal Mirror Set accessory, enabling users to create unique lighting effects using hand gestures.
Awards and Pricing
As anticipated, both projectors have received an iF Design Award for 2025. The prices for the Xgimi Play 6 and Play 6e are CNY 2,099 (about $290) and CNY 1,799 (around $249), respectively, in China. While Xgimi has not confirmed any plans to launch these projectors in other regions, the iF Design Awards page suggests that a version of this projector will be available in Australia (Oceania), Europe, and North America soon.
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Tags: DLP projectors, Xgimi Play 6, Xgimi Play 6e
March 21, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Release Date and Pricing Leaks Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. The Mavic 4 Pro is expected to launch earlier than anticipated on April 24, 2024.
2. The base price for the Mavic 4 Pro will be $2,250, including the RC 2 controller.
3. DJI will likely start promoting the Mavic 4 Pro around April 17, 2024.
4. The Fly More Combo will cost $3,200 and include additional accessories like extra batteries.
5. A higher-end ‘Creator Combo’ version is rumored to be priced at $4,400, featuring 512 GB storage and the new RC Pro 2 controller.
Jasper Ellens has recently revealed more information about the Mavic 4 Pro, just ahead of its much-anticipated launch. To summarize, the leaker had mentioned earlier in the week that DJI wouldn’t start promoting the Mavic 4 Pro until late April, hinting at a launch in early May.
Sooner Than Expected
Nevertheless, Ellens has now shared that the Mavic 4 Pro will be released earlier than many anticipated. In a post on DroneXL, the leaker claims that DJI’s upcoming high-end consumer drone will be available on April 24 for a price of $2,250, which includes the company’s RC 2 controller (currently priced at $369 on Amazon). This means that it’s likely DJI will begin teasing the Mavic 4 Pro around April 17, a week prior to the official release.
Pricing and Launch Details
Ellens also mentioned that the price will increase to $3,200 for the Fly More Combo, which may come with several extras like extra batteries. There are whispers about a third version as well, which is expected to be priced significantly higher at $4,400. This ‘Creator Combo’ option is said to not only feature 512 GB of built-in storage but also DJI’s new RC Pro 2 controller. Previous leaks suggest that the RC Pro 2 will have a display that can tilt away from the controller itself.
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Tags: DJI, Mavic 4 Pro, RC Pro 2
March 20, 2025
ZLL SG909 Drone: 45 Min Flight Time & 4K Camera Features
Key Takeaways
1. The ZLL SG909 drone is priced starting at $205, with bundles available up to $352, making it accessible for everyday users.
2. It features a gimbal-mounted camera that captures images at 3840 x 2160 pixels, but 4K video recording is limited to 20 frames per second.
3. The drone has an optional obstacle avoidance feature and GPS navigation for automatic following.
4. It can fly in circles around objects, allowing for varied filming perspectives.
5. The ZLL SG909 has a flight duration of up to 45 minutes but weighs 1.65 lbs, exceeding the 250-gram limit important in some areas.
The ZLL SG909 is a newly released drone designed for everyday users, especially when considering its price point. You can find this drone on Aliexpress starting at about $205, while a bundle including three batteries, spare components, and a touchscreen remote can reach prices as high as $352. Regardless of the package you choose, it’s said that the drone offers a good range and a solid set of features.
Camera Capabilities
Like most modern drones, the SG909 features a camera mounted on a gimbal for better stabilization. It can capture images at a resolution of up to 3840 x 2160 pixels. However, it’s worth noting that 4K video recording is limited to 20 frames per second. The remote control supports video streaming at 1280 x 720 pixels, shown on a 5.5-inch display. ZLL asserts that video transmission can work effectively at a distance of up to 3.7 miles.
Additional Features
The manufacturer mentions that there is an optional obstacle avoidance feature that helps the drone avoid crashing into walls, trees, or other obstacles. Moreover, the SG909 is equipped with GPS navigation, which allows it to automatically follow its users.
