Category: Video / Photo

March 5, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Leaks Reveal Camera Upgrades Over Mavic 3 Pro
Key Takeaways
1. DJI is preparing to launch a new consumer drone, the Mavic 4 Pro, following recent product releases like the Osmo Mobile 7.
2. High-quality photos of the Mavic 4 Pro’s exterior have been leaked, but official specifications are not expected soon.
3. The Mavic 4 Pro will feature a camera housing that can rotate 180 degrees, enhancing its versatility.
4. The drone will offer multiple zoom levels: 1.4x, 2.5x, and 6x.
5. The tilt capability of the Mavic 4 Pro will be improved to 70 degrees, up from 35 degrees in the Mavic 3 series.
It appears that DJI is getting ready to launch a new consumer drone. This year, the company has been busy working on other products like the Osmo Mobile 7 and Osmo Mobile 7P, which currently costs $149 on Amazon. Although DJI has not officially announced any new products yet, leaks have surfaced with exciting information about the upcoming Mavic 4 Pro, expected to be the next drone from DJI.
New Details Emerge
Recently, Quadro News shared some high-quality photos of the drone’s exterior, which can be seen below. The leaker mentioned that we likely won’t be seeing any official specs soon, which makes us wonder when the Mavic 4 Pro will actually hit the market.
Exciting Camera Features
In other news, Jasper Ellens disclosed that the upcoming Mavic drone will feature a camera housing that can rotate 180 degrees, offering zoom levels of 1.4x, 2.5x, and 6x. Ellens highlighted that this 180-degree rotation would allow the Mavic 4 Pro to capture images vertically, either above or below it while flying. Additionally, it will have a tilt capability of up to 70 degrees, a significant improvement over the 35 degrees available in the Mavic 3 series.
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Tags: DJI, Mavic 4 Pro, Osmo Mobile 7
March 4, 2025
Panasonic Set to Launch Compact Camera to Compete with Canon V1
Key Takeaways
1. Compact, fixed-lens cameras are gaining popularity again, with models like Fujifilm X100 series and Ricoh GR III leading the trend on social media.
2. Panasonic is developing a new versatile fixed-lens camera, likely an LX100 III, with a Micro Four Thirds sensor, responding to market demand.
3. The company aims to focus its next fixed-lens camera on general use, moving beyond specialized models for wildlife photography.
4. Competitive pricing will be crucial for Panasonic’s LX100 III, especially against rivals like Canon PowerShot V1 and Sony ZV-E10 II.
5. The demand for compact cameras remains strong, as seen by the continued higher prices for older models like the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II.
Compact, fixed-lens cameras seems to be coming back in style, partly due to the growing popularity of models like the Fujifilm X100 series and Ricoh GR III on social media platforms. Recently, Canon has re-entered the market with the Canon PowerShot V1, and it appears Panasonic is preparing to follow suit with a new fixed-lens camera that is nearly confirmed.
Panasonic’s New Development
During a recent discussion with Fegniao at CP+ 2025, Panasonic’s leaders stated that they are currently working on a versatile fixed-lens camera, although the exact release date remains uncertain. This development closely resembles the Panasonic Lumix LX100 series, and it would make the most sense to expect an LX100 III featuring a Micro Four Thirds sensor, especially considering the rise of APS-C cameras and Canon’s new 1.4-inch sensor embedded in the PowerShot V1 and the anticipated PowerShot V3.
Market Trends
Panasonic is well aware of the recovering demand in the fixed-lens camera sector. In light of this shift in consumer interest, the company is enthusiastic about the fixed-lens market and is actively planning to introduce new models. While the specific launch timing for these products isn’t yet clear, it’s evident that Panasonic is undertaking thorough consideration and strategy in this domain. -Fegniao (machine translation)
The executive team from Panasonic particularly highlights the achievements of the ZS99 and FZ80D, which are bridge cameras primarily designed for amateur bird and wildlife photography due to their impressive zoom capabilities. However, they also mention that the next fixed-lens camera will focus more on general use. Panasonic makes comparisons between smartphone photography and dedicated cameras, promoting the superior image quality and performance that dedicated cameras can offer over the more convenient smartphone alternatives.
