Hohem’s newest pro-grade gimbal designed to accommodate everything from mirrorless cameras to smartphones is now outfitted with a screen-clad remote for controlling advanced AI tracking. Announced during CES 2026, the Hohem iSteady MT3 is the accessory-maker’s newest pro-grade gimbal.

The iSteady MT3 will come in a standard and a Pro variant, with pre-orders beginning on January 20 in the US only. Hohem hasn’t yet shared international availability or pricing.

The iSteady MT3 has a handful of updates compared to the previous MT2, starting with the remote. While the earlier model was also compatible with remotes, the MT3 remote has a built-in screen for using the Live Feed to control the gimbal’s AI tracking capabilities. The touchscreen offers quick access to settings, including follow modes and speeds, from up to 10m or 32.8 feet away.

That remote also has a joystick and a Bluetooth-enabled camera shutter release. A toggle on the remote also supports remotely adjusting the zoom on supported PZ or power zoom lenses.

The gimbal uses a built-in 2MP camera to power AI-based object tracking. The company says the AI can track humans, pets, vehicles, and “any subject”. The AI tracking can be controlled from the touchscreen, the gimbal’s trigger-like button, or using gesture controls for human tracking.

The Hohem iSteady MT3 has a handful of other enhancements compared to the earlier MT2. The previous version had a 2.6lb capacity (1200g), where the MT3 supports up to 3.1 lbs (1.4kg), and the MT3 Pro up to 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg). Battery life also jumps from 17 hours to 20 hours.

The gimbal also updates with faster swaps from horizontal to vertical shooting positions. Hoehm says the new model also has a 40 percent increase in torque.

Like earlier models, the MT3 supports mirrorless cameras, compact cameras, smartphones, and action cameras. The accessories needed to adapt to different types of cameras are all included in the box, along with a quick-release plate kit.

The Pro Kit will also support a Spot Mini Motor accessory, which allows the gimbal to control either focus or zoom using the dial on the side of the gimbal handle. Six screw holes also allow for adapting and modifying the gimbal with a wide range of accessories, including twist handles, lights, and monopods.

The base model starts at $329, with the Pro at $449. The Pro Kit with the Spot Mini Motor support retails for $549. Pre-orders at B&H are expected to begin on January 20; international pricing and availability are not yet available.

You might worry that seeing birds from all angles is something of an Alfred Hitchcock experience, but the arrival of the world’s first 360° bird feeder camera at CES 2026 is just a way of making sure you don't miss anything, even with fast-moving hummingbirds.

By placing a 360-degree camera – which has a spherical view of the world around it – above a table-style bird feeder this is different from every preceding bird feeder camera which don't have an all-round view. This cam can can record at 6K at 30fps or 2K 120FPS (high frame rate for slow motion).

The boasted 6K resolution is similar to some of the cheaper cameras on my best 360-degree camera guide. This figure (as on other 360-degree cameras) represents the combined visual information from the two back-to-back lenses which form the whole image, but having the intelligence to combine these images is just the start for Birdfy. The Insta360 or GoPro can do spherical world photography, but this is all about the birds.

In terms of design, the new bird feeder table places its unique camera above the centre of a round (and slightly pitched) table area. The whole product is built from high-strength nylon reinforced with glass fiber.

Beneath the camera, an air pump can push food up from the 1.5 liter / 51oz tank at the command of the Birdfy app, so that, on demand, it comes up the center (directly beneath the camera) then falls to around the rim of the table. This, of course, keeps the visiting birds in just the right distance from the camera for a great shot.

Birdfy has also announced the new Hum Bloom, which can capture 4K at 20fps or 1MP at 120fps (lower resolution but for slow motion bursts). The image sensor is 8-megapixel with a 1/2.3-inch image sensor.

Like its sibling, it offers OrniSense – the new LLM-powered birdwatching AI which can help birdwatchers by using local context to identify species and explain its reasoning to the user. It will, as the beta features roll out, also be able to provide a log of events its has seen during the day, even spotting the difference between aggressive bird behaviours (you can ask for an archive of fights, for example) and mere dining.

Both of these new devices are on show to visitors to CES now.

