Category: Video / Photo

  • 11,787 Drones Break Guinness World Record in Chongqing Sky

    11,787 Drones Break Guinness World Record in Chongqing Sky

    Key Takeaways

    1. Chongqing is becoming known for its “endless last floors” and aims to be the ‘capital city of drone light shows.’
    2. The Glamorous Chongqing drone light show occurs every Saturday and on holidays, with a special show for the city’s 28th anniversary.
    3. The drone show features thematic performances that showcase Chongqing’s natural beauty, culture, and urban lifestyle.
    4. Organizers face technical challenges like managing varied terrain and ensuring signal synchronization for a smooth performance.
    5. The global trend of using drones for events is growing, with the drone show industry expected to reach a valuation of $2.63 billion by 2033.

    The city of Chongqing has recently become more well-known on platforms like YouTube and Facebook, especially for its “endless last floors.” Now, it is aiming to be recognized as the ‘capital city of drone light shows.’ On April 19, Chongqing kicked off the Glamorous Chongqing drone light show, which takes place every Saturday and on holidays. However, the Charming Chongqing drone light show, held to mark the 28th anniversary of Chongqing becoming a municipality, stands out the most.

    Thematic Performances

    The drone show was organized into themes that highlight Chongqing’s natural splendor, culture, urban lifestyle, and vitality. Some of the scenes showcased were City of Mountains and Rivers, Blooming Camellias, and Dynamic Metropolis. While certain scenes were fixed, others were dynamic; one particularly dynamic moment depicted a pod of dolphins jumping in and out of the water.

    Technical Challenges

    “We had to make adjustments for varied terrain, manage long-distance signal transmission, and synchronize multiple base stations for a seamless show,” said Qin Haiqun, the deputy general manager of Shenzhen Damoda Intelligent Control Technology.

    Growing Trend

    The use of drones for celebrations, including both government and private events, is becoming a popular trend globally. This practice has spread to every continent, and more companies are striving to take the lead in this market. The drone show industry is predicted to reach a valuation of $2.63 billion by 2033.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Affordable GPS Drone with Touchscreen Controller & Obstacle Avoidance

    Affordable GPS Drone with Touchscreen Controller & Obstacle Avoidance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The LYZRC L300 Ultra drone starts at $94, with an additional cost for obstacle avoidance and extra batteries.
    2. The drone features a 720p lower lens and a 1080p main camera that captures 4K photos, but compromises may exist in camera quality and flight performance.
    3. It has a built-in touchscreen on the controller, eliminating the need for a smartphone, but can connect to an app.
    4. The drone weighs 356.2 g, exceeding the under 250 g category, and offers a flight time of about 28 minutes with a maximum altitude of 120 m.
    5. Buyers should consider the limitations of the L300 Ultra due to its low price, especially compared to more expensive options like DJI drones.

    The LYZRC L300 Ultra is a new drone that can be directly imported from Banggood, with prices beginning at about $94, not including shipping and possible import fees. For this entry-level cost, customers get one battery and lack any obstacle avoidance, which can be added separately on top of the drone. If you want the version that includes obstacle avoidance and two batteries, it will cost you $124 – which is still a pretty good deal. However, it’s important to keep in mind that lower prices often mean significant compromises, especially in terms of camera performance and how well the drone flies. To give you an idea, even the simplest DJI drone, the Neo, starts at roughly $200.

    Camera Details

    On the gimbal, there are two camera sensors: The lower lens can capture at 720p, while the main camera records videos in 1080p and takes photos in 4K. The controller for the L300 Ultra includes a built-in touchscreen, so you don’t need to attach a smartphone. Still, the drone can connect to an app. Based on official specs, this quadcopter weighs 356.2 g (12.6 oz), which means it doesn’t fit into the under 250 g category. The remote control and video transmission can work up to 800 m (2625 ft), but the actual ranges can change a lot due to things like buildings and other barriers. The L300 Ultra claims to have a flight time of around 28 minutes and can reach a maximum height of 120 m (394 ft). With GPS support, it can automatically return to where it took off just by pressing a button.

    Final Thoughts

    Banggood’s offering of the LYZRC L300 Ultra certainly brings an affordable option to those looking to enter the drone flying world. However, potential buyers should weigh the benefits against the limitations that come with such a price point.