Competitive Pricing Needed
Should Panasonic release an upgraded LX100 III, it will have to be very competitive in terms of pricing, considering the current market demand and its rivals. Besides the previously mentioned Canon PowerShot V1, which is expected to be priced between $900 and $1,000 in Western markets, Sony’s ZV-E10 II meets many similar needs at a cost of $1,098, complete with a 16–50 mm F3.5–5.6 kit lens.
Even though it launched back in 2018 with a retail price of $999, the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II is still found on platforms like Amazon for as much as $1,199 in used condition, clearly indicating that there is still a strong demand for compact cameras with a good-sized sensor.
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Tags: Canon PowerShot V1, Fujifilm X100, Panasonic Lumix LX100 III
March 4, 2025
Viltrox Launches 25mm F1.7 Lens for Travel and Street Photography
Key Takeaways
1. Lightweight Design: The Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air weighs only 170g, making it highly portable and ideal for photographers on the go.
2. Versatile Focal Length: It offers an effective focal length of 38mm, striking a balance between standard and wide-angle perspectives, suitable for various photography styles.
3. Excellent Low-Light Performance: The F1.7 aperture allows for great performance in low-light conditions and produces beautiful bokeh with its nine-blade diaphragm.
4. Advanced Autofocus Features: The lens includes a stepping motor for smooth and quiet autofocus, with eye and face detection, making it great for portraits and videos.
5. Affordable Pricing: The Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air is priced at $176 / €189 / £165, offering good value for both hobbyists and content creators.
Viltrox has introduced the AF 25mm F1.7 Air, a lightweight and compact prime lens made specifically for APS-C cameras. This lens comes in mounts for Sony E, Fujifilm X, and Nikon Z, offering a great mix of portability, performance, and cost, appealing to both hobbyist photographers and content creators alike.
Specifications of the Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air
Viltrox is really pushing the idea of “lightweight without sacrifice.” Weighing in at a mere 170g, the AF 25mm F1.7 Air is almost as light as a smartphone, making it perfect for photographers on the move. The design eliminates unnecessary weight while keeping a robust metal mount, giving it a solid but travel-friendly feel. By not including an aperture ring, the lens keeps things simple, with settings adjusted directly through the camera.
Focal Length and Performance
With an effective focal length of 38mm in full-frame terms, this lens finds a nice balance between standard and wide-angle perspectives. The generous F1.7 aperture excels in low-light situations and produces lovely bokeh, thanks to its nine-blade diaphragm. Internally, it boasts a 12-element, 10-group layout, which features extra-low dispersion and high-refractive index elements to minimize chromatic aberrations while ensuring crisp, high-contrast images.
Autofocus and Video Capabilities
Viltrox has included a stepping motor (STM) in the AF 25mm F1.7 Air that provides smooth, quiet, and precise autofocus. It supports both eye and face detection autofocus, which is particularly beneficial for street photography, portraits, and vlogs. The autofocus system is quick on compatible camera bodies, easily tracking subjects in both photo and video modes.
For videographers, the minimal focus breathing is a significant advantage, as it avoids distracting changes in framing during focus adjustments. When paired with in-body stabilization from compatible cameras, this lens delivers smooth, handheld shooting without too much shake. The nearly silent autofocus also helps in capturing clear audio while recording.
Pricing and Availability
The Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air is now on the market with a price tag of $176 / €189 / £165.
Tags: APS-C cameras, lightweight lens, Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air
March 4, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Launching This Spring with LiDAR Technology
Key Takeaways
1. The Mavic 4 series will include a Mavic 4 Pro and a Cine version, rather than a standard Mavic 4 model.
2. The Mavic 4 Pro is expected to feature a LiDAR sensor for the first time.
3. The Mavic 4 Pro may offer flight times of approximately 50 minutes with its new Intelligent Flight Battery.
4. Accessories such as Cellular and RC Pro options, along with a 240 W desktop charger, are anticipated for the Mavic 4 series.