Birdbuddy has shown the result of its latest crowdfunding campaign at CES – a new generation of smart bird feeders, including the BirdBuddy 2 Mini which can identify birdsong.

The Birdbuddy 2 Mini brings all the features of the Birdbuddy 2 and the device targets accessibility and intuitivity. The larger device still hasn't shipped, but was first shown in mid-2025, and will be the company's new flagship feeder.

Both the 2 and the 2 Mini will boast the same AI features, which include the ability to listen for birdsong and identify birds. Previous BirdBuddy cameras could only identify birds using their cameras, so the audio cues are a new feature.

The built-in camera offers 2K video, and can export in horizontal or vertical format so it's ready for social media.

Franci Zidar, CEO and Co-Founder of Birdbuddy is quoted as saying, "With Birdbuddy 2 and Birdbuddy 2 Mini, we've reimagined our smart bird feeder from the ground up... while continuing to build an ecosystem that lets people connect more deeply with wildlife in their everyday lives."

The real difference between the two BirdBuddy 2 devices are twofold. Not the camera specs, but the design and the release date.

The smaller 2 Mini has a smaller seed capacity, but it can be positioned in smaller places. There is the option to attach extra features, like a solar panel where as or a perch extender. In the Birdbuddy 2 non-mini version, solar panels are built into the design – the only means of continuous power for the Mini is the extension.

The Birdbuddy 2 is priced at $189, while the 2 Mini will cost $129, and pre-orders will begin sometime in mid-2026. The smaller bird feeder will not ship until late 2026.

BirdBuddy also have its 'Wonder Blocks' and 'Petal' cameras on display. Both were first shown at CES 2025, and raised $2.5 million on Kickstarter.

See our review of the original BirdBuddy Smart Bird Feeder Camera

Wireless mics drastically improve audio for video and content creation – but they don’t always hide well. But SmallRig’s latest plug-and-play wireless mic has just an 8.8mm – or .35 inch – logo-free clip. And, the new mic even has eight different color sleeves to better blend with different outfits.

The SmallRig S70 is a budget-friendly, beginner-friendly wireless mic. The mic looks poised to compete with other similar wireless mics designed to be discrete and simple, like the similarly compact Hollyland Lark M2S and the DJI Mic Mini.

The mic mixes a simple plug-and-play design designed for audio newbies with a handful of fine-tuning features. The mic comes with nine EQ presets –tuned by four-time Grammy winner Luca Bignardi – that allow new users to quickly adjust the settings based on the scenario. For example, those presets include settings for male and female speakers, singing, guitars, and recording environmental sound effects.

Along with those presets, the mic has three recording modes with mono, stereo, and a safety track (which records a lower volume backup when connected to a camera).

SmallRig says the S70 is designed to blend in. The clip portion of the mic that’s visible outside of clothing has no logo and is just 8.8mm or .35 inches wide. SmallRig will also offer eight different color covers for that clip so users can help the black mic better blend with different colors of clothing.

While the S70 is targeted towards beginners and content creators on a budget, the S70’s spec sheet includes 48kHz 24-bit audio, a 300m or 984 foot range, and eight hours of continuous recording without recharging. Settings on the mic can be adjusted inside the SmallGoGO App as well as some settings available from the receiver.

The S70 bundles two wireless mics along with two receivers – one USB-C for phones and one for cameras – along with a charging case and windscreen. The charging case can hold up to 40 hours of use time for recharging on the go. The camera receiver has a five-level adjustable gain, while the phone receiver has a three-level gain.

SmallRig unveiled the S70 during CES – the accessory brand’s first time attending the large Las Vegas tech show.

The SmallRig S70 is expected to start shipping in the US on January 12 and in other regions on January 15. The wireless mic kit retails for $89.99 / £81.90 / AU$141.90.

You may also like

Browse the best lavalier mics or the best mics for vlogging and filmmaking.

GoPros are meant to go where most cameras can’t – and now laptop giant Asus is taking inspiration from the popular action camera. The Asus ProArt PX13 GoPro Edition, launched during CES 2026, is a laptop with military grade durability, a 360-degree hinge touchscreen, and a dedicated GoPro shortcut key.