    Source:
    Link

    Affordable GPS Drone with Touchscreen Controller & Obstacle Avoidance

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Adobe Launches Project Indigo Camera App with AI Features

    Adobe Launches Project Indigo Camera App with AI Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Adobe’s Project Indigo is a new camera app for iPhones that uses advanced multi-frame imaging and AI to create RAW and JPG photos.
    2. The app merges up to 32 images into a single 16-bit digital negative, applying adaptive color profiles for SDR and HDR outputs.
    3. Project Indigo effectively reduces noise in images by combining pixel values from multiple frames, resulting in clearer photos.
    4. It utilizes sensor shift technology to achieve higher resolution images by mimicking natural hand movements during multi-frame capture.
    5. The app includes features like slow-shutter mode, AI reflection removal, and zero camera shutter lag, with plans for future updates based on user feedback.

    Adobe has launched a new camera app for iPhones called Project Indigo. This app uses advanced multi-frame imaging techniques and artificial intelligence to create both RAW and JPG photos. You can find this research project in the Apple App Store, and it works on iPhones running iOS 18.5 or later (like one available on Amazon).

    Multi-Frame Imaging Features

    The standout aspect of Project Indigo is its multi-frame imaging. This feature merges up to 32 images captured quickly from the same scene into a single 16-bit digital negative for processing and export. With its AI capabilities, the app applies adaptive color profiles to the digital negative, generating standard dynamic range (SDR) and high dynamic range (HDR) output files, either as DNGs or JPGs. While the photos from Project Indigo utilize AI-generated color profiles, they aren’t exactly raw sensor images that are completely untouched; however, users can adjust the DNG images and colors in editing software like Adobe Lightroom.

    Noise Reduction Capabilities

    The image stacking technique is effective for reducing noise, a feature that has been present in Sony Cybershot cameras since the 2010 DSC-TX7 model. Sensor noise tends to be sporadic, and each pixel doesn’t show the same noise level consistently. By combining the values of pixels from multiple frames, much of the sensor noise can be eliminated, leading to clearer images.

    Enhanced Resolution

    Sensor shift technology has allowed cameras to produce images with higher resolutions than their actual sensor limits by slightly shifting the pixels with each multi-frame capture, then merging them into one high-res image. This has been seen in some DSLRs since at least the 2015 Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Project Indigo takes advantage of natural hand and arm movements to mimic sensor shifting while capturing multi-frame super-resolution images.

    The app also includes additional functionalities like slow-shutter mode, AI reflection removal, and zero camera shutter lag. Adobe plans to incorporate features that researchers find beneficial in upcoming updates.

    Source:
    Link

    Adobe Launches Project Indigo Camera App with AI FeaturesAdobe Launches Project Indigo Camera App with AI FeaturesAdobe Launches Project Indigo Camera App with AI FeaturesAdobe Launches Project Indigo Camera App with AI Features
    Tags: , ,
  • Leica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in Germany

    Leica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in Germany

    Key Takeaways

    1. Leica has introduced Monopan 50 film to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Leica I camera.
    2. Monopan 50 is a monochrome film with low sensitivity (ISO 50), allowing for finer grain and better performance in bright daylight.
    3. The film can capture light wavelengths up to 780 nanometers, enhancing contrast in landscape photography.
    4. Ideal use cases for Monopan 50 include landscapes, architecture, and travel scenes, often recommended with color filters.
    5. The film will be available on August 21, 2025, priced at $10 per roll.

    To mark the 100th year of the Leica I, which helped make 35mm photography popular in 1925, the camera company from Wetzlar has introduced a new film named Monopan 50. As the title indicates, this film is monochrome and has a light sensitivity of ISO 50.

    Purpose of Low Sensitivity

    The very low sensitivity to light is designed to help create finer grain and also allows for taking pictures in bright daylight using a wider aperture. This helps achieve a shallower depth of field. The Leica Monopan 50 can pick up light wavelengths of up to 780 nanometers, which reaches into the infrared range. This property enhances contrast in landscape photographs, as demonstrated by the sample images shown below.

    Ideal Use Cases

    Produced in Germany, the Leica Monopan 50 is said to be especially good for capturing landscapes, architecture, and travel scenes. Leica also suggests using it alongside their color filters for best results. It’s not clear if Monopan 50 is a completely new product or simply a re-release of an existing one; DPReview has speculated that it might be similar to Adox HR-50, since the specifications are nearly the same and Adox is known to produce film in Berlin.

    Release Information

    Leica Monopan 50 is set to be available starting August 21, 2025. The price for the film is $10 per roll, which places it in the mid-range pricing category.

