Category: Video / Photo

May 22, 2025
Fujifilm Unveils X Half Digital Camera with 1-Inch Sensor
Key Takeaways
1. The Fujifilm X-HF1 is a compact digital camera designed primarily for social media, featuring a 3:4 vertical picture format.
2. It includes a 32 mm f/2.8 lens with advanced autofocus, face and eye detection, and a manual focus ring for precise control.
3. The camera has a 17.74 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor, an ISO range of 200 to 12,800, and supports video recording at up to 1,080 x 1,440 resolution.
4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and USB-C, along with an app for smartphone editing and printing.
5. The X-HF1 is compact in size (105.8 x 64.3 x 45.8 mm) and lightweight (240 g), with a retail price of $849.99 expected in June 2025.
Fujifilm has introduced its new compact digital camera, the X half (X-HF1), which is the newest addition to the X-series lineup. This camera employs a 3:4 vertical picture format as its primary setting, making it ideal for sharing on social media. With a variety of filters available, it aims to replicate the appearance of different films, providing a user-friendly experience that allows photographers to concentrate on their subjects.
Lens Features
The camera comes equipped with a 32 mm f/2.8 lens featuring a 3-blade aperture, which contributes to its distinct image quality. It utilizes contrast autofocus and incorporates face and eye detection to optimize the six lens elements, including three aspheric lenses. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, the focus ring allows for manual adjustments to highlight specific areas in a shot, all while looking through the reverse Galilean optical viewfinder. An interesting feature is the physical film advance lever, which simulates the feel of using a traditional film camera when in Film Camera mode.
Sensor and Storage
Inside, the camera boasts a 17.74 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor with an ISO range extending from 200 to 12,800. Shutter speeds can vary from 1/2000 of a second to an impressive 15 minutes. There’s no built-in image stabilizer available, but it does include a compact flash.
The X half saves images as standard JPEG files and can capture two vertical format images side-by-side as one file. It’s also capable of recording videos at 1,080 x 1,440 resolution at frame rates from 24 to 48 fps in H.264 MP4 format. Users can combine two videos or a video with a photo into a single 2,160 x 1,440 video file. Storage options include SDXC cards, accommodating sizes up to 2 TB. A 2.4-inch 4:3 TFT LCD with 0.92 million dots allows for easy viewing of live compositions and saved files.
Connectivity and Dimensions
Files can be transferred via 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, or USB-C connections. The X Half app is available for smartphones, enabling users to digitally edit images, create 2-in-1 images and albums, and print directly to Instax instant photo printers.
This camera measures 105.8 × 64.3 × 45.8 mm (4.2 x 2.5 x 1.8 in.) and weighs 240 g (8.5 oz.) including the battery and card. The X half has a suggested retail price of $849.99 and is expected to hit the market in June 2025.
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Tags: compact digital camera
May 22, 2025
Google Launches Beam: 3D Video Calling with Real-Time Translation
Key Takeaways
1. Google introduced Beam, a 3D video calling system that simulates in-person conversations without the need for headsets or glasses, building on Project Starline.
2. Beam uses advanced technology, including six high-definition cameras, light-field rendering, and head tracking at 60 frames per second, to create lifelike video calls.
3. The system maintains eye contact, recognizes gestures, and captures facial expressions, enhancing the sense of presence during calls.
4. Beam features real-time AI translation, supporting multiple languages while preserving the speaker’s tone and voice, initially available for English and Spanish.
5. Google plans to collaborate with HP to launch Beam by late 2025, targeting both business and broader communication uses, with integration into Google Meet and other services.
At the I/O 2025 event, Google introduced Beam, a cutting-edge 3D video calling system made to mimic in-person conversations without needing any headsets or glasses. This platform is the result of the earlier Project Starline.
Origins of Beam
Project Starline was a trial telepresence initiative that Google launched in 2021, aimed at creating realistic, 3D video calls that would give the impression that the person on the other end was actually in the same room with you.