Originally teased in December, the special edition laptop is a collaboration between Asus and GoPro. The GoPro Edition shares several specs with the new standard edition ProArt PX13, including a touchscreen with a 360-degree hinge so the laptop can also be used like a tablet, or the screen can be turned around for sharing video previews on site. Both laptops also share specs like an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, up to 128 GB of memory, a 1TB SSD hard drive, and what the company calls “military-grade durability.”

But the GoPro Edition carries a Black Metal finish with ridges and CNC engravings inspired by the action cam. It comes with a matching laptop sleeve with a bungee for attaching accessories. The box it comes in is designed for collectors and uses a custom foam insert so that it can be repurposed to also hold GoPro gear.

The GoPro collaboration goes beyond the design, however. The ProArt PX13, including the non-GoPro Edition, has a microSD card port, so no adapters are necessary to plug in a GoPro’s memory card. The laptop supports GoPro Cloud for syncing footage without touching the memory card. A GoPro shortcut on the keyboard brings up the action camera giant’s Player software. Asus’ StoryCube software, meanwhile, helps organize and tag footage using AI – including support for 360 footage.

Both the GoPro Edition and standard version of the laptop have Asus Dialpad, although the GoPro Edition uses cyan blue in keeping with the color of the keyboard’s backlighting. Designed for creators, the laptop also supports using a stylus on the 3K, 13-inch OLED screen.

The laptop is tested to the military-grade MIL-STD-810 H standards – which means it’s designed for extreme temperatures, shock, vibration, dust, and sand. That list doesn’t include GoPro-level waterproofing, sadly, but extends the laptop’s use to outdoor, dry conditions. The laptop weighs 1.39 kg / 3 lbs and has a 15.8mm / .62 inch profile.

Do photographers, videographers, and content creators need a laptop that matches their camera? Well, no, probably not, but the set of features speaks to an increasingly mobile, flexible workstation.

Asus has not yet shared the pricing or availability for the GoPro Edition.

You may also like

Browse the best laptops for photo editing or the best action cameras.

While the show has been pretty disappointing as far as most camera tech goes, CES 2025 saw Birdfy showcase some of its cool new bird feeder cameras – including a bird bath camera that I'm probably going to add to my back yard, and a new Pro product with 4K 30p / FullHD 120p capture.

Bird Feeder cameras have rocketed in popularity in the past couple of years. Not only are they a fun way to observe the wildlife in your yard, the AI features help identify the visitors to your home – and the ability to share footage is making them a bit of a hit on social media, too.

Here are the cool new cameras that Birdfy has been showing off in Las Vegas this week…

Birdfy Hum Feeder Pro

The biggest news is the unveiling of the Birdfy Hum Feeder Pro – the world’s first smart hummingbird feeder with 4K 30p / FullHD 120p video recording, set to launch in March.

I'm not sure which is more exciting – the fact that the 8MP camera can capture footage in 4K clarity, or that you can watch hummingbirds in 120p slow-motion. The product also features a patented "pendant-style feeding port" that "is designed to enhance the hummingbird-watching experience."

Pre-registration for the Hum Feeder Pro is open now.

Birdfy Bath Pro

This is the one I've been waiting for! The Birdfy Bath Pro, which ships in March, comes as either a standalone bath or a freestanding version with a stand. It packs a dual-lens main camera, pairing a wide-angle lens with an automated tracking lens, loaded with smart features.

The AI bird data identifies your visitors, and not only do you get notifications when a bird lands but – with a subscription or one-off purchase – you can also get daily and monthly reports of who has been taking a bath.

Clips are stored in the cloud, so you can download your favorites at your convenience, and you can share access with more than 20 accounts – ideal for friends and families who love sharing in the bird love.

Birdfy Feeder Metal

Coming this month is the first metal feeder in the company's lineup, the Birdfy Feeder Metal, offering extreme durability with its rust-proofing and chew-proofing. As you can see from the image above, it also has a more elegant aesthetic that better blends with metal yard furniture and a wider variety of yards and gardens.

It boasts an extendable perch, which adjusts to welcome larger bird species, a magnetic flip-top lid, for easy refilling, and an integrated solar panel for clean, uninterrupted energy.

Birdfy Hum Feeder

Also shipping this month is a smaller and more affordable version of the Hum Feeder Duo, the Birdfy Hum Feeder. Better suited for newcomers or those with smaller yards, it features a 14 fl oz nectar capacity (with built-in ant moat to keep pests away) and the signature side-swivel feeding ports.

