Category: Video / Photo

January 21, 2025

OM System OM-3 Leaks: OM-1 Internals, Retro Design, Mid-Range Price

Last week, we talked about the OM System OM-3, a retro-style Micro Four Thirds camera that’s expected to be compact and come out in 2025. Now, fresh rumors from 43addict seem to confirm the specs and the release date for this new M4/3 camera.

Expected Features

As per the rumors, which match our earlier guesses, the OM System OM-3 will use the same 20.4 MP M4/3 sensor found in the OM-1 (curr. $1,399.99 on Amazon) and the OM-1 II (curr. $2,399.99 on Amazon). It’s not yet clear if the new camera will include the AI features present in the OM-1 II, but the hardware from the OM-1 is certainly top-tier.

Pricing and Launch

In terms of cost, the OM-3 is likely to be priced around $1,500, which is a good bit lower than the OM-1 II and about the same as the OM-1’s frequent price. Sources also hint that the official unveiling might take place during Japan’s CP+ camera show, scheduled from February 27 to March 2.

Potential Impact

The OM System OM-3 is rumored to take inspiration from Fujifilm and Panasonic, featuring special color modes for video. This is akin to the film simulations found in Fujifilm models and the LUT Library option in the Panasonic Lumix S9.

A Micro Four Thirds camera packed with high-end features at a reasonable, yet still slightly elevated, price could be precisely what the system needs to revive it after a lengthy period of inactivity. The features of the OM-3, as we’ve learned so far, may also position it as an excellent hybrid camera suitable for both photography and video tasks, and its compact design could greatly appeal to the M4/3 community.

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Tags: Micro Four Thirds, OM System OM-3
January 21, 2025

TikTok Returns to the US: Brand Thanks Trump for App Revival

Just a day ago, TikTok was facing a ban in the United States, which would have affected over 170 million users. However, within 24 hours, this restriction was lifted. The company announced the news on X (previously known as Twitter) and expressed their appreciation to US President Donald Trump.

TikTok’s Services Restored in the US

In a tweet, TikTok, the popular social media platform, released an official statement thanking President Trump for his role in allowing the app to continue serving its 170 million American users. The government provided clarity and assured TikTok that there would be no penalties for operating in the country. This decision also benefits more than 7 million small businesses that rely on the platform to reach customers.

TikTok emphasized that this represents a “strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship.” They expressed their willingness to collaborate with President Trump to find a long-term solution that secures TikTok’s presence in the United States. For those who might not know, the US Supreme Court had mandated a ban on the app unless it divested by January 19, 2025. This decision was met with backlash from many who argued it infringed on free speech and threatened democratic principles.

A Lifeline for TikTok

Donald Trump essentially served as the last chance for the company, and it appears negotiations have favored TikTok. The app resumed its services around 12 PM ET on Sunday, greeting users with a message that said, “Welcome Back!” while acknowledging Trump’s contribution to the restoration of its services. There haven’t been any new updates about ByteDance-related apps such as CapCut and Marvel Snap, so keep an eye out for more information.

Tags: Donald Trump, TikTok
January 20, 2025

DJI Mavic 4 Pro Leaks Reveal Rumored Camera Upgrades

It looks like DJI’s next premium consumer drone might be ready to launch soon, after what seems like a lengthy development phase. While DJI hasn’t made any official announcements yet, renowned drone leak expert Jasper Ellens has recently shared fresh footage of the Mavic 4 Pro, which has been seen multiple times over the past few months.

Camera Features

From the video, it looks like the Mavic 4 Pro will not include LiDAR, which was introduced last year on the Air 3S (currently priced at $1,099 on Amazon). However, the new drone will feature an impressive camera setup, reportedly housing the following specifications:

Moreover, these cameras are expected to be mounted on a new gimbal that allows for a tilt range of up to ±90 degrees. There are also whispers that the Mavic 4 Pro might deliver flight times exceeding 50 minutes, along with support for ProRes 422 HQ and ProRES 4444 XQ on its pricier Cine model. Ellens also mentions that the much-anticipated RC Track might be launched alongside the Mavic 4 Pro, but the exact timing is still uncertain.

Potential Launch

As of now, the excitement surrounding the Mavic 4 Pro continues to build, fueled by the latest leaks and speculation. Fans and enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for DJI to make an official statement, which could reveal more about the features and availability of this new drone. The community remains hopeful that all these rumors will lead to a significant upgrade in DJI’s product lineup.