5. The official launch of the Mavic 4 series could occur as early as April 20.
New info about the Mavic 4 series has come out online, marking over four years since DJI introduced the Mavic 3 and Mavic 3 Cine. Until not long ago, it looked like DJI was going to replace both models directly. However, recent months have suggested that the company is working on a successor for the Mavic 3 Pro, which is still less than two years old and is currently priced at $2,199 on Amazon.
Launch Speculations
According to fresh rumors, the Mavic 4 Pro will not debut with a less expensive Mavic 4. Instead, it seems that the standard Mavic 4 Pro will be accompanied by a Cine version. Furthermore, the Mavic 4 Pro Cine will likely come with the Mavic 4 Intelligent Flight Battery, which will probably support the Mavic 4 at some point as well. An image shared on X by @Quadro_News also points to the upcoming release of Cellular and RC Pro accessories, along with a 240 W desktop charger.
New Design Features
In the meantime, YueYue has posted what DroneXL calls a ‘final product image’ of DJI’s upcoming high-end consumer drone. Although the overall design of the Mavic 4 Pro was already familiar, this new image seems to indicate the inclusion of a LiDAR sensor for the first time. DroneXL reports that the Mavic 4 Pro is expected to offer around 50-minute flight times from its Intelligent Flight Battery and may officially launch as early as April 20.
Conclusion
With these exciting developments, the anticipation for the Mavic 4 series continues to grow among drone enthusiasts. As more details emerge, it will be interesting to see how DJI positions these new models in the market.
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Tags: DJI, LiDAR sensor, Mavic 4 Pro
March 4, 2025
Xiaomi Unveils 100 MP Camera Sensor with LaserLink at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi unveiled its Modular Optical System (MOS) during the launch of the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
2. The MOS is built around a Micro Four Thirds (M4/3) sensor, which is approximately double the size of the Sony LYT-900 sensor.
3. The MOS features a new Light Fusion X sensor with a native output of 100 MP, surpassing typical M4/3 sensors that usually max out at 25 MP.
4. The system attaches to the Xiaomi 15 via a magnetic ring and utilizes ‘LaserLink’ technology, allowing data transmission speeds of up to 10 Gbit/s.
5. The MOS can theoretically handle ‘Ultra RAW’ files in real-time, capturing images with 16 stops of dynamic range, but its mass production and availability as an accessory remain uncertain.
Xiaomi revealed its Modular Optical System (MOS) to the public yesterday during the launch of the Xiaomi 15, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and several other new devices. Today, the company has showcased the MOS prototype at MWC 2025 in Barcelona, while providing additional information about the system.
Key Features of the MOS
To summarize, Xiaomi confirmed on Sunday that the MOS is built around a Micro Four Thirds (M4/3) sensor. This sensor is about double the size of the Sony LYT-900, which is used in the main camera of both the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 Ultra (currently priced at $1,049 on Amazon).
Sensor Details
Xiaomi has also announced that the MOS incorporates a new Light Fusion X sensor, which has a native output of 100 MP. In comparison, most M4/3 sensors typically do not exceed 25 MP. Additionally, Xiaomi explained that this sensor operates alongside a 35 mm lens with an f/1.4 aperture, featuring a minimum focus distance of 30 cm.
Connection and Performance
The MOS attaches to a specially modified Xiaomi 15 using a magnetic ring and a technology called ‘LaserLink,’ which can transmit data at speeds of up to 10 Gbit/s. This setup theoretically enables the Xiaomi 15 to handle ‘Ultra RAW’ files in real-time, capturing images with a remarkable 16 stops of dynamic range. However, it is still uncertain if the Xiaomi MOS will be produced on a large scale and made available for consumers as an accessory.