The AI-powered, 2MP, FullHD, IP66-certified camera can identify over 150 hummingbird species, with real-time "Bird's here" notifications and live-streaming functionality.

Birdfy Feeder 2 Duo

The perfect solution to those times when your bird visitor is sitting at exactly the wrong angle or out of view, the Birdfy Feeder 2 Duo (shipping at the end of the month) gives you two dual-lens cameras – and picked up a CES Innovation Award.

One is placed in the base of the feeder, in the standard position, with a second mounted to the surrounding perch, giving you two angles of your feathered visitors. Each camera has a portrait camera for close-ups as well as a wide-angle view to take in the whole scene.

This kit also comes with a solar panel for clean, continuous energy, and a lifetime subscription to the AI Bird Recognition Service that can identify over 6,000 bird species.

For more information on the full range, visit the Birdfy website.

You might also like…

Take a look at the best bird feeder cameras, as well as my colleague Lauren's Birdfy Feeder 1 review.

Audio-visual equipment maker Emeet has announced a range of twin-lens AI webcams at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The new products include the Emeet Piko series, which the company is billing as the world's first dual-camera 4K AI mini webcams, and the Emeet Pixy, an AI-powered dual-camera 4K PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) webcam. Perhaps the new products could join the ranks of the best 4K webcams.

The Emeet Piko and Piko+ are "designed specifically for Generation Z content creators who demand nothing less than excellence", according to Emeet. Unlike traditional, single-lens models, Piko boasts dual cameras that enhance overall image quality, as well as focus speed and accuracy.

The Emeet Pixy is also an AI-powered dual-camera 4K webcam, but adds pan, tilt and zoom functionality, and offers immersive UHD 4K images and studio-standard sound. Emeet promises that more features of the Pixy will be revealed later in the year.

Emeet also has some of its other previously announced products on display at the show. Its AirFlow open-ear headphones have a detachable microphone and ensure exceptional call quality, thanks to a top-of-the-class noise-cancelling algorithm. The StreamCam One is a wireless live-streaming multicam that enables up to three devices to be wirelessly connected simultaneously and streamed to up to four live platforms.

If you're visiting CES, which runs until January 10, pop along and meet Emeet at Booth #LVCC, South Hall 1 30413.

CES 2025, one of the world's largest tech events, is officially underway in Las Vegas, bringing together global innovators to unveil their latest advancements. Among these companies is Nikon, which not only won an award for its new Nikon Z6 III mirrorless camera but also revealed groundbreaking technology set to support NASA's ambitious Artemis lunar mission.

In a significant milestone, Nikon announced its partnership with NASA in March 2024, to supply cutting-edge imaging equipment for the upcoming Artemis mission – a major step in humanity's return to the Moon. With the first crewed lunar landing scheduled for mid-2027, Nikon is developing the Handheld Universal Lunar Camera (HULC), a specialized camera designed to capture high-resolution images of the mission both en route and on the Moon’s surface.

A key component of this collaboration will be the adapted Nikon Z9, a mirrorless camera that has undergone significant modifications to withstand the harsh conditions of space. The Z9 will be used during the Artemis III mission – the third phase of NASA’s Artemis program – where astronauts will conduct extravehicular activities (EVAs) on the lunar surface. Nikon highlighted these modifications at CES 2025, showcasing how the camera has been optimized for space missions.

One of the features on display is a custom-built insulating blanket, developed with input from NASA engineers, designed to protect the Nikon Z9 from extreme lunar temperatures, cosmic radiation, and abrasive lunar dust. The camera's resilience to these challenges will be critical for capturing high-quality images.

Nikon’s Z9 and Z lenses have also been re-engineered for use during EVAs, where astronauts will conduct moonwalks and spacewalks. To address the challenge of operating a camera while wearing bulky space gloves, NASA is developing a custom grip for the Z9, allowing astronauts to easily operate the shutter, review images, and switch between stills and video modes. The grip will connect to the camera via a 10-pin terminal cable and will be paired with special custom firmware to ensure seamless operation in zero-gravity conditions.

