Category: Video / Photo

March 12, 2025

Insta360 Teases 2025 Leica Action Camera Lineup

Key Takeaways

1. Insta360 will continue its partnership with Leica Camera AG for at least one more product cycle, allowing for new action cameras under the Leica brand.
2. The specific products covered by this agreement have not been disclosed, but enhancements to action and 360° imaging are expected.
3. The upcoming Ace Pro 2 will feature a SUPER-SUMMARIT-A lens by Leica and aims for exceptional low-light performance and dynamic range.
4. New high-end modular products in the One R series may be developed, featuring specs like 8K recording and advanced stabilization.
5. The Ace Pro 2 is currently available for $419.99 on Amazon.

Insta360 has revealed that it will continue its “Strategic Imaging Partnership” with Leica Camera AG for at least one more product cycle today (March 12, 2025). This means that Insta360 will be able to keep launching action cameras under the Leica brand throughout this year.

Product Coverage Unclear

So far, neither company has specified which products this agreement will include. However, it seems they will likely enhance Insta360’s “mission to redefine what’s possible in action and 360° imaging.” This suggests that the next generation of the OEM’s X line of dual-camera accessories will probably be part of this, alongside the new Ace Pro 2. The Ace Pro 2 will be a more traditional action camera featuring a SUPER-SUMMARIT-A lens designed by Leica for its 1/1.3-inch sensor, which aims to deliver “industry-leading low-light performance, superior dynamic range, and refined image processing.”

Future Hardware Developments

There could also be some new additions to the high-end, modular One R series in the future. These products are expected to be equipped with impressive specs, like 8K recording, advanced stabilization, and, naturally, more AI capabilities in the near future.

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Tags: Ace Pro 2, Insta360
March 12, 2025

Canon Teases Affordable PowerShot Cameras and New Retro EOS Models

Key Takeaways

1. Canon is exploring the creation of a retro-style camera, focusing on ergonomics, but a release is unlikely this year.
2. The company is developing a new APS-C camera to compete with models like the Sony ZV-E10 II, aimed at social media users.
3. The upcoming Canon EOS RV is rumored to include features tailored for video, enhancing its appeal in the compact APS-C market.
4. The PowerShot V3 will be a budget-friendly power-zoom version of the PowerShot V1, which is currently Canon’s flagship compact camera.
5. Canon manufactures its own sensors, demonstrating commitment to the compact camera market through in-house production and R&D efforts.

We recently shared news about two new Canon cameras on the horizon: a small APS-C model that targets the Sony ZV-E10 II and a new PowerShot V3, which adds a power-zoom feature to the recently revealed PowerShot V1. In an interview at the CP+ show with Phototrend, Canon officials provided some insights about these upcoming products, but you’ll need to interpret their words carefully.

Interest in Retro Cameras

Canon engineer Manabu Kato mentioned that the company has noticed the demand for a retro-style camera, similar to the Nikon Z f (currently priced at $2,396.95 on Amazon), and they are seemingly putting effort into how to create such a camera. Kato hinted that one of the key issues with a retro camera—something that has apparently held Canon back from entering the retro market until now—is ergonomics. However, he didn’t outright dismiss the recent speculations about a retro model inspired by the iconic AE-1. Still, if Canon is looking to introduce a retro camera design, it likely won’t happen this year.

APS-C Camera Developments

When it comes to Canon’s APS-C series, which was recently mentioned in connection with a potential new hybrid camera aimed at social media users, Kato was not very revealing about specifics, but he encouraged fans to “Stay tuned.” He acknowledged the current anticipation surrounding future APS-C models and indicated that Canon intends to fulfill those expectations.

This essentially confirms that Canon is gearing up to compete in the compact APS-C market, which is currently dominated by models like the Sony ZV-E10 II (currently $999 at Best Buy) and Fujifilm’s well-regarded X-T series along with the new X-M5. It appears that this competition will take the shape of the Canon EOS RV, which has been rumored to include features tailored for video.