    Source:
    Link

    Leica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in GermanyLeica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in GermanyLeica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in GermanyLeica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in GermanyLeica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in GermanyLeica Monopan 50 Launch for M6 and Similar Cameras in Germany

     

    Tags: , ,
  • DJI Mini 5 Pro Leaks Reveal New Propeller Guards

    DJI Mini 5 Pro Leaks Reveal New Propeller Guards

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fresh images of the Mini 5 Pro have been released, showing its design and features.
    2. The drone’s propeller guards may or may not be optional accessories.
    3. The Mini 5 Pro’s battery capacity is significantly larger than that of the Mini 4 Pro.
    4. There is uncertainty about whether the Mini 5 Pro will remain under the 250 g weight category.
    5. The anticipated release of the Mini 5 Pro is set for September, generating excitement among drone enthusiasts.

    Now, Igor Bogdanov along with Xdrones Studio have released fresh pictures of what they both say is the Mini 5 Pro. Until now, only a blurred photo of the same drone had surfaced. It seems that this new image shows the same prototype as the one introduced earlier this year, based on the design of its obstacle avoidance sensors and its notably large propeller guards.

    Uncertainty About Accessories

    At this point, it is still not clear if the propeller guards are optional. If they are offered as extra accessories, it could help DJI promote the Mini 5 Pro as a sub-250 g drone like the previous Mini models. On the other hand, it’s hard to believe that the Mini 5 Pro will remain under this weight category, especially considering it sports a battery that is over 75% bigger than the Mini 4 Pro’s, with a capacity of up to 33.5 Wh (7.16V/4,680 mAh). As it stands, DJI is anticipated to launch the Mini 5 Pro in September.

    Conclusion and Expectations

    Igor Bogdanov and Xdrones Studio’s announcement has stirred excitement among drone enthusiasts. With the new image revealing more details, it seems like the Mini 5 Pro is shaping up to be a noteworthy addition to DJI’s lineup. The expected release next month could potentially bring new innovations and features that fans have been waiting for.

    Source:
    Link

    DJI Mini 5 Pro Leaks Reveal New Propeller Guards

     

    Tags: , ,
  • OM-5 Mark II: FourThirds Sensor, USB-C, New Menus & CP Button

    OM-5 Mark II: FourThirds Sensor, USB-C, New Menus & CP Button

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OM-System OM-5 features a 20-MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic IX processor, similar to the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III.
    2. Key upgrades include a USB-C port for battery charging, an enlarged handgrip for better ergonomics, and improved menus.
    3. A new “CP” button allows quick access to features like Live ND filter, Focus Stacking, and HDR, with customizable options.
    4. The camera offers effective sensor stabilization for extended exposure times and retains the same OLED viewfinder, touchscreen, and autofocus system as its predecessor.
    5. The OM-5 Mark II is priced at $1,199.99 and available for pre-order, with a kit option including a lens priced at $1,599.

    The OM-System OM-5 was first introduced in October 2022, featuring the same sensor as the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III that came out in 2019. This model includes a 20-MP Live MOS sensor in the FourThirds format, which is also found in the new OM-5 Mark II. The TruePic IX processor is the same as well.

    Upgrades and Changes

    Although there isn’t a substantial enhancement in image quality, the OM-5 has received a number of much-needed upgrades. For starters, the old micro USB port has been swapped for a USB-C port, which now allows for battery charging. The handgrip has been enlarged to provide better ergonomics, and the menus have been upgraded to match the OM-3’s standard, making it easier to operate.

    New Features

    A notable addition is the “CP” button located on the top panel. By pressing it while rotating the thumbwheel, users can efficiently access features like the Live ND filter, Focus Stacking, HDR, High-Res mode, and Multi-Exposure mode. Users who do not utilize these features can customize the function of the CP button. The sensor stabilization helps achieve sharp images with exposure times extended by up to 7.5 stops without needing a tripod. The 2.36-million-dot OLED viewfinder, the foldable 3-inch touchscreen, and the 121-point autofocus system remain unchanged from the previous version.

    Pricing and Availability

    The OM System OM-5 Mark II is currently available for pre-order through the manufacturer’s website starting at the price of $1,199.99, with shipping expected to commence on July 11. The camera comes in silver, beige, or black options. A kit that includes the 12 – 45 mm f/4.0 Pro lens is priced at $1,599. Alternatively, customers can find the older model on Amazon at a 25% discount.