Building on the ideas of Project Starline, Beam merges AI-powered depth sensing technology with a compact light field display to produce lifelike, volumetric images of participants during calls in real time.
Advanced Technology
Beam is equipped with six high-definition cameras, light-field rendering, and precise head tracking that operates at an impressive 60 frames per second, all to create a genuine sense of presence. This technology enables users to maintain eye contact, recognize gestures, and understand facial expressions, all while avoiding the discomfort of headsets.
The initial model was quite large and cumbersome, but Beam has now been streamlined into a sleeker, market-ready product. Google is collaborating with HP to launch it by late 2025, with early adopters including Salesforce, Deloitte, and Duolingo.
Exciting Features
A notable new feature of Beam is its real-time AI translation. This is powered by Google’s Gemini models, allowing individuals to converse in various languages while keeping the unique tone and voice of the speaker. Currently, it supports English and Spanish, with plans to add Italian, German, and Portuguese soon. Google has also mentioned that this technology will be integrated into Google Meet to enhance collaboration across language differences.
Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, stated that Beam is part of the company’s larger effort to make remote communication feel more intuitive and natural. Google aims to connect it with services like Zoom and eventually expand its use beyond just business settings.
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Tags: Google I/O 2025
May 21, 2025
Epson Projectors Now Support Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit
Key Takeaways
1. Epson has integrated Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit into select projectors for 2025.
2. Compatible projector models include the PowerLite EB-L6, EB-L7, EB-L8, EB-994F, EB-FH54, and EB-L690SU.
3. These projectors feature WUXGA resolution and brightness levels up to 8,000 lumens.
4. Apple AirPlay 2 allows wireless streaming from iPhones, iPads, or Macs to the projectors.
5. Apple HomeKit enables users to manage projectors through the Apple Home app and Siri voice commands.
Epson has revealed that it has integrated Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit into a number of its projectors for 2025. The company stated that this change “meets the increasing need for seamless streaming,” whether in offices, educational institutions, or personal spaces.
Projector Models with New Features
Epson claims that Apple AirPlay 2 and Apple HomeKit come pre-installed on certain models. These include the PowerLite EB-L6, EB-L7, and EB-L8 series projectors, which were introduced at ISE 2025. These projectors are fixed-lens laser types, offering a WUXGA resolution and brightness levels of up to 8,000 lumens. Additionally, the EB-994F, EB-FH54, and EB-L690SU models provide more budget-friendly choices for business or educational purposes. You can find a complete list of compatible models below.
Enhancing Connectivity
Apple AirPlay 2 debuted in 2018, providing users with iPhones, iPads, or Macs the ability to wirelessly stream content to connected devices. This includes sharing video, audio, and photos from various applications or Safari. Apple HomeKit serves as the brand’s smart home platform, enabling the connection of different smart devices. Users will have the capability to manage these Epson projectors via the Apple Home app or by using Siri voice commands.
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Tags: Epson
May 20, 2025
Xiaomi Smart Camera C100: Lightweight 170g Security Camera with Storage
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi is launching the Smart Camera C100, aimed at indoor use, with a design suitable for various mounting options.
2. The camera records at a resolution of 2,304 x 1,296 and supports three storage methods: microSD card, NAS, or cloud storage.
3. It features two-way communication with an integrated microphone and speaker, along with echo reduction capabilities.
4. The camera includes advanced smart home compatibility, such as person detection and area exit alerts.
5. Infrared LEDs enable color imaging in low light, while the camera requires a wired power connection and supports Wi-Fi 6.
Xiaomi offers a variety of surveillance cameras suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, available for purchase directly or through Amazon. Their lineup is about to grow with the introduction of the Smart Camera C100. While details on pricing or availability remain unknown, the camera’s appearance on Xiaomi’s global website suggests an upcoming worldwide release.
