Category: Video / Photo

March 28, 2025
V-Copter Falcon Mini: New Bi-Copter Drone Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. The V-Copter Falcon Mini is a bi-copter with two rotors, offering advanced flight control for better maneuverability.
2. Weighing only 249 grams, it is lighter than many drones, potentially allowing for faster acceleration.
3. The drone may feature the ability to fly in reverse, although this requires a separate kit.
4. It includes a 4K camera with a 3-axis gimbal for improved stabilization.
5. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 34 minutes on a single charge.
Most drones that are meant for regular users and even some hobbyists, like the DJI Mini 4K priced at $299 on Amazon, usually have four rotors arranged in a square shape.
A Different Design
In contrast, the V-Copter Falcon Mini is set to be released as a bi-copter. This means it will have two rotors that are precisely angled and use advanced flight control algorithms, which may allow for quicker and more precise control while flying.
Lightweight and Fast
Weighing in at just 249 grams (g), the Falcon Mini is said to be lighter than many other drones, which could help it accelerate more quickly due to its dual-rotor design. There’s even talk that it might be able to fly in reverse spinning modes, although this feature seems to need a special kit sold separately.
Impressive Features
Created by Zero Zero Robotics, the same team behind the compact HoverAir camera drones, the Falcon Mini will come with a 4K camera that has a 3-axis gimbal for better stabilization. Its battery is designed to last up to 34 minutes on a single charge, which is quite impressive for this type of drone.
The V-Copter Falcon Mini is expected to launch soon on a new Indiegogo crowd-funding page.
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Tags: 4K camera, V-Copter Falcon Mini, Zero Zero Robotics
March 27, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Pricing Revealed: Successor to Mavic 3 Pro
Key Takeaways
1. The DJI Mavic 4 Pro will launch at €2,099 in the Eurozone and £1,879 in the UK with the new RC 2 controller.
2. The Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo will be priced at €2,699 and £2,549, lower than the Mavic 3 Pro model.
3. The Creator Combo, featuring the RC Pro 2 controller and 512 GB of storage, will cost €3,539 and £3,209.
4. Specific accessories included in the Fly More or Creator Combo packages have not been disclosed.
5. DJI plans to tease the Mavic 4 Pro on April 14, with an official launch set for April 24, 2025.
We have previously shared information about the launch pricing for the DJI Mavic 4 Pro in North America. Now, the leaker billbil-kun has uncovered the prices for the Eurozone and UK, where this drone will also be available with the new RC 2 Pro controller.
Pricing Details
According to the French source, the Mavic 4 Pro will have a starting price of €2,099 in the Eurozone and £1,879 in the UK when bundled with an RC 2 controller (currently priced at $354 on Amazon). This means that the Mavic 4 Pro will be introduced in Europe and the UK at the same initial price as its earlier model.
Combo Pricing
In comparison, billbil-kun claims that DJI’s price for the Mavic 4 Pro Fly More Combo will be €2,699 and £2,549, which is a bit lower than the similar Mavic 3 Pro model. Additionally, the Creator Combo offers a new RC Pro 2 controller and 512 GB of internal storage at a launch price of €3,539 and £3,209.
Accessories and Release Date
Sadly, billbil-kun has not mentioned which accessories will be included in the Fly More or Creator Combo packages. Echoing previous leaks, the source mentions that DJI will start to tease the Mavic 4 Pro on April 14, with a launch planned for April 24, 2025.
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Tags: DJI Mavic 4 Pro, Eurozone Pricing, RC 2 Pro Controller
March 26, 2025
Vivo X200 Ultra: New Camera Flagship with Advanced Processing Chips
Key Takeaways
1. Vivo uses its own Vivo V3+ chip for image signal processing in its flagship models, unlike many Android manufacturers that rely on ISPs from Mediatek and Qualcomm.
2. The Vivo V3+ chip enhances the ISPs found in competing chipsets, potentially improving photo and video quality in Vivo devices.
3. Vivo will introduce a new chip called the VS1 with the X200 Ultra, designed to work alongside the V3+ for better image processing.
4. The VS1 chip will act as a ‘pre-ISP’, processing data before it reaches the V3+, aiming to enhance algorithmic photography, especially in portrait modes.
5. The X200 Ultra is expected to be launched next month, alongside the X200s, featuring these new processing innovations.