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Tags: Light Fusion X, Modular Optical System, Xiaomi 15
March 3, 2025
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit Legend Edition: DSLR Controls & 2000mAh
Key Takeaways
1. New Xiaomi 15 Ultra Smartphone: Introduced at Mobile World Congress, it comes with a dedicated Photography Kit Legend Edition for enhanced photography.
2. Innovative Camera Grip: The kit features a USB-C connected camera grip with customizable controls for focus, exposure, and more, mimicking traditional camera functions.
3. Stylish Design Elements: Includes a vegan leather back cover inspired by Leica, with options for decorative rings and professional lens filters.
4. Enhanced Software Features: Fastshot mode allows quick adjustments for street photography, aiming to replicate DSLR handling on a smartphone.
5. Battery Power for Extended Use: The camera grip has a built-in 2,000mAh battery, ensuring it supports long photo sessions without needing a recharge.
Xiaomi has introduced the new Xiaomi 15 Ultra flagship smartphone at the Mobile World Congress, along with a unique Photography Kit Legend Edition aimed at enhancing the experience for smartphone photographers. Priced at €199, the kit is available separately from the phone and provides both hardware and software benefits.
Innovative Camera Grip
The centerpiece of the kit is a camera grip that connects through USB-C. It includes a removable shutter button, available in red or black, mimicking the functionality of a traditional camera: a half-press locks focus, a full press captures the image, and holding it down activates burst mode. The grip features handy dials for manual adjustments of exposure (EV), shutter speed, ISO, and white balance. There’s even a lever for quick zoom changes and focal length adjustments, along with a dedicated button for starting video recording. Powering this setup is a 2,000mAh battery, ensuring it can last through extended photo sessions.
Stylish Design Elements
Additionally, the kit includes a back cover made of vegan leather, taking inspiration from Leica’s iconic red-and-black aesthetic. This cover has a round cutout capable of accommodating either a decorative ring or a 67mm filter adapter ring for attaching professional-grade lens filters. To improve comfort during horizontal shooting, a detachable thumb support is part of the package.
Enhanced Software Features
On the software front, the Fastshot mode streamlines street photography by allowing users to preset exposure, focus, and shutter settings for quick adjustments. The overall design aims to replicate the feel of a DSLR directly on your smartphone, complete with tactile controls and a modular setup. Xiaomi has indicated that more information regarding regional availability will be provided in the future.
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Tags: Photography Kit Legend Edition, smartphone photography, Xiaomi 15 Ultra
March 3, 2025
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit: Precision & Performance for $199
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit enhances mobile photography with a camera grip, 67mm adapter ring, wireless camera handle, and more.
2. The camera grip doubles as a protective case, providing stability and easy accessory attachment.
3. The 67mm adapter ring allows for the use of external filters and lenses, expanding creative photography options.
4. The wireless camera handle features a two-stage shutter button and zoom control, improving usability and mimicking a DSLR experience.
5. The kit is available for $199 in black and grey at Giztop.
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit is perfect for anyone passionate about mobile photography and looking to elevate their skills. This accessory collection includes a camera grip, a 67mm adapter ring, a wireless camera handle, and additional items. Each part improves the overall experience, making smartphone photography more flexible and professional.
Pricing and Availability
You can find the Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit at Giztop for $199, and it comes in two colors: black and grey.
Dual-Function Camera Grip
This kit features a top-notch camera grip that also serves as a protective case. The grip has a nano skin texture, offering a comfy hold and ensuring full protection for the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. It provides improved stability when taking photos, which reduces hand shake and enhances the photography experience. Moreover, the protective case functions as a docking station, providing added convenience for users wanting to quickly attach or detach their accessories.
67mm Adapter Ring for More Creativity
Included in the kit is a 67mm adapter ring that lets users attach external filters and lenses onto the Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s camera module. This feature expands creative options, allowing photographers to play around with various effects and types of lenses. To keep the camera lenses safe from scratches, the package also comes with a lens cover that fits snugly over the adapter ring.