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Tags: DJI, Drone Technology, Mavic 4 Pro
January 20, 2025

Leica SL3-S: 96MP Photos, 6K Recording, and Content Credentials

Leica Camera AG has introduced the Leica SL3-S, the newest member of its SL-System family. This is the first camera in the SL-System to incorporate Content Credentials technology, which is in line with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) aimed at ensuring photo authenticity and transparency.

Impressive Specifications

The SL3-S boasts a 24 MP BSI-CMOS full-frame sensor that enables Multi-Shot resolutions of 48 MP and 96 MP. With an ISO range from 50 to 200,000, this sensor provides excellent dynamic range and maintains high quality across different lighting situations. It also features a sophisticated phase-detection autofocus system that enables precise tracking and can shoot continuously at up to 30 fps.

Innovative Features

Equipped with Content Credentials technology, the SL3-S integrates secure metadata into images, capturing details like camera specs, author info, and editing history. The camera supports video recording up to 6K in 3:2 Open Gate formats, enhancing its versatility. It also includes ProRes 4:2:2HQ recording, HDMI RAW output, USB-C SSD recording, and a timecode interface, making it suitable for professional workflows. Powered by the Maestro IV processor, the camera excels in delivering accurate colors, a broad dynamic range, and minimal noise in Leica’s L-Log color space.

Connectivity and Compatibility

The SL3-S provides dual card slots for CFexpress Type B and UHS-II SD cards, along with USB-C tethering and full-size HDMI 2.1 output. Its built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow for easy integration with the Leica FOTOS app for quick DNG image transfers. Furthermore, it is certified under Apple’s “Made for iPhone® and iPad®” program, enabling direct connections to Apple devices. In 2025, Camera-to-Cloud functionality via Adobe Frame.io will be available for immediate uploads and post-production work.

The SL3-S is compatible with Leica and L-Mount Alliance lenses, and adapters are available for cine lenses, with dedicated video settings to enhance performance. It also features in-body stabilization that offers up to five stops, improving usability with Leica M lenses.

User-Friendly Design

The camera sports a 3.2-inch tiltable touchscreen and a high-resolution EyeRes electronic viewfinder that refreshes at 120 fps. The user interface allows for smooth transitions between photo and video modes. Its compact and lightweight design ensures comfortable handling during extended shooting sessions.

Pricing and Availability

You can now find the Leica SL3-S at Leica Stores, authorized dealers, and the Leica Online Store for €5,190 (VAT included). For further details, check out leica-camera.com/sl3-s.

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Tags: full-frame camera, Leica SL3-S
January 19, 2025

TikTok Stops US Operations Due to Federal Ban Impacting 170M Users

TikTok has been officially taken offline in the United States, following years of discussions and legal challenges. The federal ban came after Congress approved a law that requires TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations. As a result, the app is no longer available to its 170 million users in America.

Users Encounter Access Issues

When users try to access TikTok, they see a message stating: “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S., which means the app is currently inaccessible.” This action has drawn criticism from advocates for free speech, who claim that prohibiting a platform as significant as TikTok goes against the principles of democracy. Pen America called the Supreme Court’s choice to uphold the law a concerning case of government overreach. At the same time, worries about potential data access by the Chinese government continue to be a key reason lawmakers support the ban.

Possible Solutions Ahead

The future of TikTok now rests with President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to take office on January 20. Trump has shown openness to negotiations and hinted at a possible 90-day extension that could lead to other solutions. One such solution might be the return of Project Texas, a $2 billion initiative aimed at protecting U.S. user data under the management of American firms like Oracle.

On the other hand, new proposals are emerging. The start-up Perplexity AI has put forth a plan for a $50 billion merger with TikTok’s U.S. operations, while former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt and others have shown interest as well. However, legal experts warn that federal laws restrict presidential authority, leaving TikTok’s destiny unclear.

Impact on Social Media Landscape

As competitors such as Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts attempt to take advantage of TikTok’s absence, the shutdown of the app in the U.S. could lead to a major change in the social media scene. The focus now shifts to the Trump administration to see if TikTok can make a comeback or if it will face a permanent ban.

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Tags: ByteDance, Donald Trump, TikTok
January 17, 2025

Insta360 Launches Flow 2 Pro Gimbal to Compete with DJI Osmo Mobile 7

Insta360 has outpaced DJI by launching a new camera gimbal designed for today’s smartphones. While DJI seemed to be developing the Osmo Mobile 7 for a while, Insta360 managed to introduce the Flow 2 Pro in less than six months after the global release of the Flow Pro.