Vivo has always chosen its own way in image signal processing. To give some background, many Android manufacturers rely on image signal processors (ISP) integrated into chipsets from Mediatek and Qualcomm. A good example is the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which currently costs $1,084.99 on Amazon, featuring a triple 18-bit ISP in the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
Unique Approach to Processing
In contrast, Vivo uses the Vivo V3+ chip in its X100 Ultra and X200 Pro models, enhancing the ISPs found in the Dimensity 9400 and Snapdragon 8 Elite, respectively. Theoretically, this approach should allow Vivo’s flagship devices to deliver better photo and video quality compared to competitors, although actual results may differ in practice.
New Innovations for X200 Ultra
Han Bo Xiao, Vivo’s product manager, has recently shared that the company will take a fresh approach with the X200 Ultra, set to be launched next month. Historically, it seemed like Vivo was going to showcase the Vivo V4 with this device. Instead, they have opted to enhance the Vivo V3+ with a new chip called the VS1, which is intended to handle various tasks.
According to Han Bo Xiao, the V3+ will still manage photo and video post-processing. On the other hand, the VS1 will act as a sort of ‘pre-ISP’, processing data before it is sent to the V3+. Built using 6 nm technology, these two chips are expected to work together to enhance the quality of images that depend heavily on algorithmic photography, particularly in portrait modes. Currently, the X200 Ultra is anticipated to launch alongside the X200s at a joint event.
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Tags: image signal processing, vivo, X200 Ultra
March 26, 2025
Viltrox Teases Launch of New AF 50mm F2.0 Air Lens Next Month
Key Takeaways
1. Viltrox is launching a new lightweight autofocus lens, likely the AF 50mm F2.0 Air, in China this April.
2. The lens weighs only 203.3 grams and is designed for full-frame cameras, available in Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount options.
3. It features a minimum focusing distance of 0.51 meters and an STM autofocus system for quiet and precise focusing.
4. The lens includes ED elements to reduce chromatic aberration, ensuring sharp images with accurate colors.
5. This release follows the successful launch of the AF 25mm F1.7 Air, which is compact, offers excellent low-light performance, and is priced at $176.
Viltrox is preparing to launch a new camera lens in China this April, exciting photographers with a new addition to its Air lineup. While details are sparse, early leaks hint that the new lens could be the AF 50mm F2.0 Air, which is an autofocus lens designed to be lightweight and suitable for full-frame cameras.
Details from the Leaks
Images from a popular Weibo insider suggest that this lens features a stylish and compact design, weighing in at only 203.3 grams. This makes it an easily portable option for those photographers who value quality along with convenience. It is expected to be available in both Sony E-mount and Nikon Z-mount options, appealing to a diverse range of users.
Focusing Features and Optical Quality
The insider also mentioned that the lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.51 meters, which is great for getting up close, especially for portraits and still-life shots. It comes with an STM (stepping motor) autofocus system that provides quiet, smooth, and precise focusing—perfect for both still images and video recordings. Moreover, the lens incorporates ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements, which help to minimize chromatic aberration, resulting in sharp images with true-to-life colors.
Recent Launch and Specifications
This anticipated release follows Viltrox’s earlier global launch of the AF 25mm F1.7 Air, which debuted earlier this month. This lens targets APS-C mirrorless cameras and is available in Sony E, Fujifilm X, and Nikon Z mounts. Weighing a mere 170 grams, it stands out as one of the most compact lenses in its category, featuring a robust metal mount and a sleek design with aperture settings managed through the camera body.
The AF 25mm F1.7 Air offers a full-frame equivalent focal length of 38mm and a bright F1.7 aperture, enabling excellent low-light capabilities and beautiful bokeh. Its autofocus is powered by an STM motor, ensuring accurate and silent operation, with support for eye and face detection. With a global price tag of $176, it has been well-received for its mix of performance, portability, and value.
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Tags: camera lens launch, Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air, Viltrox AF 50mm F2.0 Air
March 26, 2025
Insta360 Ace Pro & Pro 2 Upgrade with New Xplorer Grip Kit
Key Takeaways
1. The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is a compact action camera, measuring 72 x 52 x 38 mm, making it easy to attach to handlebars or tripods.
2. The new Xplorer Grip Kit improves handling and includes a wrist strap for secure one-handed use.
3. The Xplorer Grip Kit features a cold shoe shutter button, allowing the Ace Pro 2 to operate like a traditional camera, though settings must be adjusted via the touchscreen.
