Category: Video / Photo

August 8, 2025
Xiaomi Launches Affordable Smart Camera 4C 3.5K with Upgraded Sensor
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi Smart Camera 4C features a 6 MP sensor, capable of recording videos at 3200 x 1800 pixels and offers clear images in low light thanks to AI enhancements.
2. Improved wireless connectivity with a dual-band WiFi 6 chip allows for better coverage and seamless mobile device previews.
3. The camera has smart tracking abilities, capable of identifying humans and pets, enhancing security monitoring.
4. Security features include the MJA1 security chip for encrypted cloud transmissions and a physical lens cover for privacy control.
5. Key specifications include a 360-degree horizontal viewing angle, 116-degree vertical coverage, support for cloud/NAS integration, a microSD card slot, and it is priced at CNY 199 (about $28) for pre-order in China.
The upgraded Xiaomi Smart Camera 4C has officially launched in China. This new security camera features a better 6 MP sensor compared to its predecessor. According to the company, it can record videos at a resolution of 3200 x 1800 pixels. Thanks to its AI-enhanced capabilities, the camera is said to provide clear images even in low-light conditions.
Enhanced Connectivity Features
Xiaomi has also improved the wireless connectivity of the Smart Camera 4C. It comes with a sophisticated dual-band WiFi 6 chip that offers better coverage than the earlier model. This enhancement allows for seamless previews on mobile devices, ensuring users can easily monitor their surroundings.
Smart Tracking Abilities
As with many of Xiaomi’s security cameras, the Smart Camera 4C 3.5K can identify humans and pets. Users will also be able to monitor movements within the camera’s detection range, enhancing security and peace of mind.
In terms of security features, the smart camera is equipped with the MJA1 security chip, which provides encryption for cloud transmissions. Additionally, there is a physical lens cover that allows users to obstruct the camera’s view at chosen times or when manually adjusted.
Key Specifications and Pricing
The Smart Camera 4C 3.5K boasts a horizontal viewing angle of 360 degrees and 116 degrees of vertical coverage. It supports both cloud and NAS integration, includes a physical microSD card slot (256 GB SanDisk microSDXC is currently priced at $24.99 on Amazon), and features 940 nm infrared fill lights. Currently, the updated security camera is available for pre-order in China at CNY 199, which translates to about $28. Although Xiaomi has not yet revealed when it will launch worldwide, it may debut as part of the C-series lineup.
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Tags: WiFi 6, Xiaomi
August 7, 2025
LG CineBeam S Mini Projector: European Release Details Confirmed
Key Takeaways
1. The LG CineBeam S Mini UST 4K Projector can be pre-ordered in Europe starting September 1st, with shipping expected in October.
2. The retail price for the projector in Europe is set at €1,299.
3. The projector features a brightness of up to 500 ANSI lumens and can project images up to 100 inches with a 0.25:1 ultra-short throw ratio.
4. It supports HDR10 content, has Filmmaker Mode, and offers access to streaming services via LG webOS 24.
5. The projector includes two built-in Dolby Atmos speakers and various connection ports like HDMI eARC and USB-C, with dimensions of 160 x 160 x 110 mm.
LG has shared additional information regarding the release of the CineBeam S Mini UST 4K Projector in Europe. This projector first made its debut in August 2025 and is currently available for purchase in regions like Canada, Australia, and the UK.
Pre-Order Details
As per LG’s announcement, customers in various European nations can start pre-ordering the CineBeam S projector beginning September 1st. The expected arrival of stock is in October, when shipping will begin. Earlier this year, the company disclosed that the retail price for this device will be €1,299 in the European market.
Projector Specifications
The CineBeam S projector is an RGB laser type, boasting a brightness of up to 500 ANSI lumens. Referred to as the PU615U, it features an ultra-short throw ratio of 0.25:1 and can project images up to 100 inches (~254 cm) in size. This DLP projector covers 154% of the DCI-P3 color space and has a dynamic contrast ratio of 450,000:1.
Additional Features
This projector comes equipped with various functionalities, such as wall color and automatic screen adjustments, Filmmaker Mode, and HDR10 content support. Users can access numerous streaming services via LG webOS 24 or can wirelessly share content from their mobile devices utilizing Apple AirPlay 2 or Miracast. Additionally, it includes two built-in Dolby Atmos speakers and connection ports like HDMI eARC and USB-C. Its dimensions are 160 x 160 x 110 mm (~6.3 x 6.3 x 4.3 inches), and it has a sleek silver metallic finish.