PowerShot V3 Insights

Recently, the Canon PowerShot V3 also surfaced as a likely more budget-friendly power-zoom version of the Canon PowerShot V1, which debuted earlier this year for around $990. Canon’s Go Tokura stated that the PowerShot V1 “Will be our flagship compact device,” suggesting that the V1 might be the most expensive model in the PowerShot range for now. Additionally, Yasuhiko Shiomi confirmed that the 1.4-inch sensor in the Canon PowerShot V1 is produced in-house rather than being sourced from another supplier.

Canon has a history of manufacturing its own sensors for many of its cameras, and by investing in R&D and producing its own sensor for the PowerShot series, it shows that Canon is dedicated to the compact camera market for the foreseeable future.

Phototrend

Image credit: Nsey Benajah on Unsplash

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Tags: APS-C camera, Canon, PowerShot V1
March 11, 2025

360° Rotating 4K Omni Dash Cam with Sony Starvis 2 Night Vision

Key Takeaways

1. 360° View: The 70mai 4K Omni dash cam offers a full 360° view with its unique 340° rotating feature, making it the first of its kind.
2. High Resolution: It captures video in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, ensuring clear and detailed footage while driving.
3. Advanced Night Vision: Equipped with Lumi-Vision and Sony’s Night Owl Vision, the dash cam provides reliable footage in low light conditions.
4. Smart Features: Includes live streaming, ADAS for detecting pedestrians and cyclists, smart voice control, and emergency video recording.
5. Pricing: The 4K Omni dash cam is priced at $329.99 on Amazon, with a limited-time discount of $33.

The Chinese company 70mai, known for its dash cams, has unveiled its latest product globally: the 4K Omni dash cam. They’re promoting it as the first dash cam to offer a full 360° view of the environment, made possible by its unique 340° rotating feature. This new dash cam is outfitted with a Sony IMX678 sensor that uses Sony’s advanced Starvis 2 technology, providing a wide 140° field of view. It’s capable of reaching up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, which allows it to capture every single detail with crystal-clear quality, even when driving fast.

Advanced Features

In addition to the high-resolution front camera, the 4K Omni also includes a rear camera with a resolution of 1080p, utilizing the Sony IMX662 HDR sensor. This rear camera allows for both vertical and horizontal mirroring, ensuring full 360° coverage. The dash cam comes packed with a variety of functionalities, such as live streaming to monitor your surroundings in real time, continuous time-lapse recording, loop recording, instant app alerts for collisions, and dual HDR capabilities for better visibility in both well-lit and dark settings.

Night Vision Technology

This surveillance device leverages 70mai’s proprietary Lumi-Vision technology, which the company claims provides dependable footage even in very low light conditions. Additionally, it features Night Owl Vision and Starvis 2 Night Vision technologies from Sony, which aim to enhance clarity during nighttime with improved exposure balance, minimized noise, and better glare management.

The 4K Omni also includes built-in GPS for functionalities like live route tracking and a ‘Find My Car’ feature. It’s equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) that can identify pedestrians and cyclists. Other highlights include smart voice control, AI motion detection 2.0, emergency video recording (10 seconds before and 20 seconds after an impact), and WiFi 6 connectivity that allows for fast data transfers of up to 20 MB/s. You can also manage the dash cam easily through 70mai’s dedicated app.

Pricing and Availability

Currently, the 4K Omni dash cam is available on Amazon in the United States for $329.99, and there’s a special limited-time discount of $33.

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Tags: dash cam, night vision
March 11, 2025

BlitzWolf BW-VT2 Pro Max: Battery Projector & Bluetooth Speaker

Key Takeaways

1. The BlitzWolf BW-VT2 Pro Max projector is priced around $290 but may lack customer support for defects when purchased from Chinese marketplaces.
2. It has a low brightness rating of 180 ANSI lumens and a native resolution of 960 x 540 pixels, marketed as a 4K projector.
3. The projector features automatic keystone correction, an 8,000mAh battery lasting up to four hours, and two built-in 3-watt speakers.
4. It runs on Android 9, providing access to streaming services via built-in WiFi and has a USB port for direct file playback.
5. The projector includes a tripod, remote control, carrying case, and supports 3D content, though its large projection size claim may not be practical due to brightness limitations.