In addition to its lunar-focused innovations, Nikon is also showcasing a range of other cutting-edge technologies at CES 2025, including its advanced Robot Vision System, Riblet Processing technology, In-Vehicle Camera Systems, and, of course, its state-of-the-art mirrorless cameras.

You might also like

Check out our guide to the best Nikon cameras and the best Nikon lenses.

Two of Amazon-owned Ring’s most popular outdoor security cameras will get a huge update tomorrow, January 08.

Ring once dominated the home security market, but has been eclipsed in recent years by various competitors as well as facing concerns about privacy breaches.

In an attempt to stay relevant, Ring announced at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada, that the Ring Floodlight Cam Pro and the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro, will be boosted up to 2K video resolution at no extra cost to the owner, available on the Ring app.

This is a long-awaited and important step for Ring as other companies, such as Arlo and Eufy, have been shooting at 2K or even 4K for a few years now.

A spokesperson for Ring said:

"While Ring's existing HD Video delivers crisp resolution, we are always working to enhance the Ring experience for both new and existing customers, and 2K will deliver even greater sharpness and texture quality for enhanced detail and clarity. Ring Vision combines software, hardware, and Ring's internal expertise to ensure balanced color, contrast, and motion smoothing."

Alongside the camera update comes the Vehicle Detection feature, which will notify customers of moving vehicles in the camera's field of view. However, this new feature will be included as part of Ring’s Smart Alerts platform – which is only available to those with a Ring Home subscription plan.

The Vehicle Detection feature is available on several Ring products, including the Floodlight Cam Wired Pro, Spotlight Cam Pro, Spotlight Cam Plus, Floodlight Cam Wired Plus, Pan-Tilt Indoor Camera, Indoor Camera 2nd Gen, Battery Video Doorbell, Battery Video Doorbell Plus, Battery Video Doorbell Pro, Video Doorbell Wired, and Wired Doorbell Pro.

Smart Home Camera Statistics states that the home security market is rapidly growing, reporting that around 98.86 million homes worldwide installed security cameras in 2023, and estimating that by 2026 that number will have increased to 163.73 million.

Despite this, issues of security remain an ongoing concern, as a recent study suggested that outdoor security cameras are “among the top collectors of user data,” harvesting 50% more than other smart home device apps.

You might also like…

Interested in securing your home? Why not take a look at our guides to the best indoor security cameras, the best 360-degree outdoor security cameras, or why not look at our guides to the best fake security cameras.

Every time I experience an unusual backyard visitor – like the time I watched a bald eagle pick a squirrel off my bird feeder – I wonder just how much I miss when I’m not outside or near a window. The Wonder Petal, a flower-shaped backyard camera by the creator of the Bird Buddy, may be just what my garden needs to avoid missing unusual backyard visitors.

Teased at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, the Petal is an upcoming outdoor camera that works with Bird Buddy’s AI to help recognize the creatures visiting the area. TechRadar's Lance Ulanoff says the camera can look a bit like a large orange flower. The Petal has a 1/1.9-inch camera sensor that shoots 12MP still photos as well as 4K video. The camera then sends the footage to the Wonder app to identify birds and even bugs.

The flower-inspired camera sits on a bendable stem. That stem can be stuck in the ground or wrapped around a tree branch. The camera can also be paired with an add-on solar panel to help extend the little camera’s battery life.

Like the Bird Buddy bird feeder camera, the Petal will send the images to an app, where it can send real-time alerts or a daily digest of which creatures visited the backyard. The company also says that optional lens attachments will adjust the camera’s view for close-up or wide angle uses.

During CES, the company also announced Wonder Blocks, a modular system designed for bug watching, including a bug hotel and seed tray. Of course, the Petal camera can be used to monitor which bugs visit the modular system.

The Wonder Petal isn’t for sale just yet, but the company expects it to ship sometime this spring, with a list price of around $99, which roughly converts to £79 / AU$158.

You may also like

For more backyard-wildlife inspiration, read our recommendations for the best bird feeder cameras or the best trail cameras.

ASUS has announced a new 27-inch OLED monitor with screen specs that should impress any imaging enthusiast. The ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM is marketed as a gaming display, but its premium OLED screen tech makes it equally suitable for photo or video editing. 