Design and Specifications
The Smart Camera C100 from Xiaomi features a slim design, indicating its suitability for indoor settings; however, the company has not mentioned any IP ratings for weather resistance. The camera is affixed to a stand, allowing users to adjust its angle manually but lacking the ability for remote adjustments. It can be positioned on surfaces like tables or cabinets, and can also be wall or ceiling mounted. With dimensions of 69 x 69 x 115 millimeters and a weight of approximately 170 grams, this camera is capable of recording at a resolution of 2,304 x 1,296 using the H.265 codec. Users can choose from three storage methods: a microSD card, a network-attached storage (NAS) device, or cloud storage. It supports Wi-Fi 6, but requires a wired connection for power.
Features and Functionality
Equipped with both a microphone and speaker, the camera allows for two-way communication with individuals in its vicinity, and it claims to have echo reduction features. The device is compatible with smart home systems, boasting advanced options such as person detection and alerts when someone exits a predefined area. The infrared LEDs, which operate at a wavelength of 940 nm, are said to be invisible to the human eye, and Xiaomi asserts they can deliver color images even in dim lighting conditions.
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Tags: Smart Camera C100, surveillance camera, Xiaomi
May 20, 2025
New U.S. Law Targets AI Deepfakes with Take It Down Act
Key Takeaways
1. The Take It Down Act makes it illegal to share sexually explicit images without consent, including real photos and AI-generated deepfakes.
2. Social media companies must remove such content within 48 hours after being notified by the victim.
3. Deepfake incidents have increased significantly, with 180 cases reported in early 2025, a 19% rise from all of 2024.
4. The Electronic Frontier Foundation criticizes the law for lacking protections against misuse and relying on automated filters that may mistakenly flag legal content.
5. Smaller online platforms face challenges in complying with the law’s 48-hour removal requirement, complicating the verification of illegal content.
U.S. President Donald Trump has recently enacted a new law that prohibits the sharing of sexually explicit images without consent online. This legislation applies to both real photographs and AI-generated deepfakes.
New Regulations on Explicit Content
The Take It Down Act (as reported by Engadget) makes it a crime to “knowingly publish” or threaten to release fake images of individuals in explicit scenarios online. The law requires social media companies to take down such content within 48 hours upon receiving a notice from the victim.
Rise in Deepfake Incidents
According to Surfshark, the occurrence of deepfake incidents has surged in 2025. The report indicates that nearly 180 deepfake cases were reported in the first quarter of 2025, which is 19% higher than the total for all of 2024.
From the 179 incidents reported in the initial three months, 53 were explicit in nature, while online fraud made up 48. Political-related incidents reached 40, and 38 other miscellaneous reports completed the total.
Obligations for Online Platforms
The new law mandates that online platforms establish a process for removing images upon request. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a non-profit that advocates for individual rights on the internet, highlighted that the law has “Major Flaws.”
The EFF argues that the legislation “lacks important protections against frivolous or bad-faith takedown requests.” They pointed out that many services will depend on “automated filters,” which might result in the wrongful flagging of legal content, including fair-use commentary and news articles.
The brief 48-hour time frame also poses challenges for smaller platforms, making it difficult “to verify if the content is actually illegal.” The EFF contends that in its current form, the act compels platforms “to actively monitor speech, including that which is currently encrypted.”
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Tags: deepfakes
May 20, 2025
VIOFO A329S 3CH 4K Dash Cam with Sony Starvis 2 Night Vision
Key Takeaways
1. Three-Camera Setup: The A329S 3CH dash cam features a 4K front camera, a 2K infrared cabin camera, and a 2K rear camera, all equipped with Sony’s Starvis 2 technology for improved low-light performance.
2. High-Quality Video Recording: The front camera records in 4K at 60 fps, while the rear and cabin cameras record in 2K at 30 fps, ensuring clear footage even during high-speed driving.
3. Advanced Features: Key features include triple-channel recording, HDR support, parking mode, hybrid recording options, and super night vision capabilities.
4. Connectivity and Control: The dash cam supports the VIOFO app for customization, live location sharing, and voice command control, along with Wi-Fi 6 for fast data transfers.
5. Pre-Order Promotion: The dash cam is available for pre-order at $359.99, with a complimentary 256 GB memory card and a $30 discount for pre-orders.