It’s still unclear when the LG CineBeam S Mini UST 4K Projector will hit the US market and how much it will cost.
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Tags: 4K Projector, LG CineBeam S, PU615U
August 7, 2025
MrBeast Drinks Urine Water to Raise $40M for Charity
Key Takeaways
1. MrBeast and Mark Rober teamed up for extreme challenges, including drinking purified water from a flush toilet and urine.
2. The main goal of their experiment is to raise $40 million for Team Water, aiming to provide clean water to 2 billion people worldwide.
3. The process of reverse osmosis involves pushing water through a semi-permeable membrane using external pressure.
4. They collaborated with GivePower, a non-profit that creates solar-powered water filtration systems using reverse osmosis technology.
5. GivePower focuses on energy efficiency by designing advanced solar panels, pumps, and batteries to maximize water filtration capabilities.
In a new YouTube video, MrBeast teamed up with Mark Rober to take on some pretty extreme challenges that most people would find unappealing. Mark Rober went the extra mile by drinking water that was purified from a flush toilet, while MrBeast had the unenviable task of drinking water that was filtered and purified from his own urine.
Raising Funds for Clean Water
The main goal of their unusual experiment was to raise a whopping $40 million for Team Water, a charitable initiative that seeks to provide access to drinkable water for 2 billion individuals worldwide.
Understanding Reverse Osmosis
The process of osmosis involves water moving through a semi-permeable membrane from a place of higher concentration to a place of lower concentration. In contrast, reverse osmosis works by applying external pressure to push water from a higher concentration area to a lower one.
How the Process Works
For this video project, the creators collaborated with GivePower, a non-profit organization dedicated to solar-powered solutions. GivePower specializes in creating portable water filtration systems that utilize reverse osmosis technology housed in shipping containers, all powered by solar energy. Each of these systems can generate an impressive 70,000 liters of water every single day.
Efficient Water Filtration
Reverse osmosis requires a lot of energy, which can be a challenge. To tackle this issue, GivePower has partnered with top companies to design highly efficient solar panels, pumps, and batteries, resulting in an advanced system that maximizes energy use.
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Tags: Mark Rober, MrBeast
August 6, 2025
Vivo X200 Ultra Ranks Second in DxOMark Camera Test
Key Takeaways
1. The Vivo X200 Ultra scored 167 points in DxOMark’s review, making it a top camera flagship, just behind the Oppo Find X8 Ultra.
2. It outperformed major competitors like Huawei Pura 70 Ultra, Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max, Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Xiaomi 15 Ultra in zoom evaluations.
3. Reviewers praised the Vivo X200 Ultra for excellent exposure in portrait images, sharp detail, and reliable autofocus in various lighting conditions.
4. The ultrawide-angle camera performed well in low-light situations, with impressive detail captured in zoom shots up to 10x.
5. Minor issues were noted with white balance and autofocus in low-light conditions, as well as some loss of detail and increased noise in low-light video recordings.
Although the assessments and camera evaluations from DxOMark often face scrutiny, it remains a leading testing laboratory in the smartphone and camera field. Recently, they published their review of the Vivo X200 Ultra, which quickly secured a top position among the best camera flagships. With a score of 167 points, it falls just two points shy of the top spot held by the Oppo Find X8 Ultra.
Competing with the Best
This new Zeiss camera flagship has surpassed several competitors, including the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra, Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max, Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Xiaomi 15 Ultra featuring Leica optics. In their zoom evaluation, the Vivo X200 Ultra even outperformed all other flagship cameras. A detailed comparison of the Vivo X200 Ultra and the Find X8 Ultra shows that the Oppo device earned slightly higher points in categories like portrait shots, indoor and outdoor images, and low-light photography. Nonetheless, the differences are quite small.
Testers’ Insights
The reviewers commend the Vivo X200 Ultra for its superb exposure in portrait images, as well as its sharp detail and reliable autofocus in both daylight and indoor settings. The ultrawide-angle camera also stands out, delivering impressive detail in low-light conditions, which was also apparent in zoom shots up to roughly 10x. When it comes to video capabilities, the testers noted the good exposure and efficient autofocus performance.