The new monitor is capable of 99% coverage of the demanding DCI-P3 color space, while offering color accuracy to Delta-E <2. The screen is also DisplayHDR 400, HDR10 and Dolby Vision certified, which along with a 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio and OLED's ability to display true black makes it ideal for HDR content. ASUS is also promising uniform screen brightness, and being a gamer-centric monitor, there's a super-fast 0.03ms response time and FreeSync/G-SYNC compatibility.

Read more:
The best monitors for photo editing
The best video editing monitors

But what makes the ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM particularly special is its 4K (3840 x 2160) screen resolution. This is nothing unusual for a 27" LCD monitor, but we reckon the PG27UCDM is only the second-ever 27" OLED display to be launched with a 4K resolution (the ASUS ProArt Display OLED PA27DCE-K being the first). As it stands, if you want a 27" OLED monitor, the vast majority are still QHD (2560 x 1440).

OLED displays have been common on high-end laptops for several years, and have since trickled down to even entry-level machines. Standalone OLED monitors are less common however, with traditional LCD monitors still being massively more commonplace, but OLED displays are slowly gaining market share. And that's a good thing for photo and video editing, as OLED is the gold standard for monitor image quality, offering unparallel contrast, a huge color gamut, stunning vibrancy, and usually excellent color accuracy.

The ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27UCDM will be available for pre-order in the US from January 21st. Until then, the ASUS ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM (non-4K) is available to buy now, priced at $749/£699

Samsung has announced the Frame TV Pro: a new top-of-the-line model of its range of art TVs. When you're not watching your favorite TV programs, an art TV acts as an oversized picture frame, and can display imagery of artworks more usually found hanging in a gallery, or your own photographs, making it a viable alternative to the best digital photo frames.

Designed to be wall-mounted, the Frame TV Pro has a smart bezel more reminiscent of an artwork frame than an item of consumer electronics, and an anti-glare matte screen to make viewing images (or TV) more pleasurable.

The Frame TV Pro has two major upgrades over the existing Frame TV range. First off, the new model is equipped with Samsung's Neo QLED display, based on mini LED tech, for greater peak brightness and better contrast, thus showing off artwork at its very best.

Secondly, content is streamed to the TV wirelessly via the companion Wireless One Connect box. Essentially, you connect any streaming devices, set-top boxes, gaming consoles, antenna, and the like, to the Wireless One Connect, which can be positioned anywhere in the room. Everything is streamed wirelessly and latency-free to the display, meaning the box can be tucked away out of sight, with no unsightly cables running to the back of the TV itself and thereby spoiling the aesthetic (aside from the power outlet, which would be ideally situated behind the screen).

While you can use the device to display your own photographs, Samsung also offers a subscription-based Art Store, which gives access to more than 3,000 artworks for $4.99/£3.99/AU$5.99 monthly or $49.99/£39.99/AU$59.99 annually. This service has now been expanded to work on a range of other Samsung TVs, not just the Frame TV range.

When you're not admiring your photos or watching the box, the Frame TV Pro is also ideal for gaming, with a refresh rate of 144Hz. A smart gaming interface enables you to adjust such things as the ratio, frame rate, and other customizations.

The Frame TV Pro was unveiled at the at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas and will be available in 65-, 75- and 85-inch screen sizes, so is intended as a statement piece of tech for large living rooms. If you prefer a smaller screen, you'll have to settle for the standard Frame TV, which comes in 43-, 50 and 55-inch sizes and doesn't offer the mini-LED display (but does still have Wireless One Connect functionality). Pricing is yet to be announced.

Belkin has announced a power bank with a difference: the Stage PowerGrip doubles as a DSLR-style ergonomic grip, complete with a shutter button to make taking photos on your phone a more natural experience. It certainly is an unusual design for a power bank, but could well join the ranks of the best iPhone camera grips.

The 'battery bump' provides a comfortable grip, as found on traditional DSLRs and interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras, while housing a 10,000mAh battery to keep your phone topped up. MagSafe-compatible 7.5W wireless charging provides power to your phone, and there are also USB-C ports for powering up any other devices while out and about. There's a retractable USB-C cord for recharging the device, so you don't have to worry about forgetting to bring the cable.