VIOFO has introduced its latest A329S 3CH dash cam to the global market. This new dash cam features a three-camera setup, comprising of a 4K front camera, a 2K infrared fisheye cabin camera, and a 2K rear camera. The front camera utilizes an 8 MP Sony IMX675 sensor, while both the rear and interior cameras are equipped with a 5 MP Sony IMX675 sensor. Notably, all three cameras come with Sony’s latest Starvis 2 technology, which improves performance in low-light conditions, minimizes noise, and enhances dynamic range.
Video Quality and Features
In terms of video quality, the front camera can record at a resolution of up to 4K at 60 frames per second, whereas the rear and cabin cameras provide resolutions of up to 2K at 30 frames per second. Each camera is designed to deliver clear and dependable footage even during high-speed driving. The A329S 3CH dash cam is loaded with various features, including triple-channel recording, 3-channel HDR to ensure clarity in both bright and dark settings, parking mode, hybrid recording options, vehicle battery protection, low power impact detection, and super night vision capabilities.
Additional Capabilities
Additionally, the dash cam includes a GPS logger that supports features like live route tracking and a Find My Car function. It also has a 2.4-inch LCD screen that allows users to toggle between views from the front, cabin, and rear cameras. Moreover, it offers a multi-video layout that enables the simultaneous viewing of all three camera feeds.
App Support and Connectivity
The device is compatible with the VIOFO companion app, which lets users customize settings, share their live location, and download recorded footage. Users can even control the dash cam using voice commands. Other notable features include loop recording, an emergency lock function, Wi-Fi 6 for speedy data transfers, and a circular polarizing lens that reduces glare from the windshield while enhancing clarity and contrast.
Currently, the VIOFO A329S 3CH dash cam standard edition is available for pre-order on VIOFO’s official website for $359.99, with shipping set to start on May 26th. Additionally, customers who pre-order the dash cam will receive a complimentary 256 GB memory card and a discount of $30.
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Tags: dash cam
May 18, 2025
Epson EF-51: Smart 3LCD Projector with Stunning 4K Resolution
Key Takeaways
1. The Epson EF-51 is a versatile projector that can also function as a lamp, with customizable lighting options.
2. It features a compact design with adjustable rotation and tilt for easy setup, along with automatic keystone correction.
3. The projector uses 3LCD technology for vibrant image quality and has a resolution of 3,840 x 2,160, though not its native resolution.
4. The maximum brightness is rated at 700 lumens, suitable for projecting images between 30 and 150 inches in size.
5. Priced at approximately $734 in China, details about a global release are still pending.
Epson is broadening its lineup with the introduction of the Epson EF-51, a new projector. This device isn’t just for projecting images; it can also serve as a lamp on a nightstand, for instance. It supports multiple colors, and the lighting can be synced with the projection or activated even when the Epson EF-51 is in standby mode. An app simplifies the process of configuring the lighting, making it both comprehensive and user-friendly.
Design and Functionality
The projector measures 190 x 190 mm and stands at 249 mm, featuring a relatively long stand that gives it a very practical look. Users can rotate the system 180° on its stand and tilt it 105° both up and down, thus making the setup quite easy. Keystone correction is available, and the manufacturer claims that the projection position can be automatically adjusted. The Epson EF-51 utilizes 3LCD technology, which employs three separate LCD screens to create images, ensuring vibrant color representation.
Specifications and Performance
The resolution is said to be 3,840 x 2,160, though it’s probably not the native resolution without pixel shifting. The maximum brightness is rated at 700 lumens, and the throw ratio is 1.2:1. It is recommended to project images between 30 and 150 inches in size. Additionally, this 3.9-kilogram projector is compatible with ALLM and supports wireless screen projection.
In China, the price for this model is approximately $734. Details regarding a worldwide release are still awaited.