However, DxOMark pointed out some minor issues with white balance and autofocus in low-light environments, along with daylight video. In low-light video recordings, experts observed a loss of detail and a rise in noise levels. Occasionally, halo artifacts were also noticed. For a comprehensive review of the Vivo X200 Ultra’s camera performance, you can find it here.
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Tags: DxOMark, Oppo Find X8 Ultra, Vivo X200 Ultra
August 6, 2025
DJI Mini 360: Lightweight Panoramic Drone Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. DJI’s Mini 5 Pro is expected to launch soon, with recent leaks of retail packaging and images.
2. DJI plans to introduce two new drones under 250 g by the end of the year.
3. A panoramic drone is in development, set to compete with Insta360’s Antigravity drone, scheduled for release by 2026.
4. The anticipated DJI panoramic drone may feature Osmo 360 camera technology, weigh under 250 g, and support 8K/360-degree video.
5. The new drone could be priced over CNY 5,000 (around $695), making it slightly more expensive than its competitor.
Rumors about DJI’s upcoming Mini 5 Pro have been floating around since December 2024. Recently, some retail packaging and a high-quality image of the product leaked, suggesting that the official launch might be happening soon. New reports indicate that DJI plans to unveil two drones weighing less than 250 g before the year ends.
New Developments in Drone Technology
Recent reports from Chinese media reveal that DJI is also set to roll out a panoramic drone by 2026, capable of capturing 360-degree videos. This new drone is said to be designed to compete with the Antigravity drone that Insta360 teased just last week. Interestingly, there is already a hands-on video available online showcasing the Antigravity drone.
Expectations for the Panoramic Drone
The upcoming DJI drone is expected to utilize the camera technology recently featured in the Osmo 360. Furthermore, it is anticipated to weigh under 250 g to qualify for a C0 classification. This device is likely to belong to the Mini series and could be called something like the Mini 360, following the update that came almost two years ago with the Mini 4 Pro (currently priced at $1,889 on Amazon).
At this moment, the unnamed DJI drone is anticipated to support 8K/360-degree video recording thanks to a three-axis mechanical gimbal, boasting a battery life of up to 30 minutes and a range of 10 km. DJI is expected to price this new drone at over CNY 5,000 (around $695), which would make it slightly pricier than its competitor, the Antigravity drone.
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Tags: DJI Mini 5 Pro
August 6, 2025
DJI Osmo 360 Firmware and App Updates: New Features Added
Key Takeaways
1. DJI has enhanced the Osmo 360 camera with new firmware and app updates to improve video quality and features.
2. The firmware update introduces a SuperNight mode for better low-light video recording in 6K or 8K.
3. An ‘Endurance Mode’ has been added to potentially increase battery life, particularly in Panoramic Video mode.
4. The Mimo app now includes Pro Colour Grading presets, multiple aspect ratio supports, and new features for recording selfies and sports data tracking.
5. The Osmo 360 is now competing directly with the updated Insta360 X5 and hints of the GoPro Max 2 are emerging.
DJI has quickly made enhancements to its first 360-degree camera. Released last week, the Osmo 360 is now in direct competition with the Insta360 X5, which has just been updated with a new limited edition version. Furthermore, it seems that the GoPro Max 2 is on the horizon based on recent hints.
Firmware and App Updates
Recently, DJI rolled out post-launch firmware and Mimo app updates that are claimed to enhance the Osmo 360 in several aspects. The firmware v01.01.06.20 introduces a SuperNight mode, allowing users to record 6K or 8K videos at 24, 25, or 30 FPS in low-light conditions, with better color handling as well. This update also permits 5K and 50/60 FPS recording options in the Single Lens video mode while shooting in a 4:3 aspect ratio.
Battery Life and Compatibility
The new firmware also brings what DJI calls an ‘Endurance Mode’. This mode appears to be designed to increase battery life and seems to be linked to the Osmo 360’s Panoramic Video mode for now. However, it remains unclear how this mode specifically enhances battery longevity. Additionally, firmware v01.01.06.20 offers support for the Osmo Action GPS Bluetooth Remote Controller, currently priced at $73 on Amazon.
Mimo App Features
On the other hand, Mimo app version 2.3.1 adds Pro Colour Grading presets, five aspect ratio supports, mirror-flipping for those recording selfies, and a new tool for watermark positioning. It seems the app update also introduces direct sports data tracking and a cadence sticker for runners.