4. The Xplorer Grip Kit is priced at $84.99, while the Xplorer Bundle options are available for $419 (single battery) and $439 (dual battery).
5. The Xplorer Grip Kit is compatible with both the Insta360 Ace Pro and Ace Pro 2.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 has been available for some time now, first introduced in October 2024. As we noted previously, the Ace Pro 2 is quite small, measuring 72 x 52 x 38 mm. This compact size makes it perfect for attaching to handlebars or a tripod, but it does leave little to hold onto when you’re using it by hand.
New Accessory for Better Grip
In response to this issue, the company has launched the Xplorer Grip Kit, which is also suitable for the Insta360 Ace Pro (currently priced at $279 on Amazon). As shown in the video below, either action camera fits into this new accessory, and a wrist strap is included to help keep it secure while shooting with one hand.
Enhanced Functionality
Insta360 has added a special cold shoe shutter button that enables the Ace Pro 2 to function like a traditional compact camera. However, to adjust any settings, users will need to go back to the Ace Pro or Ace Pro 2’s touchscreen. Additionally, the Xplorer Grip 2 comes with three mounting points for attaching extra accessories.
Pricing Options
You can purchase the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Grip Kit separately for $84.99. Alternatively, Insta360 offers the Xplorer Bundle for $419 for the single battery version and $439 for the dual battery option. To give some context, these prices are just above the Standard and Get-Set bundles available for the Ace Pro 2’s configurations.
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Tags: action camera accessories, Insta360 Ace Pro 2, Xplorer Grip Kit
March 25, 2025
Sony’s 200 MP Sensor Set to Dominate Next-Gen Flagship Phones
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung has led the high-resolution camera sensor market with its 108 MP ISOCELL HM1 since the Galaxy S20 Ultra.
2. Sony is set to launch its first 200 MP CMOS sensor, featuring a larger size of 1/1.1″ compared to Samsung’s smaller 1/1.3″ and 1/1.4″ sensors.
3. Sony’s new sensor will utilize 16-in-1 pixel binning technology, yielding larger pixels for improved image quality.
4. The upcoming Sony 200 MP sensor is expected to become the top choice for flagship smartphones next year.
5. Future flagship models may feature a dual camera setup using Sony’s 200 MP sensor alongside Samsung’s ISOCELL HP9 for enhanced photography options.
Samsung’s camera division has always been a leader in the race for high-resolution sensors, beginning with the 108 MP ISOCELL HM1 that was introduced with the Galaxy S20 Ultra. However, this landscape may be changing soon as Sony appears ready to unveil a new 200 MP sensor for its flagship devices.
Sony’s New Sensor Launch
According to reports from Digital Chat Station, Sony is on the verge of launching its inaugural 200 MP CMOS sensor. This announcement follows the release of other 200 MP sensors, including Samsung’s ISOCELL HP2 and HP9, along with Omnivision’s OVB0B. What sets Sony’s 200 MP sensor apart is its larger physical size; the source indicates it will measure 1/1.1″. In contrast, the ISOCELL HP2 and HP9 sensors are smaller at 1/1.3″ and 1/1.4″, respectively.
Expectations for the Future
Given these details, it is anticipated that Sony’s forthcoming 200 MP sensor will be the preferred choice for the next generation of flagship smartphones. Its 16-in-1 pixel binning technology will provide larger pixels, surpassing even the 1-inch LYT900 found in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Allegedly, numerous flagship models launching next year could feature a dual 200 MP configuration, utilizing Sony’s new sensor as the primary camera and pairing it with the ISOCELL HP9 in a periscope setup, similar to the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
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Tags: Samsung ISOCELL, Sony 200 MP, Xiaomi 15 Ultra
March 25, 2025
GoPro Launches $129.99 Anamorphic Lens Mod for Hero 13 Black
Key Takeaways
1. GoPro launched the Hero 13 Black action camera and three new HB-Series lenses, including the recently released Anamorphic Lens Mod.
2. The Anamorphic Lens Mod captures footage in a 21:9 aspect ratio and adds lens flares, enhancing the cinematic quality of videos.
3. Prices for the lenses: Anamorphic Lens Mod at $129.99, Ultra Wide Lens Mod at $99.99, and Macro Lens Mod at $129.99.
4. GoPro offers a bundle of all three lenses with four ND filters for $349.99, saving customers money compared to purchasing items separately.
5. A future bundle with the Hero 13 Black and the HB-Series Lens Collection will be available for $699.99, saving over $125 compared to separate purchases.