Gimbal Details

Interestingly, the Flow 2 Pro stands as the only new gimbal from Insta360, despite earlier leaks suggesting otherwise. It seems that Argos UK mistakenly called the product Flow 2, or perhaps Insta360 changed the name during its development phase.

Tracking Technology

The Flow 2 Pro features support for Apple DockKit, allowing for native subject tracking not just in the default iOS Camera app, but also in a multitude of third-party applications. Moreover, it includes Insta360’s newest Deep Track 4.0 technology along with AI-enhanced capabilities such as 360° Infinite Pan Tracking and the ability to track multiple people in real-time.

Battery and Pricing

According to reports, the Flow 2 Pro can operate for up to ten hours on its 1,100 mAh battery, which requires around two hours for a full charge. The battery, along with the 210 mm built-in selfie stick and a 94 x 204 mm tripod, contributes to a total weight of 357 g. The Flow 2 Pro is now available worldwide in two colors, directly from Insta360 and through retailers like Amazon, starting at a price of $159.99 for the Standard Bundle. Alternatively, buyers can choose the Creator or Vlog Bundle options which come with extra accessories.

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Tags: DJI, Insta360 Flow 2 Pro, smartphone gimbal
January 16, 2025

Obsbot Tiny SE Webcam: Advanced Tracking and Gesture Control

Obsbot has returned with an exciting new external webcam that boasts a range of appealing tracking features. The Obsbot Tiny SE is now available on Obsbot’s official Amazon US store for a reasonable price of $99.

Resolution Limitations

While the webcam offers some great features, those who prioritize high-resolution might find it lacking, as the Obsbot Tiny SE only supports a maximum resolution of 1080p. In a time when 4K webcams are becoming more common, this might be a letdown for some users. Nevertheless, the Tiny SE does allow for impressive frame rates, offering up to 100 FPS at 1080p and 120 FPS at 720p. It comes equipped with a 1/2.8″ CMOS sensor that supports 12-bit color, which should provide satisfactory recording quality.

Software Superiority

What sets the Obsbot Tiny SE apart is not just its hardware but the software that powers it. This AI-driven webcam includes facial recognition and tracking features, enhanced by dynamic framing that utilizes a 4x digital zoom. Users can also physically adjust the webcam’s position using an optional remote. Additionally, it recognizes hand gestures, allowing users to control the camera’s angle without needing to touch the system, proving beneficial for tutorial or presentation scenarios.

In conclusion, the Obsbot Tiny SE has a lot to offer on paper, but its actual performance and video quality remain to be seen through detailed hands-on reviews.

Tags: Webcam
January 16, 2025

Leica SL3-S: New Full-Frame Mirrorless with 6K Video & 96MP Photos

Leica has just unveiled its new SL3-S mirrorless camera, marking a significant upgrade to the SL-System series and acting as the successor to the SL2-S. At the heart of the SL3-S is a 24.6MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor paired with the Maestro IV processor. Together, they offer an ISO range from 50 to 200,000 and enable multi-shot modes for creating 48MP or 96MP images.

Enhanced Stability and Autofocus

This camera comes with in-body image stabilization that provides five stops of compensation, which is great for handheld shooting. The autofocus system is quite impressive, boasting a hybrid 779-point setup that combines phase detection, depth map object detection, and contrast detection. With full autofocus support, the SL3-S can shoot continuously at up to 30 frames per second, making it the fastest system camera Leica has ever produced, according to the company.

Outstanding Video Capabilities

The SL3-S is designed for high-quality video recording. It offers Open Gate 6K recording with a 3:2 aspect ratio and 5.9K RAW output at 30fps when using external recorders. For those who want a similar sensor with Open Gate 6K recording without spending too much, the Panasonic S5 II is currently available for $1,597 on Amazon. Internally, the Leica captures ProRes 4:2:2 HQ in 5.8K at 30fps or C4K at 60fps without any time limits. Furthermore, it supports external SSD recording through its USB-C port, making it quite convenient for longer recording sessions. A dedicated timecode interface is also available for precise synchronization in professional workflows. The Maestro IV processor is designed to manage the heavy data requirements while ensuring high dynamic range and color accuracy.

Connectivity and Compatibility

In terms of connectivity, the SL3-S features dual card slots for CFexpress Type B and UHS-II SD cards, a full-size HDMI 2.1 output, and USB-C for various functions like data transfer, tethering, and power delivery. Wireless connectivity options include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with MIMO technology, which provide stable and fast connections to the Leica Fotos app.

One notable feature that makes its debut with the SL3-S is the incorporation of Content Credentials technology. This feature aligns with the Content Authenticity Initiative by embedding secure metadata in recorded media, detailing creation information and editing history to confirm image authenticity. Users can validate these credentials using tools like verify.contentauthenticity.org.