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Tags: DJI, firmware update, Osmo 360
August 6, 2025
Stars 200 Times Bigger Than Sun: Stunning Tarantula Image by ESA
Key Takeaways
1. Wolf-Rayet stars are massive, hot, and bright, shedding their outer hydrogen layer and creating strong stellar winds.
2. The Tarantula Nebula is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, about 160,000 light-years from Earth.
3. It is the largest and brightest star-forming region among nearby galaxies in the Milky Way group.
4. Hubble has recently focused on a specific area near a Wolf-Rayet star in the Tarantula Nebula.
5. The image of the Tarantula Nebula was captured using data from the Scylla program, in collaboration with the ULLYSSES initiative.
Since the launch of Hubble in 1990, the Tarantula Nebula has been a regular subject of interest. Recently, Hubble has focused on a specific area near a rare type of star in the nebula, reffered to as a Wolf-Rayet star.
Characteristics of Wolf-Rayet Stars
Wolf-Rayet stars are enormous, roughly 20 times heavier than our Sun, and they are at a later stage in their life cycle. These stars are incredibly hot and bright, having shed their outer hydrogen layer, which creates strong and dense stellar winds.
Location of the Tarantula Nebula
The Tarantula Nebula is found within the Large Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy roughly 160,000 light-years from Earth, situated in the constellations Dorado and Mensa. This dwarf galaxy is a satellite of the Milky Way, which is the largest among the many small galaxies that orbit our galaxy.
Star-Forming Regions
This galaxy contains multiple areas where stars are forming, but the Tarantula Nebula stands out as the largest and most luminous. It holds the title of the biggest and brightest star-forming region among all the nearby galaxies that are part of the Milky Way group.
The image captured of the Tarantula Nebula was made using data collected from Scylla, an observational program. This program works alongside another Hubble initiative known as ULLYSSES (Ultraviolet Legacy Library of Young Stars as Essential Standards). While ULLYSSES concentrates on young giant stars in both the Small and Large Magellanic Clouds, Scylla investigates the interstellar medium that surrounds these regions.
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Tags: Hubble Space Telescope
August 6, 2025
Anker Nebula X1 Review: Bright 4K Laser Projector for Outdoors
Key Takeaways
1. The Anker Nebula X1 is a high-end portable projector priced at $2,999, designed for both indoor and outdoor use.
2. It features Anker’s triple-laser technology, providing 4K image quality with brightness levels up to 3,500 lumens, ideal for various lighting conditions.
3. While it performs best in darkened indoor settings, it can still create a good outdoor experience if used in shaded areas or during twilight.
4. The projector requires an outlet or power station for use, as it lacks a built-in battery, and offers automatic alignment and optimization.
5. The Nebula X1 can be stored in a carrying case (sold separately) and can be paired with external Bluetooth speakers for enhanced sound quality.
A home theater experience can extend beyond the confines of your home. People can enjoy films, sports, and various events on a large screen outside, whether in their backyard or during a camping trip. In such cases, a suitable projector like the Anker Nebula X1 is worth considering.
Testing the Portable Projector
We evaluated the portable laser projector for a few weeks, using it in different environments, from our living room to camping sites and backyards. It quickly became apparent that the Nebula X1 distinguishes itself from many other portable projectors. It weighs over 13 lb and is priced at $2,999 on Amazon, indicating that it’s certainly a significant investment.
More than Just a Projector
However, the Anker Nebula X1 provides more features than most budget-friendly portable projectors. For example, it comes with top-notch specifications, featuring Anker’s triple-laser technology that delivers a 4K image with brightness levels reaching up to 3,500 lumens. This brightness is essential for outdoor use in daylight conditions.
During our testing, we found that even the bright Nebula X1 struggles against direct sunlight, which we anticipated. Yet, when the screen is positioned in a shaded area or the projector is utilized during twilight while camping or relaxing in the backyard, it can create a remarkable outdoor home theater experience.
Indoor Performance and Storage
Regardless, the 4K projector shines brightest indoors in a darkened setting. It lacks a built-in battery, so you’ll need an outlet or a power station. Users considering the Anker Nebula X1 can expect completely automatic alignment and optimization, along with outstanding 4K visual quality.
After use, the projector can be conveniently stored in its designated carrying case, which must be purchased separately. There’s also a package deal that includes two external Bluetooth speakers, effectively forming a 4.1.2-channel sound system. Our detailed review of the Anker Nebula X1 covers more on the sound quality and additional features of this premium 4K laser projector.
