Category: Video / Photo

  • Insta360 Announces Launch Date for Flow 2 and Flow 2 Pro Gimbals

    Insta360 Announces Launch Date for Flow 2 and Flow 2 Pro Gimbals

    Insta360 has revealed when it will unveil its upcoming product, just two months after updating its X4 action camera (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon) with an exclusive BMW Motorrad Edition. As always, the company has only given us a few hints about what we can expect next.

    Clues About the Release

    There’s already some evidence suggesting what Insta360 might soon launch. For example, a prominent retailer in the UK released a complete product listing for the Flow 2 camera gimbal back in late November. Following that, a trusted leaker, Igor Bogdanov, shared what looked like the retail packaging for the Flow 2 Pro.

    Teaser Video Insights

    Insta360’s recent teaser video suggests that new camera gimbal technology is on its way. Additionally, the company has included the phrase ‘stayed locked in’, which we believe refers to features like ‘AI-powered’ subject tracking, zoom tracking, and person re-identification, all of which were hinted at in the leaks from November. It seems that Insta360 will promote these upgrades under the name ‘Deep Track 4.0’, along with other features such as 360-degree ‘infinite pan’ tracking. The official announcement for this product is set for January 16 at 13:00 UTC.

    Anticipation Builds

    As we wait for more details, excitement grows around what Insta360 will bring to market next. The hints and leaks have sparked curiosity, and many are eager to see how the new gimbal will compare to its predecessors. With the advancements in AI and tracking features, this release could signify a major leap forward for the company and its users alike.

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  • 2TB SSD for iPhone: ShiftCam Planck Data Transfer 1,050 MB/s

    2TB SSD for iPhone: ShiftCam Planck Data Transfer 1,050 MB/s

    ShiftCam is introducing one of the tiniest SSDs globally, named Planck. This SSD has been specifically designed for the Apple iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 16 Pro. Its compact design means it hardly interferes with smartphone usage and adds very little weight, which is crucial for stability when using gimbals for video recording.

    Essential for High-Quality Video

    Apple ProRes videos recorded at 4K resolution and 120 frames per second consume a hefty 440 MB per second, equating to 264 GB for just ten minutes. Because of this, external SSDs are essential for these types of video projects. The Planck SSD boasts impressive data speeds of up to 1,050 MB/s, ensuring it can handle all ProRes formats efficiently. Plus, transferring numerous photos and videos from the iPhone to the SSD can be done swiftly.

    Built to Last

    The ShiftCam Planck is built to be shockproof and holds an IP65 rating, indicating it can endure heavy rain without damage. Additionally, ShiftCam includes a USB-C hub that enables the use of two Planck SSDs at once. This hub is also equipped with an HDMI port for connecting to an external monitor, allowing users to view their media on a larger screen effortlessly. Notably, the Planck is more affordable than Apple’s storage options: Apple charges an extra $500 to upgrade the iPhone 16 Pro from 128 GB to 1 TB, while the 1 TB ShiftCam Planck costs just $189.

    Pricing and Launch Details

    The ShiftCam Planck SSD is anticipated to be available in spring 2025, offering a 1 TB version for $189 and a 2 TB version for $299. During January, pre-orders will be taken as part of a Kickstarter campaign for $125 and $199, respectively. Information regarding the pricing and availability of the Planck USB-C hub is yet to be announced. Kickstarter campaign for $125

    Source: Link


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  • DJI Mini 5 and Neo 2 Drone Rumors Spark Excitement

    DJI Mini 5 and Neo 2 Drone Rumors Spark Excitement

    On the whole, drone leakers like Igor Bogdanov, OsitaLV, and Jasper Ellens are focused on the DJI Flip, which is widely expected to be the company’s next consumer drone. Nevertheless, Ellens has also shared some other hints regarding two additional DJI drones that are on the horizon.

    Upcoming Models

    To provide some context, there are circulating rumors about DJI getting ready to launch the Mavic 4 and Mavic 4 Pro very soon. Furthermore, just under a month ago, Ellens and OsitaLV were the first to mention the Mini 5 series. According to OsitaLV, unnamed sources have indicated that the Mini 5 drones are expected to arrive ‘late 2025’, likely after the Mavic 4 series is released.

    Changes in the Lineup

    Additionally, Ellens has noted that DJI plans to replace the Neo (currently priced at $238 on Amazon) this year, even though this particular drone was only released in September. Interestingly, the same leaker also states that their contacts have informed them that both the Neo 2 and Mini 5 are set for a ‘simultaneous’ launch. Therefore, we can anticipate more leaks about the Neo 2 and Mini 5 appearing sometime this summer.

    Source: Link


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  • Godox MA5R: Magnetic Wireless Power Bank with Full-Color Light

    Godox MA5R: Magnetic Wireless Power Bank with Full-Color Light

    The Godox MA5R, while not the tiniest or lightest option available, is still compact enough to fit in a pocket and serves many smartphone users well, as it has a size and weight comparable to an average smartphone. This device functions as a slim wireless power bank with 5,000 mAh and features a magnetic attachment. However, what makes it particularly interesting is its dual functionality as a selfie lamp (ranging from 2800K to 6500K) and a pocket light (with a range of 1800K to 10000K).