BlitzWolf has introduced a new projector known as the BW-VT2 Pro Max, which you can purchase for approximately $290 from a Chinese marketplace like Banggood. This price is said to cover import fees; however, if there’s a defect, customers might not get much support from the seller. For those who prefer more security, there are similar projectors on Amazon that come with warranties and free return options.

Brightness and Resolution

Moving on, the BW-VT2 Pro Max has a brightness rating of only 180 ANSI lumens, which is quite dim when compared to typical projectors. Because of this, it’s recommended to use the device in darker environments. Even though the projector has a native resolution of just 960 x 540 pixels, it is marketed as a 4K projector. This essentially means it can play 4K videos, which isn’t particularly remarkable nowadays.

Features and Battery Life

Setting up the BlitzWolf projector should be straightforward, thanks to its automatic keystone correction feature. Additionally, it comes with a built-in 8,000mAh battery, allowing it to function without being plugged into a power source. When fully charged, it can last for up to four hours in energy-saving mode. The device also includes two built-in 3-watt speakers, and users can utilize the BW-VT2 Pro Max as a regular Bluetooth speaker if they wish.

Streaming and Accessories

As noted earlier, you won’t need any external inputs since Android 9 is integrated, granting access to a variety of streaming services via its built-in WiFi. There’s also a USB port available for playing files directly from a thumb drive.

Lastly, this projector comes complete with a tripod, remote control, carrying case, and is compatible with 3D content using active shutter glasses. BlitzWolf claims that the projection size can reach up to 300 inches, but given its limited brightness, this claim may be more theoretical than practical.

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Tags: BlitzWolf, Projector
March 11, 2025

OM System Develops New M43 Compact Camera as PEN Series Successor

Key Takeaways

1. OM System is actively developing an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera, indicating its importance in their product lineup.
2. The new Pen camera will likely continue to utilize the Micro Four Thirds system.
3. OM System aims to appeal to a wide audience, particularly those new to standalone cameras who may currently prefer smartphones.
4. The upcoming Pen camera will compete with compact models like the Canon PowerShot V1, PowerShot V3, and Sony ZV-E10 II, targeting social media users.
5. Potential features may include simpler controls to attract smartphone users, similar to existing models like the Fujifilm X-T50.

Olympus, now known as OM System, has fans of the Micro Four Thirds community eagerly awaiting an upgraded version of the Olympus Pen-F camera. This camera was a pioneer in the compact Micro Four Thirds category. When OM System revealed the OM System OM-3, a compact interchangeable-lens M43 camera with retro design, many believed it would take the place of the Pen F.

Updates on the Pen Camera

However, Kazuhiro Togashi, the Vice President of Brand Planning and Product Strategy at OM System, stated (through PetaPixel) that the company is looking into ways to create an updated Pen camera. PetaPixel also mentioned in the comments section that OM System has confirmed the Pen camera is “in active development.” While this doesn’t clarify a specific release date, it’s certainly positive news for those who appreciate the Pen series.

Togashi shared, “We think the Pen series is a key part of our lineup. We’re examining how successful the Pen series has been, but the OM-3 is not a replacement for the Pen. The Pen series continues to be vital to our offerings, and we are actively thinking about what new Pen model we can provide as OM System.”

Future Directions for the Pen Series

This indicates that any upcoming compact Pen camera will likely still utilize the Micro Four Thirds system. Additional comments from the same interview imply that OM System plans to appeal to a broad audience with the next Pen camera.

“We want to ensure that photographers find joy in using the camera. We’re really looking into what kind of product may be more appealing for new users. Some might still prefer their smartphones, but might have a budding interest in standalone cameras.”