Wireless Camera Handle for Greater Control
For those who enjoy a more DSLR-like feel, the wireless camera handle in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit is revolutionary. It includes a two-stage shutter button, which permits users to half-press to focus and fully press to take the picture, resembling a professional camera. Furthermore, the handle has a zoom button, simplifying focal length adjustments without needing to touch the screen. This wireless functionality improves usability and makes shooting more instinctive.
Key Specs
– Camera Grip: Functions as a protective case with a nano-skin texture for a firm hold
– 67mm Adapter Ring: Lets you use external filters and lenses for enhanced creative options
– Wireless Camera Handle: Comes with a two-stage shutter button and a zoom control
– Lens Cover: Shields the camera lens from scratches
– Protective Case: Serves as a docking station for simple accessory attachment
With the Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit, mobile photography is taken to a more professional, versatile, and enjoyable level.
Tags: mobile photography, Photography Kit, Xiaomi 15 Ultra
March 3, 2025
Xiaomi’s Magnetic Clip-On Camera: Large Sensor & Fast Lens for MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi has launched the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra globally, along with a concept smartphone called the “Xiaomi 15 Custom.”
2. The Xiaomi 15 Custom features a magnetic ring on its back designed for attaching a clip-on camera, not for charging.
3. The clip-on camera includes a microFourThirds sensor and a lens with a 35 mm equivalent focal length and an f/1.4 aperture.
4. This clip-on camera is expected to perform better in low-light conditions and dynamic range compared to the main camera of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
5. The concept of a modular camera is not new, and it remains uncertain if Xiaomi’s “Modular Optical System” will be released to the market.
Xiaomi has recently revealed the global release of the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Alongside this announcement, the company took the chance to introduce an innovative concept smartphone inspired by the Xiaomi 15. This new model, dubbed the “Xiaomi 15 Custom,” features a magnetic ring located on its back. This ring isn’t designed for charging like Apple’s MagSafe; instead, it is intended for attaching a camera.
Camera Features
The camera appears to be a standard lens, but it contains a sensor within its housing. This innovative camera connects to the smartphone through a series of metal contacts on the specially modified Xiaomi 15. This setup means that it likely doesn’t require independent charging or a Bluetooth connection to function with the smartphone.
Specifications of the Clip-On Camera
Reportedly, this clip-on camera is equipped with a microFourThirds format sensor and a lens that offers a 35 mm equivalent focal length along with an aperture of f/1.4. A microFourThirds sensor has a size that is more than double the 1-inch sensor found in the main camera of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Consequently, the clip-on camera is expected to provide better performance regarding image noise in low-light conditions and dynamic range.
Modular Concept Challenges
While the idea of a modular camera is not entirely fresh—similar products like the Sony QX10 were introduced over a decade ago—the Xiaomi’s modular camera is still just a concept. Therefore, it remains uncertain if or when the “Xiaomi Modular Optical System” will become available in the market.
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Tags: Modular Camera, Xiaomi 15, Xiaomi 15 Ultra
March 2, 2025
4K GPS Camera Drone: Affordable DJI Mini Alternative Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. Camera Options and Pricing: The Hubsan Zino Mini Pro 2025 offers two camera choices: a 1/1.3-inch sensor for $525 and a 1/2.6-inch sensor for $435.
2. Lightweight Design: Weighing under 250 grams, the drone meets various legal requirements and captures high-resolution images (8000 x 6000 pixels) and 4K videos (3840 x 2160 pixels at 30 fps).
3. Advanced Stabilization: Features a 3-axis gimbal for steady shots, ensuring clear photos and videos even in windy conditions.
4. Impressive Flight Performance: Can reach speeds of up to 27 mph with a flight time of around 28 minutes under optimal conditions and a range of up to 7.4 miles.
5. User-Friendly Operation: Operable via an included remote control or a smartphone app, and equipped with GPS and follow-me mode for enhanced usability.
Hubsan has unveiled the Zino Mini Pro 2025, a new featherweight drone that comes with two camera options. You can choose between a 1/1.3-inch sensor for $525 or a 1/2.6-inch sensor priced at $435. Unfortunately, the DJI alternative isn’t available in the US right now, but it can be shipped to various countries in Europe.