When GoPro revealed the Hero 13 Black action camera in September, they also unveiled three new HB-Series lenses designed for it. Among these, two lenses — the Ultra Wide Lens Mod and the Macro Lens Mod — have been for sale since last year. However, the third lens, known as the Anamorphic Lens Mod, has just recently hit the shelves.
Unique Features of the Anamorphic Lens Mod
When users attach the Anamorphic Lens Mod to the GoPro Hero 13 Black, they can capture footage in an ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio, which gives a movie-like experience. This lens mod also introduces lens flares, enhancing the visual appeal of the videos. A great feature is that the Hero 13 Black (currently priced at $329.99 on Amazon) automatically modifies its settings when the lens is added and reverts to its original settings once the lens is taken off.
Pricing and Availability of the Lenses
The Anamorphic Lens Mod, which is both scratch-resistant and waterproof, retails for $129.99 and can be found in the GoPro shop. The Ultra Wide Lens Mod has a price tag of $99.99, while the Macro Lens Mod is also available for $129.99. GoPro is promoting a bundle called the HB-Series Lens Collection, which includes all three lenses along with a set of four ND filters for $349.99. This deal is quite reasonable for anyone looking to get all the accessories since buying each lens and the filter pack separately totals up to $425.96.
Future Bundle Offerings
Reports indicate that GoPro will provide a bundle featuring the HB-Series Lens Collection along with the Hero 13 Black for $699.99, which would save consumers over $125 if they were to buy the items separately. However, it’s important to note that this particular bundle won’t be available until the next quarter.
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Tags: Anamorphic Lens Mod, GoPro Hero 13 Black, HB-Series Lens Collection
March 25, 2025
Leica M11-V Launching Soon: Compact Full-Frame Camera Details
Key Takeaways
1. Leica is developing a new camera model, the M11-V, derived from the M11-P, featuring an electronic viewfinder (EVF) instead of a traditional rangefinder.
2. The EVF offers benefits like displaying precise image area, depth of field, and exposure settings before capturing a photo, along with potential lower pricing and maintenance costs.
3. The M11-V will sacrifice some advantages of the classic viewfinder, such as the ability to see outside the frame and manual focusing efficiency.
4. The camera is expected to maintain key specifications from the M11-P, including a 60.3 MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB internal storage, an SD card slot, and dedicated dials for shutter speed and ISO.
5. Growing anticipation for the Leica M11-V highlights its appeal to both professional and amateur photographers, combining modern features with Leica’s traditional craftsmanship.
According to some recent updates from LeicaRumors, the well-known German camera brand Leica is working on a new model derived from the Leica M11-P, but it won’t have the classic rangefinder. Instead, this new camera is expected to include an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which was previously available only as an extra add-on through the Leica Visoflex 2.
Benefits of the EVF
Using an electronic viewfinder brings many important benefits compared to the traditional rangefinder. For instance, the viewfinder’s display lets photographers see the precise image area, depth of field, and exposure settings before they take a shot. Furthermore, the upcoming Leica M11-V might come at a more affordable price since the costly rangefinder feature is being eliminated. This change could also lead to lower maintenance costs, as electronic viewfinders don’t need the readjustment that rangefinders do.
Trade-offs to Consider
On the flip side, switching to an electrical viewfinder means that the Leica M11-V will forfeit some perks of the classic viewfinder, like being able to see outside the frame or manually focusing rapidly and accurately. There are already hints about the Leica M11-V within the Leica Photos iPhone app, leading LeicaRumors to believe that the camera’s release is just around the corner. Besides the viewfinder, it seems that the camera will still be based on the Leica M11-P, so it’s likely that Leica will once again include a 60.3 MP full-frame sensor, 256 GB of internal storage, an SD card slot, and separate dials for shutter speed and ISO settings.
Anticipation for the New Model
The anticipation around the Leica M11-V is growing, especially with the promise of advanced features and a competitive price. As technology continues to evolve, this new camera could attract both professional and amateur photographers alike. The combination of modern features with Leica’s traditional craftsmanship might just make this new model a must-have for enthusiasts.
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Tags: electronic viewfinder, Leica M11-P, Leica M11-V
March 24, 2025
GoPro Hero 13 Black White Variant: Why the Original is Better
Key Takeaways
1. The GoPro Hero 13 Black was revealed in September 2024 and is available in a new color option, Polar White, alongside the traditional black model.