OM System will then be going head-to-head with products like the Canon PowerShot V1, the recently revealed PowerShot V3, and the Sony ZV-E10 II (currently priced at $998 on Amazon). These models target a demographic that focuses on compact cameras for their social media needs. Although it’s still quite early in the process, any camera aimed at this audience will probably need to be priced reasonably — somewhere between $900 and $1,500 — to resonate with most buyers.

Potential Features and Controls

OM System’s remarks about attracting smartphone users hint that they may choose to have simpler controls, similar to the film simulation dial on the Fujifilm X-T50 (currently available for $1,399 at Best Buy).

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Tags: Micro Four Thirds, OM System
March 10, 2025

Leica Lux Grip: Elevate Your iPhone Photography Skills

Key Takeaways

1. Enhanced Grip: The Lux Grip offers a secure hold for iPhones, mimicking the feel of a real Leica camera while ensuring stability in both portrait and landscape modes.

2. Long-lasting Battery: The grip’s internal battery supports up to 1,000 shots and recharges in two hours, making it ideal for on-the-go photographers.

3. Temperature Resilience: The Lux Grip operates effectively in a wide temperature range, from -10° C to 60° C (14° F to 140° F), suitable for various environments.

4. Exclusive App Access: Buyers receive 12 months of access to the Pro features of the Leica Lux App, enhancing photo editing with classic Leica aesthetics.

5. Pricing and Availability: The Leica Lux Grip is priced at €300/$329 and is available through Leica and authorized sellers.

Leica has introduced the Lux Grip designed for MagSafe Apple iPhones. This grip features an aluminum frame that brings a genuine Leica camera vibe to smartphones, while also offering added mechanical controls for a more hands-on photography experience.

Enhanced Grip for Better Control

Smartphones are usually made of glass, making them hard to hold securely. Although phone cases can improve grip, they don’t match the solid feeling of holding a real Leica camera. The Lux Grip guarantees a firm hold, whether you’re using the iPhone in vertical (portrait) or horizontal (landscape) mode, and it weighs just 130 grams (4.59 oz.). Photographers can trust the robust MagSafe connection to prevent accidental drops.

Long-lasting Battery Life

The internal battery of the grip allows for 1,000 shots before it needs a two-hour recharge with any USB-C power source. This feature is particularly reassuring for bloggers and vloggers, as the grip functions well in temperatures ranging from -10° C to 60° C (14° F to 140° F) around the globe.

Exclusive App Benefits

Purchasing the Leica Lux Grip gives customers a 12-month access to the Pro features of the Leica Lux App. All buyers of the grip can also use the Lux App for free. This app enables users to create the classic Leica aesthetic in their images, offering various color modes (Leica Classic, Contemporary, Black & White, Vivid, or Leica I Model A), complete manual control, and emulation of traditional Leica lens qualities like the Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 (available on Amazon).

The Leica Lux Grip is priced at €300/$329 and can be obtained from Leica and its authorized sellers.

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Tags: MagSafe
March 8, 2025

HaoHan FireFly Drone: Tilt Rotors, Airplane Design, 56-Mile Range

Key Takeaways

1. The HaoHan FireFly features a unique airplane-like design with tilting rotors, allowing for vertical takeoff and landing.
2. The drone can travel up to 56 miles on a single charge with an optional larger battery, maintaining a speed of around 35 mph.
3. Weighing between 3.3 to 4 lbs, the FireFly is aimed at a more professional audience.
4. The remote control has a range of up to 9.3 miles under ideal conditions.
5. The FireFly does not come with built-in cameras but has a mount for action cameras and can accommodate additional camera modules.

The majority of drones on the market today utilize a quadcopter design, characterized by four separate rotors. These rotors are responsible for steering the drone, eliminating the need for extra rudders. In contrast, the new HaoHan FireFly is designed more like a small airplane with rotors that can tilt.

Unique Design Features

This unique design enables the FireFly to take off and land vertically, much like a typical quadcopter. After it has taken off, the rotors can be tilted forward, which, according to the manufacturer, leads to decreased energy usage while flying. When equipped with an optional larger battery, this drone is said to travel up to 56 miles on a single charge, provided it maintains a maximum speed of around 35 miles per hour.