Lightweight Design
Weighing in at just below 250 grams (8.8 ounces), this drone meets different legal requirements for operation in many nations. Despite its light weight, the camera can capture images at a stunning resolution of 8000 x 6000 pixels and record 4K videos at 3840 x 2160 pixels at 30 frames per second. If you want smoother footage, you can lower the resolution to 2720 x 1530 pixels, allowing you to record at 60 fps.
Advanced Stabilization
This drone also comes with a gimbal designed to keep the camera steady, ensuring clear photos and videos even in breezy conditions. The gimbal is capable of adjusting on all three axes: yaw, pitch, and roll. Additionally, the Hubsan Zino Mini Pro 2025 can be operated with the included remote control, and there’s an option to use a smartphone app as well.
Impressive Features
Equipped with GPS and a follow-me mode, this drone is packed with features. The manufacturer claims it can reach speeds of up to 27 miles per hour, with a full battery providing around 28 minutes of flight time at a steady 15 mph in no wind conditions. Finally, this DJI Mini rival boasts a range of up to 7.4 miles and stores its photos and 4K videos on a microSD card.
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Tags: 4K camera, Hubsan Zino Mini Pro 2025, Lightweight Drone
February 28, 2025
Canon PowerShot V3 Expected in 2025 with 1.4-Inch Sensor and Zoom Lens
Key Takeaways
1. Canon has launched the new PowerShot V1 and is developing the PowerShot V3, aimed at photography enthusiasts.
2. The PowerShot V3 is expected to have a longer zoom lens compared to the V1’s 16–50 mm lens and will maintain the same 1.4-inch sensor.
3. The V3 could compete with Micro Four Thirds systems and notable compact cameras like the Sony CyberShot RX100 VII, which is over five years old.
4. Canon will need to price the V3 competitively, likely close to the Sony ZV-E10 II, to effectively challenge other brands in the compact camera market.
5. While the PowerShot V series focuses on video for social media users, the versatility of a super-zoom camera like the V3 could appeal to travelers rather than just video creators.
Canon has just unveiled the new PowerShot V1, marking the return of its PowerShot series, and it appears they’re not taking a break. Early rumors suggest that a PowerShot V3 is in development, aimed at a more photography-focused audience compared to the V1.
Specifications Leak
According to alleged leaks from Canon Rumors, the PowerShot V3 will essentially be a revamped version of the V1, this time in a super-zoom format. Currently, the exact length of the zoom lens is not known, but it is expected to be much longer than the 16–50 mm equivalent lens found on the V1.
Competitive Edge
What we do know is that the PowerShot V3 will feature the same 1.4-inch sensor as its predecessor, which could put it in direct competition with the Micro Four Thirds systems favored by amateur bird and nature photographers. The last notable compact competitor was the highly regarded Sony CyberShot RX100 VII, which is priced at $1,299.99 at Best Buy. However, that model was released over five years ago. Even with the growing interest in compact cameras, Sony has seemingly shifted its focus to the $899.99 ZV-1 II and the $1,099.99 ZV-E10 II instead.
Pricing Strategy
For Canon to ensure that the PowerShot V3 stands out in the compact camera market, it will need to set its price close to that of the Sony ZV-E10 II, which has a significantly larger sensor than the 1.4-inch one expected in the V3. If we consider the price of the V1 (approximately $990 when converted from Japanese Yen), the V3 could be competitively priced enough to challenge brands like Sony and Nikon in the compact realm.
When Canon announced the transition from the PowerShot G series to the PowerShot V line, they suggested that these cameras would primarily serve as video-centric alternatives for social media users moving from smartphones. Nonetheless, a super-zoom compact camera is generally more versatile as a travel camera rather than a video camera, so it will be intriguing to see how Canon markets the V3 in relation to the V1.
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Tags: Canon Rumors, PowerShot V1, PowerShot V3