    Source:
    Link

    OM-5 Mark II: FourThirds Sensor, USB-C, New Menus & CP ButtonOM-5 Mark II: FourThirds Sensor, USB-C, New Menus & CP ButtonOM-5 Mark II: FourThirds Sensor, USB-C, New Menus & CP Button
    Tags: , ,
  • Xgimi MoGo 4 Projectors Now Available in the US – Award-Winning

    Xgimi MoGo 4 Projectors Now Available in the US – Award-Winning

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xgimi has launched two new portable projectors, the MoGo 4 and MoGo 4 Laser, ideal for outdoor viewing.
    2. Pricing starts at $499 for the MoGo 4 and $799 for the MoGo 4 Laser, with a bundle option available for $899.
    3. Both models feature 1080p resolution, can project images up to 120 inches, and include automatic keystone adjustment for better image quality.
    4. They come with Google TV for streaming, support Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1, and include gesture controls and multiple connectivity options.
    5. The projectors are compact, portable with a battery life of up to 5 hours, and feature built-in Harman Kardon speakers for 360° sound.

    Xgimi has introduced two new portable projectors in the US market: the MoGo 4 and the MoGo 4 Laser. These models enhance the features of previous projectors such as the Xgimi MoGo 3 Pro. Recently launched in Europe as well, they’re perfect for projecting while camping or enjoying a rooftop movie night.

    Pricing Details

    You can purchase the Xgimi MoGo 4 projector now at Amazon for $499, while the Xgimi MoGo 4 Laser Projector is listed at $799. There is also a bundle option available that includes the Laser projector along with the PowerBase stand, a screen, light filters, and a carry case, all for a total of $899.

    Technical Specifications

    The projectors in the Xgimi MoGo 4 series have a native resolution of 1080p and can project images as large as 120 inches. The setup is user-friendly with an integrated stand, and the image quality can be swiftly improved with automatic keystone adjustment. The regular Xgimi MoGo 4 boasts a brightness of up to 450 ISO lumens, whereas the Laser version is capable of producing up to 550 ISO lumens. Additionally, the Laser model claims to cover 110% of the BT.2020 color gamut and offers a contrast ratio of 1,000:1.

    User Experience and Connectivity

    With the Google TV interface, users can easily stream content from various apps, and it includes licensed support for Netflix. Connectivity features include Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1, along with HDMI (ARC) and USB ports. The projectors support gesture controls and come equipped with a compact IR remote and a detachable buckle-style lanyard. They also include four magnetic filters to create ambient lighting effects: Sunset Ripple, Dreamscape, and Lunar.

    These projectors are highly portable, featuring an integrated battery that provides up to 2.5 hours of video playback in Eco Mode, or up to five hours when using the PowerBase Stand, which contains a 20,000mAh battery. Two built-in 6W speakers from Harman Kardon are included, promising a 360° sound experience. According to Xgimi, the MoGo 4 projectors are about the size of a coffee cup, measuring 207.6 x 96.5 x 96.5 mm (~8.2 x 3.8 x 3.8 inches) and weighing 1.32 kg (~2.9 lbs). The company also highlights that the MoGo 4 projectors have received the iF Design Award for 2025.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Panasonic Connect PT-RQ45K Projector: 40,000 Lumens Brightness

    Panasonic Connect PT-RQ45K Projector: 40,000 Lumens Brightness

    Key Takeaways

    1. Panasonic Connect has launched the PT-RQ45K, the world’s lightest and smallest 3-Chip DLP projector, with a brightness of up to 40,000 ANSI lumens.
    2. The projector features a resolution of 4K (3840 x 2400 px) and supports a maximum of 1080p at 240Hz, with various lens options affecting the throw ratio.
    3. Key features include a 5-inch color LCD monitor, Real-Time Tracking Projection Mapping, Gradation Smoother, and Black Level Correction.
    4. Connectivity options consist of an Intel SDM standard-compatible expansion slot and 12G-SDI input.
    5. The PT-RQ45K is expected to launch in Europe between July and September 2026, with availability in North America marked as “Coming Soon.”

    Panasonic Connect has introduced the PT-RQ45K 3-Chip DLP Projector. This division is part of the larger Panasonic family, concentrating on solutions for public services, entertainment, and infrastructure.

    Compact and Powerful

    As stated on the product page for the PT-RQ45K, it’s the world’s lightest and smallest projector that can produce an impressive brightness of up to 40,000 ANSI lumens. This is made possible through a multi-laser light source featuring two blue lasers and one red laser. The company mentions that this brightness level is reached when the Picture Mode is set to Dynamic, Light Power is adjusted to Normal, and the ET-D3LES250 lens is used.