    Power Ratings and Usage

    The two lights mentioned above have power ratings of 5 W for the filling light and 0.8 W for the selfie function. Even though 5,000 mAh might seem a little low for a power bank nowadays, using the Godox MA5R as either a pocket light or selfie lamp provides users with over 3.5 hours of usage at full brightness. If you lower the brightness to half, you can expect to double that time.

    Connectivity and Color Options

    Users can manage this accessory using the Godox Light app, which allows for easy control via NFC and Bluetooth. There are six color options available: red, white, green, black, pink, and blue. No matter which color is chosen, the price stays the same at $49. However, local taxes and retailers might increase the price in certain areas.

    Source: Link

  • Dangbei Freedo: 1080p Portable Cinema in Travel Cup Size

    Dangbei Freedo: 1080p Portable Cinema in Travel Cup Size

    Dangbei has created its newest projector to resemble the Odense Legodt tumbler found on Amazon, but the “handle” serves as a stand that allows the projector to move within a range of 165° (-30° to 135°).

    Versatile Projection Capabilities

    This design gives the device more flexibility to project images as large as 180 inches in various locations. To enhance user experience, Dangbei has equipped the projector with the ability to access a broad selection of content, featuring over 700,000 movies and TV shows. The Freedo is powered by Google TV and has a Netflix license, making it a versatile choice for entertainment.

    Impressive Specifications

    The projector is specified to project in 1080p, although the manufacturer mentions that it can handle 4K resolution, but this is only achievable through an HDMI connection. Additionally, it includes a USB-C port that allows charging from a power bank at a maximum of 65W when the battery, which lasts around 2.5 hours, runs out.

    Innovative Technology

    Moreover, the Freedo utilizes Dangbei’s InstanPro AI technology to enhance the image’s fit, orientation, and focus, adapting it to the specific background it is used against.

    Source: Link


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  • DJI Flip Promo Images and Specs Leaked Ahead of Release

    The upcoming compact drone from DJI seems to be nearing its launch. While the company hasn’t made any official announcements, several leakers have shared promotional images ahead of the eagerly awaited drone.

    Key Features of the Flip

    As earlier speculated, DJI is set to kick off this year with the Flip, which @Quadro_News claims will feature a 48 MP camera with a 1/1.3-inch optical format, an 82.1° field of view, and a 4x digital zoom. Additionally, this camera is expected to support 4K video recording along with DNG and RAW photo formats.

    Performance and Specifications

    Moreover, DJI is promoting the Flip as capable of flying for up to 31 minutes on a single charge, or 28 minutes when hovering, with a maximum speed of 16 m/s and a range of 14 km. It is noted that the drone reaches its maximum flight time using a 22.3 Wh (7.16V) battery, and it weighs around 249 g. Reports suggest that DJI will unveil the Flip later this month, bundled with an RC 2 controller (currently priced at $369 on Amazon) as part of the Fly More Combo package. However, no exact release date has been provided yet.

    Anticipation Builds

    As excitement grows within the drone community, everyone is looking forward to seeing how the Flip performs in real-world conditions. With its impressive specifications and features, it could be a significant addition to DJI’s lineup.

    Source: Link

  • Reolink Launches TrackMix: 4K UHD Outdoor Camera with Discount

    Reolink Launches TrackMix: 4K UHD Outdoor Camera with Discount

    Reolink has recently launched the TrackMix WiFi, a new addition to its lineup of security cameras. This innovative dual-lens camera offers both wide-angle and close-up 4K resolution viewing (3,840 x 2,160 pixels), which ensures that crucial details are captured effectively and enhances the reliability of Smart Detection. This feature enables the camera to differentiate between people, vehicles, and animals, minimizing the likelihood of false alarms.

    Features and Capabilities

    The TrackMix WiFi boasts a rotating design that can swivel 355° and tilt 90°, allowing it to monitor expansive areas without needing extra cameras. It offers a hybrid zoom of up to 6x. For nighttime use, the camera supports both color night vision and infrared night vision, with LED spotlights available for the color option. The infrared night vision is claimed to reach up to 30 meters, providing a more subtle alternative to the color night vision.

    Communication and Connectivity

    Users can engage in two-way communication with individuals in front of the camera thanks to its integrated microphone and speaker. The camera supports both wireless and wired connections, including Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet. It also allows for local storage of up to 256GB using a microSD card. Reolink asserts that the camera is built to endure harsh weather conditions, featuring a metal casing suitable for outdoor use. Several mounting options are available, enabling flexible placement in diverse locations. Additionally, the camera is equipped with a siren, allowing it to function as an alarm system.

    Reolink’s product is designed with advanced technology and user needs in mind.