Heavyweight Performance

Not surprisingly, the drone has a significant weight, ranging from 3.3 to 4 lbs depending on its setup, indicating that HaoHan is targeting a more professional audience. In ideal conditions, the remote control can reach as far as 9.3 miles.

Camera Options

Unlike DJI drones, the HaoHan FireFly does not come with built-in cameras. Instead, it features a mount designed for action cameras, and various additional camera modules can be added to the front. However, these camera options are not currently available. The dimensions of the drone are 42.5 x 27.2 x 14.8 inches, and it can be taken apart to fit into a case of about 23 x 18 x 10 inches.

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March 8, 2025

New Canon EOS RV Leaks: Compact Hybrid Camera with APS-C Sensor

Key Takeaways

1. Canon is set to launch more compact cameras, including the recently leaked PowerShot V3 and the EOS RV with interchangeable lenses.
2. The Canon EOS RV may compete with the Sony ZV-E10 II and is expected to feature a 24 MP sensor similar to the EOS M50 II.
3. The EOS RV will include ergonomic and video features, such as multiple ports, a front microphone button, and various tactile controls.
4. Despite its compact size, the EOS RV will have a significant hand grip and a side-mounted 1/4-inch thread for accessories, but no electronic viewfinder (EVF) is expected.
5. The design aims to balance enthusiast-level video capabilities with user-friendly features, making it suitable for travel and street photography.

Canon seems to be sticking to its word about launching more compact cameras in the near future. We’ve already observed the Canon PowerShot V1, and just recently, there’s been a leak about the PowerShot V3, which serves as a power-zoom option. Now, it looks like we might finally see the “new form factor” that earlier leaks hinted at.

Interchangeable Lens Development

A fresh batch of leaks suggests that Canon is working on a compact camera with interchangeable lenses under the EOS line, rather than the newly updated PowerShot V series. These leaks are regarding the Canon EOS RV (possibly standing for EOS R Video?), which might be Canon’s attempt to go head-to-head with the Sony ZV-E10 II.

Sources of Information

Currently, two main sources are shedding light on the Canon EOS RV: CanonRumors and The New Camera. The latter claims to have a preliminary spec sheet for the EOS RV, although the authenticity of this information is uncertain, considering how early in the leak process we are. Nevertheless, the leaked specs indicate that the Canon EOS RV will come equipped with a 24 MP sensor, resembling that of the Canon EOS M50 II, which is available for $994.95 on Amazon. The leaked images show the sensor positioned behind a lens mount, but it’s not clear whether it’s an EF-M mount or the larger RF mount.

Ergonomics and Features

The EOS RV appears to be loaded with ergonomic and video features, boasting numerous ports, a front-mounted microphone button, and plenty of tactile controls. On the top, there seems to be a hot shoe for accessories, large openings for a built-in microphone system, and several dials. The shutter is integrated into what seems like a zoom lever, positioned in front of two dials—one being a mode dial and the other an unlabelled programmable option.

Compact Size and Grip

Despite its compact design, the EOS RV also looks like it will have a sizeable hand grip, addressing a common gripe among compact camera users. Additionally, there appears to be a side-mounted 1/4-inch thread for tripods, grips, and other accessories. However, it seems that there won’t be an EVF included.

From what we can infer from these specifications and the leaked images, the Canon EOS RV seems poised to strike a balance between enthusiast-level video capabilities and a form factor that would attract general users, making it suitable for high-quality travel or street photography.