2. The Polar White version has the same features as the black model, with no functional differences, but offers a fresh look for users who prefer it.
3. The pricing for both the Polar White and black GoPro Hero 13 Black is $399.99, but the black model is currently available at a discounted price of $329.99.
4. GoPro is offering a $70 discount on the black Hero 13 Black, which is about an 18% reduction from its initial price.
5. Prices mentioned are subject to change, and Notebookcheck is not responsible for any price fluctuations by retailers.
The GoPro Hero 13 Black is the newest action camera from GoPro. It was revealed in September 2024 and is sold in a single black or dark gray option. Recently, GoPro introduced a new color called Polar White.
New Color Option
The Polar White version of the GoPro Hero 13 Black shares all the same features as the black model. There aren’t any functional differences between the two. That said, some users who find the traditional black color dull might like the fresh white look better. It’s worth noting that the camera isn’t fully white; the bezels surrounding the displays and lens remain black. The mounting system underneath is also black, while the GoPro logo and model name appear in blue.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, the Polar White GoPro Hero 13 is priced at $399.99 on the GoPro online store, which is the same price as the original black version when it first launched. However, if you don’t have a strong preference for the white model, it’s advisable to consider the black one, which is now available at a lower price.
GoPro is providing a $70 discount on the black Hero 13 Black, which represents about an 18% reduction from its initial price. You can also find it on Amazon for the discounted price of $329.99, although that price is still higher than the DJI Osmo Action 4, which is currently offered at $209 (30% off) on Amazon.
Important Note
Please remember that Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The offers and prices mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of writing and may be limited in time or availability.
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Tags: action camera, GoPro Hero 13 Black, Polar White
March 21, 2025
Fujifilm GFX100RF: 102MP Medium Format Compact Camera Unveiled
Key Takeaways
1. The Fujifilm GFX100RF features a 102 MP medium format sensor for superior image quality.
2. It has a classic design with a metal body, leather covering, and manual controls for shutter speed, ISO, and aperture.
3. The camera includes a compact 35 mm f/4 lens with advanced elements for improved clarity and a quiet leaf shutter.
4. It is equipped with a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a 3.15-inch tilting touchscreen, supporting 4K video recording.
5. The GFX100RF will be released in April with a retail price of $4,899 / £4,699 / €5,499.
Whilst it seeks to build on the triumph of the X100 VI, the Fujifilm GFX100RF is crafted to provide even superior image quality thanks to its 102 MP medium format sensor. The “RF” in its title indicates “rangefinder-style fixed lens,” highlighting the camera’s unique design.
Classic Design Features
The GFX100RF features the traditional Fujifilm aesthetic, combining a metal body available in black or silver with a covering of black leather. With an aperture ring on the lens and dedicated dials for shutter speed and ISO settings, users can enjoy complete manual control without having to delve into menus. Unique elements include an aspect ratio dial that allows switching between formats, from 1:1 square to 65:25 panorama shots. Additionally, Fujifilm’s “digital teleconverter” employs digital zoom to emulate lenses with focal lengths of 45 mm, 63 mm, or 80 mm.
Compact and Efficient Lens
To maintain the compact size of the GFX100RF, Fujifilm has chosen a relatively slow 35 mm f/4 lens, which corresponds to 28 mm f/3.2 in 35 mm photography. The lens consists of ten elements organized into eight groups, featuring two aspherical elements that enhance image clarity. It can focus on subjects as near as 20 cm (7.9 in). It’s important to mention that Fujifilm measures this distance from the lens’ front element, unlike the sensor, which is the common practice. The camera’s leaf shutter also contributes to its notably quiet operation.
Advanced Viewfinder Technology
Interestingly, Fujifilm opted not to incorporate a hybrid viewfinder like that of the X100 VI. Instead, the GFX100RF is equipped with a high-resolution electronic viewfinder boasting 5.76 million dots, in addition to a 3.15-inch tilting touchscreen that has a 3:2 aspect ratio. The camera features a 102 MP medium format sensor, enabling it to record 4K videos at 30 fps. Completing the features are Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, and a high-speed USB-C port that supports 10 Gbps.
The Fujifilm GFX100RF is scheduled to be released in April, with a retail price of $4,899 / £4,699 / €5,499. For further details, you can check out the official product page regarding the GFX100RF.
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Tags: 102 MP medium format, Fujifilm GFX100RF, rangefinder-style camera