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Tags: 4K Projector, Anker
August 5, 2025
Insta360 X5: Updated 360-Degree Camera After DJI Osmo Release
Key Takeaways
1. Insta360 launched the X5 BMW Motorrad Edition with BMW branding and included a Mini Remote.
2. The new Satin White Limited Edition enhances the elegance of the existing Insta360 X5 without changing the core hardware.
3. The camera features a 1/1.28-inch sensor, capturing 360-degree video up to 8K at 30 FPS or 5.7K at 60 FPS.
4. The Satin White Limited Edition is priced at $549, including a year’s subscription to Insta360+ and 1 TB of cloud storage.
5. Different bundle options are available for the Satin White Limited Edition, with prices ranging from $549 to $659.99, but it is not available in the same bundles as the Midnight Black version.
Roughly a month has passed since Insta360 launched the X5 BMW Motorrad Edition, featuring the distinctive BMW Motorrad branding. As previously mentioned, this collaboration also came with the Mini Remote, which is typically sold separately (currently priced at $29.99 on Amazon) along with other Insta360 X5 packages.
New Satin White Limited Edition
Recently, the company has begun offering the Satin White Limited Edition, which they describe as a ‘premium colourway’ that ‘enhances the elegance’ of the 360-degree action camera available since April. It’s important to note that this new Satin White Limited Edition retains the same core hardware as the original Insta360 X5.
Technical Specifications
This new offering sports a 1/1.28-inch camera sensor capable of capturing 360-degree video in resolutions of up to 8K at 30 FPS or 5.7K at 60 FPS. Furthermore, the Satin White Limited Edition is expected to operate for more than 3 hours on its 2,400 mAh battery when recording at the latter resolution. For additional hardware details, you can refer to our initial article on the Insta360 X5 launch.
Pricing and Bundles
Insta360 has set the price for the Satin White Limited Edition at $549, which includes a Standard Bundle featuring a year’s subscription to Insta360+ along with 1 TB of cloud storage. Alternatively, you can get the Starter Bundle or Essentials Bundle for $599 and $659.99, respectively. Interestingly, Insta360 has chosen not to provide the Satin White Limited Edition in the same bundles as the standard Midnight Black version. More information regarding the new Satin White edition can be found on Insta360’s official website.
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Tags: Insta360 X5, Satin White Limited Edition
August 5, 2025
HoverAir Aqua: New 4K Waterproof Drone Under 249g
Key Takeaways
1. The HoverAir Aqua is designed to float on water, making it unique among drones.
2. It weighs about 249 g, qualifying it for a C0 drone classification in many regions.
3. The drone is expected to compete with the DJI Mini 4 Pro rather than the DJI Neo.
4. It has a top speed of approximately 15 m/s (55 kph) and can withstand wind speeds of up to 17 m/s (61 kph).
5. The HoverAir Aqua will feature a 4K video recording capability at 100 FPS with a 1/1.3-inch camera sensor, but its release date is yet to be announced.
Zero Zero Robotics has revealed additional information about its upcoming HoverAir drone models. The company is known primarily for its HoverAir X1 series, which is currently priced at $349 on Amazon. In contrast to the DJI Neo, Zero Zero is taking a unique direction with the new HoverAir Aqua.
Unique Design for Water Use
As mentioned previously, the HoverAir Aqua is designed to float on water, setting it apart from other drones. This means it will be one of the few drones capable of flying over or close to bodies of water like rivers, seas, and oceans. The HoverAir Aqua is said to weigh about 249 g, which should qualify it for a C0 drone classification in many regions.
Performance and Comparison
In this regard, the HoverAir Aqua seems to be more of a competitor to the DJI Mini 4 Pro rather than the DJI Neo. The Aqua is expected to have a top speed of roughly 15 m/s (55 kph) and is also reported to withstand wind speeds of up to 17 m/s (61 kph).
Availability and Features
At the moment, there is no information on when the HoverAir Aqua will hit the market. Zero Zero has confirmed that the drone will be able to record videos in 4K at 100 FPS, thanks to its 1/1.3-inch camera sensor. For more details on Zero Zero’s upcoming drone, check out the YouTube Short linked below.
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Tags: 4K Drone, HoverAir Aqua, Zero Zero Robotics