Design and Build Quality

The SL3-S maintains the well-known design of the SL3, as seen in earlier leaks, featuring a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen and a 5.76M-dot EyeRes EVF with a 120fps refresh rate. Its body is made from robust milled aluminum and magnesium, boasting an IP54 rating for dust and moisture resistance. The SL3-S is fully compatible with the L-Mount ecosystem, allowing users to utilize a broad range of lenses from Leica, Panasonic, and Sigma. For Leica M lenses, an optional adapter is available to ensure compatibility.

The SL3-S can be preordered worldwide at a suggested retail price of €5,190, which includes VAT. B&H Photo Video has the camera listed for $5,295. The launch of this camera comes as Leica celebrates its centenary, marking 100 years since the introduction of the original Leica I.

Tags: Leica SL3-S, mirrorless camera
January 16, 2025

Obsbot Launches Tiny SE and Meet SE AI Webcams with 1080p 100fps

Obsbot has introduced two new webcams powered by AI, the Tiny SE and the Meet SE, designed for gamers, remote workers, and content creators, boasting top-notch video quality and cool features. Let’s dive into the important specifications.

Obsbot Tiny SE Overview

The Tiny SE is a small yet powerful AI webcam that comes with a 2-axis gimbal for smooth panning, tilting, and zooming, providing accurate tracking. It can handle high frame rates, featuring 1080P at 100fps and 720P at 120fps, which guarantees clear visuals for live streaming, presentations, and online meetings.

This camera is equipped with a 1/2.8-inch stacked CMOS sensor that has a pixel size of 2.9μm and an f/1.8 lens, which allows for great image quality even in dim lighting. With dual native ISO and HDR technology, it enhances video clarity and offers true-to-life colors, making it perfect for professional settings.

Moreover, it comes with smart AI tracking modes, such as body part, hand, and zone tracking, all driven by a deep learning neural network for smooth functioning. Gesture controls enable hands-free operations, and preset PTZ positions help creators and professionals streamline their workflows.

Obsbot Meet SE Details

The Meet SE is lightweight, weighing in at only 33.2 grams, making it easy to carry while still delivering advanced performance. It offers smooth video capabilities with resolutions of 1080P at 100fps and 720P at 150fps. Setting it up is a breeze, making it perfect for streaming, gaming, and remote work.

This webcam also has a 1/2.8-inch stacked CMOS sensor and Staggered HDR technology to provide vivid visuals even in tough lighting situations. The AI Auto Framing feature automatically centers subjects during video calls and meetings. It includes gesture controls for hassle-free use and works well with platforms like Zoom, Twitch, and OBS, ensuring a seamless workflow.

Additionally, it connects to the Obsbot Center ecosystem and includes features like Beauty Mode, Bokeh, and Auto Focus to improve the overall experience for users. Color options include Aurora Green, Space Grey, and Cloud White.

Pricing and Release Information

The Obsbot Tiny SE and Meet SE are priced at $99 and $69 respectively, and they will be available from January 15, 2025, on Obsbot’s website and Amazon.
January 16, 2025

DJI Update Removes Geofencing for US Drone Users

Geofencing has been an important part of DJI drones for a long time, helping to keep both the company and drone pilots safe from mistakenly flying into areas known as no-fly zones. DJI’s GEO system has typically stopped drone users from flying in restricted FAA airspace, which includes places like nearby airports, military zones, or significant government buildings such as the White House.

Changes to the GEO System

In an interesting development, DJI has revealed that starting January 13, 2025, the automatic geofencing feature will be taken away. Instead, they will introduce a new system that offers relevant warnings to drone pilots. With this upcoming software update for both DJI drones and its companion apps, DJI Fly and DJI Pilot, the previously restricted areas will now be referred to as Enhanced Warning Zones. Drone operators will see a warning on their screens when they are close to or within these restricted spaces, leaving it up to them to follow the guidance.

Reaction to the Update

While one might easily think this change is due to DJI possibly facing a US ban next year, it’s worth noting that a similar update happened in the EU and UK last year. The driving force behind this shift seems to be that aviation and legal bodies have begun implementing Remote ID systems. These systems aim to identify drones that are operating unlawfully in restricted airspace and are meant to enforce the existing rules.

Noteworthy DJI Product

If you’re looking for a lightweight option, consider the 135 g DJI Neo, which is currently priced at $199 on Amazon. This model weighs under 250 g, meaning you can fly it without needing a license.

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Tags: DJI