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Tags: Epson EF-51, Projector
May 18, 2025
Epson EF-51 Projector: Native 4K, 700 Lumens, Dolby Audio
Key Takeaways
1. The Epson EF-51 4K smart projector is priced at 4099 yuan ($568) and features true 4K resolution with HDR support.
2. It utilizes Epson’s Triple Core Engine and three-chip, three-color 3LCD technology, achieving a brightness of up to 700 lumens and a dynamic contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1.
3. The projector includes an innovative ambient lighting system that can be customized through touch controls or a smart companion app, allowing for personalized lighting modes and effects.
4. User-friendly features include automatic keystone correction, wall detection, a motorized stand for versatile placement, and support for seamless 4K gaming with ALLM.
5. The EF-51 operates quietly at 23dB, meets China’s Level 2 energy efficiency standards, and comes with a 2+1 year warranty, including door-to-door service.
Epson has made waves by launching its EF-51 4K smart projector in China. This fresh model is accessible for purchase on JD.com with a retail price set at 4099 yuan ($568). The EF-51 is marketed as a versatile gadget, merging a true 4K projector with integrated ambient lighting capabilities.
Specifications of the Epson EF-51
This projector employs Epson’s Triple Core Engine, combined with a three-chip, three-color 3LCD setup to provide full 4K resolution. It can handle HDR content and boasts a brightness of up to 700 lumens. Epson asserts a dynamic contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1, utilizing frame-by-frame processing across 512 contrast zones. Furthermore, the device supports a 10-bit color depth and can display more than 1.07 billion colors.
Innovative Features
Epson has added a new light energy recycling mechanism in this unit, aimed at enhancing brightness consistency and minimizing visual noise. The company states that this system achieves a brightness uniformity of 97.3%, ensuring that image quality remains steady from the center to the edges.
The EF-51 is equipped with an ambient lighting system that works on its own when the projector is not in operation. Users have the ability to modify lighting colors, adjust brightness settings, and apply effects through touch-sensitive controls or via Epson’s smart companion app. This app also enables users to personalize lighting modes, wallpapers, and even construct interactive photo walls.
User-Friendly Design
The projector features automatic keystone correction, wall detection, and frame alignment. It can project images as large as 100 inches and comes with a motorized stand that allows for 180-degree horizontal rotation and 105-degree vertical tilt, providing versatile placement options. For gamers, the EF-51 includes ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) and motion interpolation for a seamless 4K gaming experience.
Epson has outfitted the EF-51 with dual 6W stereo speakers, fine-tuned by professional audio experts. It supports Dolby Audio and operates on an MT9 chipset with 2GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. It features HDMI, USB, and audio ports, along with voice control capability via an AI assistant.
Energy Efficiency and Warranty
The projector maintains a low operational noise level of 23dB and adheres to China’s Level 2 energy efficiency standards. Epson offers a 2+1 year official warranty, which includes door-to-door service, complimentary repairs, and replacements for shipping damages.
Tags: 4K Projector, Epson EF-51, Smart Home Technology
May 16, 2025
Acer PD1810: Versatile 4K Projector for Home and Office Use
Key Takeaways
1. The Acer PD1810 projector is the only model in Acer’s new lineup that supports 4K/UHD resolution.
2. It features a refresh rate of 240Hz and a standard brightness of 1,000 ANSI lumens, though brightness drops to 80% in Eco Mode.
3. The projector includes multiple HDMI 2.0 ports, a fixed zoom of 1.45, corner correction, and automatic keystone adjustment.
4. Additional functionalities include smartphone charging via a 5V USB type-A port and built-in dual 5W speakers, along with a remote control.
5. The Acer PD1810 is expected to launch in Q3 2025 at a starting price of €829.
The PD1810 projector stands out as the taller and somewhat bulkier option among Acer’s latest offerings showcased at Computex 2025. Notably, it is distinguished as the sole model that supports 4K/UHD resolution.
Refresh Rate and Brightness
With a refresh rate of 240Hz, this projector seems to be more suited for Acer’s sports mode compared to its counterpart, the PD1520s. While it comes with a standard brightness of 1,000 ANSI lumens, it can only hit 80% of this brightness in Eco Mode.