Flight Performance
Additionally, this drone can fly in circles around objects or buildings, capturing videos and photos from various perspectives. On a final note, the ZLL SG909 boasts a flight duration of up to 45 minutes. However, it weighs 1.65 lbs (750 grams), which is above the 250-gram limit that is important in many areas.
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Tags: 4K camera, drone, ZLL SG909
March 20, 2025
Xgimi Play 6 and Play 6e Projectors: 360-Degree Gimbal Design
Key Takeaways
1. Affordable Pricing: The Xgimi Play 6 is priced at 2,099 yuan (around $290), and the Play 6e is 1,799 yuan (approximately $250), making them budget-friendly options.
2. Compact and Stylish Design: Both projectors have a sleek, modern appearance and are portable, measuring about the size of a cup of milk tea, with the Play 6 winning the 2025 German iF Design Award.
3. Strong Performance: They feature advanced DLP technology, support native 1080p resolution, and can play 2K and 4K content, with impressive brightness levels of 600 CVIA lumens.
4. Quality Audio and Connectivity: Equipped with dual 6W speakers, the Play 6 has Harman Kardon tuning, while the Play 6e features Dolby Audio. Both projectors support various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and Bluetooth 5.1.
5. User-Friendly Features: The projectors offer practical features like automatic keystone correction, fast autofocus, and run on GMUI 6.0. They also include support for HDR10/HLG and operate quietly at just 28dB.
Xgimi has recently launched two new portable projectors in China, named the Play 6 and Play 6e, both designed for providing a big-screen experience while being easy to carry. The pricing is quite accessible, making them good options for those on a budget. The Play 6 is priced at 2,099 yuan (approximately $290), while the Play 6e is a little cheaper at 1,799 yuan (around $250).
Sleek and Compact Design
These projectors have a clean and modern look, measuring about the size of a cup of milk tea, which makes them easy to place in your bag. The Play 6 has received the 2025 German iF Design Award, and it’s easy to see why that is the case. The built-in 360-degree gimbal not only adds elegance but also allows for smooth adjustments when projecting. Xgimi has also focused on practical features like automatic keystone correction and fast autofocus, allowing for quick setup even on uneven ground or at odd angles.
Impressive Performance Specs
Both projectors are equipped with advanced DLP technology and a 0.23-inch DMD chip, producing 600 CVIA lumens (around 500 ISO lumens). They support native 1080p resolution and can play 2K and 4K content as well. The throw ratios are 1.21:1 for the Play 6 and 1.2:1 for the Play 6e, allowing for large projections even in tight spaces like small apartments or hotel rooms.
Portability goes beyond just size; the Play 6 features a 20,000mAh battery that provides up to 2.5 hours of video playback and up to 6 hours for audio-only use. The Play 6e lacks a built-in battery, but both devices can act as Bluetooth ambient speakers when the projection lid is closed, complete with synchronized lighting.
Audio and Connectivity Features
Xgimi didn’t skimp on sound quality either, as both projectors have dual 6W speakers. The Play 6 features Harman Kardon tuning, while the Play 6e has Xgimi Sound with Dolby Audio and 360-degree surround sound. This promises a surprisingly rich audio experience for their compact size, whether you’re watching films or using them as standalone speakers.
Both projectors run on GMUI 6.0, powered by an MT9-series processor equipped with 1.5GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. They support wireless casting through AirPlay, DLNA, and XGIMI’s own application. The connectivity options are robust, including HDMI (eARC), USB, and Type-C ports, along with dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.1.
Xgimi has also included features like MEMC motion compensation, HDR10/HLG support, and its X-VUE picture engine to enhance color and detail. Remarkably, the projectors operate quietly at just 28dB while maintaining efficiency, with power consumption staying below 65W.
For anyone who’s always traveling but wants to keep enjoying big-screen entertainment, the Xgimi Play 6 and Play 6e are excellent choices that fit seamlessly into your active lifestyle. These projectors are also set to be released globally with MoGo branding later this year.
Tags: Play 6, Play 6e, XGIMI