    High-Definition Capabilities

    The PT-RQ45K boasts a resolution of 4K (3840 x 2400 px) and can support a maximum of 1080p at 240Hz. The throw ratio varies based on the lens employed, ranging from 0.364:1 for the ET-D75LE95 to 13.8:1 for the ET-D3LET80. It includes a 5-inch color LCD monitor designed to simplify tasks like pre-show checks. Additional features consist of the Real-Time Tracking Projection Mapping system, Gradation Smoother, and Black Level Correction. Connectivity options include an Intel SDM standard-compatible expansion slot and 12G-SDI input. The dimensions are 598 x 353 x 780 mm (approximately 23.5 x 13.9 x 30.7 inches), and the weight is around 70 kg (about 155 lbs) or less.

    Release Timeline

    The Panasonic PT-RQ45K 3-Chip DLP Projector is set to launch in Europe during the third quarter of the calendar year 2026, specifically between July and September. It’s also anticipated to be available in North America, where it is currently being promoted as “Coming Soon.”

    Source:
    Link

    Panasonic Connect PT-RQ45K Projector: 40,000 Lumens Brightness
    Tags: , ,
  • Insta360 Go 3S Action Camera Images Leak Online

    Insta360 Go 3S Action Camera Images Leak Online

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI is set to launch new action cameras, the Osmo 360 and Osmo Nano, on July 15 and July 23, respectively.
    2. Insta360 is also preparing to introduce a new model, likely the Go 4, followed by the Go 4S.
    3. The Insta360 Go 4 model is expected to feature a front shutter button and a compact design.
    4. The new Insta360 Go 4 appears to be larger than the previous Go 3S model.
    5. More images and details about the upcoming Insta360 action camera are anticipated to be released soon.

    Recent rumors indicate that DJI is set to launch a few new action cameras very soon. The Osmo 360 and Osmo Nano are expected to be unveiled a week apart, with the release dates scheduled for July 15 and July 23, respectively. Meanwhile, Insta360 seems to be preparing to introduce a new model as well.

    Insta360’s Next Move

    Earlier this year, the Insta360 X5 was released (curr. $549 on Amazon). However, new images of a different model have emerged on social media. Shared by Igor Bogdanov on X, one of these images features not only an unannounced camera but also what appears to be a charging accessory, inscribed with the name Insta360 Go 4S. Thus, it is likely that Insta360 will present the Go 4 model before the Go 4S.

    Camera Features and Expectations

    From what we can see, the camera seems to have a front shutter button. Unfortunately, there haven’t been any more details shared by Bogdanov or others. The camera appears quite compact, but it is noticeably larger than last year’s Insta360 Go 3S. This launch aligns with recent updates to the Insta360 Go series. We can expect more images and information regarding this upcoming action camera to surface online pretty soon.

    Source:
    Link

    Insta360 Go 3S Action Camera Images Leak Online
    Tags: , ,
  • New CarPlay Feature in iOS 26 Brings Video Playback Support

    New CarPlay Feature in iOS 26 Brings Video Playback Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Video playback on CarPlay screens will be allowed in iOS 26, but only when vehicles are parked.
    2. This is the first official allowance for video playback on CarPlay since its launch in 2014.
    3. Car manufacturers can choose whether to enable the new AirPlay video feature for specific models.
    4. iOS 26 will also include updates like new icon designs, appearance options, widget support, and improvements to Music and Messages.
    5. The availability of the AirPlay video option may vary by location, and car manufacturers need to integrate support before it becomes accessible.

    Apple is preparing to let apps show videos on connected CarPlay screens in iOS 26, but only when the vehicle is parked. This significant update to CarPlay comes after a prolonged period where Apple limited video playback. The new feature will be accessible through the “video in the car” menu, as mentioned on Apple’s developer site for CarPlay.

    First Time for Video Playback

    For the first time since CarPlay was introduced in 2014, video playback will be officially permitted. Each car manufacturer will have the choice to enable the AirPlay video feature on specific car models or not. Alongside this, Apple is making substantial changes to CarPlay in iOS 26, including new icon designs, appearance options, widget support, and enhancements to Music and Messages.

    Enhanced Entertainment Experience

    Cars with CarPlay provide drivers and passengers with entertainment options that can be better than what standard infotainment systems offer. However, some electric vehicle manufacturers have competing features; for instance, Tesla has a Theater app that allows users to watch videos from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and Twitch on the dashboard display when parked.

    Apple hasn’t released more specifics or images regarding the new AirPlay video option, and it won’t be available right away since car manufacturers need to integrate support for it first, according to Apple. Users of both regular CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra should eventually get access to it. It’s important to keep in mind that the availability of this feature may vary based on your location.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,