Connectivity Features
The PD1810 has more than one HDMI port; however, these ports are rated at the 2.0 standard instead of the newer 2.1. They can be found positioned between the USB-C 3.1 port and the audio jack on the projector. This model is also the only new projector from Acer that features a fixed zoom of 1.45, along with corner correction and automatic keystone adjustment.
Additional Functionalities
Moreover, this projector supports smartphone charging through a 5V USB type-A port. It also includes built-in audio through dual 5W speakers and comes with a remote control for convenience.
The Acer PD1810 is expected to hit the market in the third quarter of 2025, with a starting price of €829.
Acer’s News Release
Taipei/Ahrensburg – 16. May 2025 – Acer has unveiled a range of new monitors and projectors designed to enhance creative processes, mobile work, and flexible entertainment. Whether you’re on the go, in a home office, or staying at a hotel, Acer provides the right technology for various scenarios.
ProCreator Series: Tailored for Creative Professionals
The new Acer ProCreator monitors deliver professional-grade color accuracy (Delta E<1), Calman verification, and customizable color spaces – perfect for photo, film, and graphic editing tasks. The Acer PE320QXT features a stunning 6K resolution (6,016 x 3,384), while its smaller counterpart, the Acer PE270XT, boasts a 5K resolution (5,120 x 2,880). Both monitors support 99% of AdobeRGB and DCI-P3 color spaces, ensuring high color accuracy with Delta E<1. OLED and touchscreen options provide a superior working experience at the highest level.
Tags: 4K Projector, Computex 2025
May 16, 2025
Hisense Launches Vidda C3 Pro 4K Laser Projector for Home Cinema
Key Takeaways
1. The Hisense Vidda C3 Pro 4K projector features Trichroma laser light technology with a brightness of up to 2,800 CVIA lumens and a high dynamic contrast ratio of 14,000:1.
2. It supports a wide color range of 110% BT.2020, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, IMAX Enhanced, and Filmmaker Mode.
3. The projector has a throw ratio of 0.9-1.5:1, allowing for a 100-inch image from 2 meters, along with features like 1.67x lossless zoom and automatic obstacle avoidance.
4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and multiple HDMI 2.1 eARC ports, complemented by two built-in JBL speakers (10W each).
5. Priced at CNY 9,499 (~$1,318) in China, it is uncertain whether the Vidda C3 Pro will be available in North America and Europe.
Hisense has introduced the Vidda C3 Pro 4K projector in China. This new model comes alongside the more robust Vidda C3 Ultra and serves as the successor to the Vidda C2 Pro, which is also known as the Hisense C2 Pro.
Brightness and Features
The Vidda C3 Pro is equipped with the company’s Trichroma laser light technology, promising brightness levels of up to 2,800 CVIA lumens. For comparison, the C3 Ultra boasts a brighter output of 3,200 CVIA lumens. However, Hisense has not yet provided brightness data for these models that corresponds to a globally accepted standard like ANSI lumens. The C3 Pro also claims to have a high dynamic contrast ratio of 14,000:1, 110% coverage of the BT.2020 color range, and supports HDR10+, Dolby Vision, IMAX Enhanced, along with Filmmaker Mode.
Projection Capabilities
This projector from Hisense features a 0.9-1.5:1 throw ratio, enabling the projection of a 100-inch (~254 cm) image from a distance of 2 meters (~6.6 ft). It includes 1.67x lossless zoom, keystone correction, automatic obstacle avoidance, and a variety of AI image-improving features. In terms of connectivity, it offers Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and multiple ports such as HDMI 2.1 eARC. Additionally, it comes with two built-in JBL speakers, each with a power of 10W.
Pricing and Availability
The Hisense Vidda C3 Pro projector is priced at CNY 9,499 (~$1,318) in China. It remains unclear if this projector will be available in markets like North America and Europe. Meanwhile, you might want to look at the Hisense C2 Pro, which is currently listed at $1,997.97 on Amazon.
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Tags: 4K Projector, Hisense, Vidda C3 Pro