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Tags: Canon EOS RV, compact camera, PowerShot V3
March 8, 2025

Quirky Escura InstantSnap Camera: Instant Photos with Open Frame Viewfinder

Key Takeaways

1. Escura Camera introduced the InstantSnap, a lightweight digital camera with a 1.3 MP sensor, at Japan’s CP+ 2025 camera show.
2. The camera lacks an LCD screen and uses a framing cutout instead, adding a playful challenge to composing shots.
3. It features a shutter button and a switch for a questionable video mode, along with options for effects and frames.
4. A special ‘Showa Model’ variant offers retro designs and unique effects, appealing to nostalgic users.
5. The InstantSnap will launch in May for 7,000 yen (~$47), but users may find better value in practical options like toy instant cameras.

Escura Camera, known for its instant film back for Hasselblad cameras, has introduced a unique digital camera that resembles an instant photo. The Escura InstantSnap was revealed at Japan’s CP+ 2025 camera show and features a lightweight design, weighing only 28 grams, with a basic 1.3 MP camera inside.

Framing Your Shot

This camera doesn’t come with an LCD screen. Instead, it has a cutout in its credit-card sized body, which you must align with your subject to get the perfect frame. While getting the framing right may be a challenge at first, this unpredictability adds to the fun of using a toy camera such as this one.

Features and Drawbacks

Besides the shutter button, the InstantSnap includes a small switch that lets you toggle between a (somewhat questionable) video mode or apply effects and frames to your photos. However, don’t expect too much from the tiny 1.3 MP sensor with a fixed shutter speed, and what looks like a 3.2mm f/2.8 lens, as mentioned by PetaPixel.

Retro Vibes

Additionally, there’s a ‘Showa Model’ that features some cool retro designs on its otherwise plain body, along with special frames and effects.

The Escura InstantSnap is set to launch in May for 7,000 yen, approximately $47. While it’s an adorable and eye-catching gadget, you might find better value in something a bit more practical, like a toy instant camera aimed at kids. For just a little more, you could also opt for the Kodak Printomatic instant camera.

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March 7, 2025

Fujifilm GFX 100 RF Leaked Photos Ahead of March 20 Announcement

Key Takeaways

1. The Fujifilm GFX 100 RF is a compact medium format camera with a sensor size 67% larger than full-frame sensors.
2. It features a simple black exterior, an electronic viewfinder, and dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation, along with a new aspect ratio dial and a crop lever for digital zoom.
3. The official announcement is set for March 20 during the Fujifilm X Summit in Prague, with a launch price expected around $5,000.
4. The camera will include a 100 MP medium format sensor paired with a 35 mm f/4 lens, equivalent to a 28 mm f/3.2 lens in 35 mm format.
5. The lens is likely not interchangeable, which may limit its performance in low-light conditions compared to competitors like the Leica Q3.

After many details leaked about the Fujifilm GFX 100 RF last December, Andrea Pizzini and FujiRumors have now shared the first two images thought to show the compact medium format camera. It is said that the camera will be just a little bigger than the Fujifilm X-Pro 3 or Leica Q3, even though its sensor size is 43.9 x 32.9 mm (~1.7 x 1.3 in), which is 67% larger than a full-frame sensor.

Design and Features

Fujifilm has chosen a fairly simple, black exterior that showcases the typical Fuji style, managing to include an electronic viewfinder within the camera’s small form factor. The camera features specific dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation. A notable new addition is a dial on the back that allows users to choose the aspect ratio when taking pictures. There’s also an interesting “crop lever” that enables users to activate digital zoom.

Official Announcement

In the teaser video shared below, Fujifilm has all but confirmed that the GFX 100 RF will be officially revealed on March 20 during the Fujifilm X Summit in Prague. The expected launch price is around $5,000, and it will come with a 100 MP medium format sensor paired with a 35 mm f/4 lens, which is equivalent to a 28 mm f/3.2 lens in 35 mm format.

Should the rumors hold true, such a slow lens could undermine the advantages of having a larger sensor. For example, the Leica Q3 utilizes a full-frame sensor and a 28 mm f/1.7 lens to produce low-noise images in dim lighting and create a shallow depth of field. The lens on the Fujifilm GFX 100 RF is likely not interchangeable, or at least there doesn’t appear to be a button for that.

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Tags: Medium-format Camera, photography gear