    Source: Link


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  • Godox Unveils Affordable Retro-Style Flashes with USB-C Options

    Godox Unveils Affordable Retro-Style Flashes with USB-C Options

    Lighting gear expert Godox has introduced three new compact and budget-friendly flash units. The most prominent among them is the Godox iA32, which features an adjustable built-in reflector. Users can twist a knob located on the side to tilt the flash upwards, allowing for indirect lighting effects.

    Compatibility and Features

    All these flash units connect to cameras through a single pin, making them suitable for almost any camera with a hot shoe. However, they do not support TTL or HSS functionalities. The iA32 provides the option to manually adjust flash power and enter ISO and aperture settings to receive a suggested brightness level. To operate, it uses two AA batteries, which can deliver around 490 full-power flashes before needing replacement.

    Smaller Options

    In contrast, the Godox iM20 and iM22 are significantly smaller and more affordable. They do not come with a rotatable reflector or automatic mode like the iA32, and they only have five levels of manual flash adjustment. These models are powered by a built-in 470 mAh battery that enables approximately 440 full-power flashes and requires about 70 minutes to charge completely via USB-C. The iM20 and iM22 are lightweight, weighing 31 g (1.1 oz) and 34 g (1.2 oz) respectively.

    Pricing and Market Release

    The Godox iA32 is priced at $49.90 in the United States, while both the iM20 and iM22 are available for $33.90 each. As of now, there is no information on their prices or availability in Europe, but typically, new Godox items appear on the official Godox Europe online store within a few weeks of their release.

    Source: Link


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  • Apple Activates Controversial Privacy Feature Without Announcement

    Apple Activates Controversial Privacy Feature Without Announcement

    Since iOS 18 was released, the "Enhanced Visual Search" feature has automatically been turned on in the iPhone photo app. This tool lets the phone identify locations in user photos by comparing them to a global index that Apple manages. However, as developer and iPhone user Jeff Johnson pointed out in a recent blog entry, having this feature enabled by default raises privacy issues, yet it surprisingly didn’t get much attention when it launched.

    Apple’s Communication on the New Feature

    In his blog, Johnson outlines two occasions where Apple brings up this new function. The first mention is found on Apple’s website, which includes an update to the legal notice about photos and privacy. The second mention is in a blog entry titled "Combining Machine Learning and Homomorphic Encryption in the Apple Ecosystem." Both documents stress Apple’s commitment to security, but the blog gives a better understanding of how AI processes the photos that utilize "Enhanced Visual Search."

    How Enhanced Visual Search Works

    The process for enhanced visual search starts with AI analyzing a photo to see if it features a possible landmark. If a landmark is found, the phone generates a code that represents it, known as an embedding by Apple. This code is then encrypted and transmitted to Apple’s servers through third-party channels to obscure the user’s location. When Apple’s servers get the code, they look for a matching landmark in their database and send the information back for decryption. Finally, another AI on the phone identifies the best match for the landmark and labels the photo accordingly.

    Privacy Considerations for Users

    For some, this feature might be a great addition to their experience, but for others, including Johnson, it represents yet another risk to privacy. In the end, users have the choice to turn this feature on or off and weigh the privacy concerns involved. However, one should wonder how much control users actually have over their privacy choices when decisions might already be made without their knowledge.

    Jeff Johnson and Apple have brought this issue to light, but the conversation around user privacy in technology continues to be important.

    Source: Link

  • DJI Flip: Retailer Reveals Combo Packs and Specs of New Drone

    DJI Flip: Retailer Reveals Combo Packs and Specs of New Drone

    DJI is likely to launch its first foldable mini drone, which will include propeller protection, to eager pilots by January 2025. According to a French leaker, the starting price will be around €439 ($458). It is already known that there will be various options available, including a basic package without a controller, as well as one featuring a DJI RC 2 remote and a Fly More Combo, priced at €639 ($666) and €779 ($812), respectively. Recently, a Swiss online store shared more details and images prematurely, drawing attention from leakers like Jasper Ellens and Boris Bogdanov. The pictures reveal not just the package with the DJI RC 2 controller and Fly More Combo, but also show a version that comes with a classic DJI remote sans display.

    Fly More Combo Features

    The Fly More Combo is set to include a variety of extras, which comprise three batteries, a battery charger, spare propellers, and a carrying bag. Additionally, ND filters seem to be available as an optional add-on, as illustrated in the accompanying picture. The foldable mini drone weighs 249 grams and, surprisingly, boasts a flight duration of 31 minutes, despite having a larger battery compared to the DJI Mini 4 Pro.

    Camera Specifications

    It is still uncertain whether the camera stabilization system uses a two-axis or three-axis gimbal. Regardless, Jasper Ellens suggests that the camera’s quality will likely match that of the DJI Mini 4 Pro based on the latest data. The drone will feature a 1/1.3 inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing 4K/60 FPS HDR video. AI technology is expected to assist in tracking, but information remains unclear about the availability of full-auto modes or app control, similar to the DJI Neo (which can be found here on Amazon).

    Source: Link


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