The shutter release button atop the bump connects to the phone via Bluetooth to make shooting with the iOS camera app easier and promises to offer a much more natural photo-taking experience than using the on-screen control or the fiddly volume buttons.

Announced at CES 2025, the device is available in various colorways to match popular iPhone color options, namely powder blue, sandbox, fresh yellow, pepper and lavender. An LED display shows how much battery charge is left in percentage terms. The Stage PowerGrip can also act as a phone stand. It is due to go on sale in May 2025, and pricing details are yet to be announced.

"The most powerful tech event in the world", CES 2025, is taking place this week in Las Vegas, Nevada, and from January 07-10. But while it's a haven for the latest tech in other sectors, there has so far been little to entice camera users.

Admittedly, CES isn't geared towards photography and videography in specific. Although, with the biggest players in imaging taking part at the show – Sony, Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, Fujifilm, Insta360 and Adobe to name a few – I would have liked to see a little more.

At last year's show, Panasonic launched the "world's smallest" macro lens, and in 2019 Sharp unveiled the first ever 8K consumer camera (which sadly never made it to market), so cool stuff has been revealed in the past – but right now, it seems that CES 2025 isn't one to watch for camera gear.

Here's a quick rundown of interesting imaging stuff so far – along with things we might from some of the big brands in imaging…

CES 2025 announcements

Nikon

Nikon has some pretty cool things on display this year. The one most obviously of interest to DCW readers will be the updates to the company's lunar camera – the modified Nikon Z9 being supplied to NASA for the upcoming Artemis III mission, which Nikon has dubbed "Mirrorless goes to the Moon" for its CES presentation.

The Nikon Z50 II is being used to offer showgoers a free portrait / headshot / profile pic taken by a professional photographer, and the nifty-looking Nikon dual lens in-car camera system is also on show – which captures wide and telephoto video simultaneously and has been co-designed with Mitsubishi.

Then there's the Robot Vision System / Intelligent Actuator Unit, which features Nikon's 2D / 3D cameras mounted to a robot's fingers for faster and more flexible learning. The intriguing-sounding CES showcase is called "The Restaurant of the Future".

The second is Studio Extreme, a demonstration of the virtual production technology by Disguise – a company with whom Nikon has partnered, and which employs technology from Nikon-owned Red (Komodo X) and Mark Roberts Motion Control (StudioBot LT).

Finally, the company won a CES Innovation Award for the Nikon Z6 III – the only other camera to receive one being the GoPro Hero13 Black.

Sony

ABOVE: Watch the Sony press conference

Despite all the camera rumors about new bodies like the Sony A7 V, A7S IV and FX3 II, as I expected Sony instead focused on mainstream entertainment stuff like turning its PlayStation franchises into movies and anime. Oh, and it launched a car (the Afeela 1, an EV with a PlayStation 5 in it).

The only real nod to camera tech was the Xyn spatial capture stuff, which cited "using images captured by a mirrorless camera" to "convert real objects and spaces into high-quality 3D CG assets".

And, in a broader sense (and an excuse to put NFL logos in its presentation), the use of Sony's Hawkeye tech to power the recent Simpsons Funday Football virtual NFL altcast (following 2023's Toy Story Funday Football, which remains "the biggest live event to date on Disney Plus").

It was nice seeing Bob Martin's photography at the start of the presentation, at least!

Birdfy bird feeder cameras

Birdfy unveiled a slate of new products, led by the Hum Feeder Pro (above) – the world’s first smart hummingbird feeder with 4K 30p / FullHD 120p video recording, set to launch in March.

My favorite is the Birdfy Bath Pro, which comes with or without a station to free stand in your garden. There was also the Bird Feeder Metal, with an upmarket and super-robust metal finish that's rust-and chew-proof.

The Birdfy Hum Feeder is a smaller and more affordable version of the Hum Feeder Duo, while the Birdfy Feeder 2 Duo packs a pair of dual-lens cameras for portrait and wide-angle shots from primary and secondary perspectives.

Panasonic

ABOVE: Watch the Panasonic press conference

While Panasonic launched the Lumix S 100mm f/2.8 Macro at last year's show, this year there wasn't much about cameras besides a photo booth. The company was more interested in its AI initiatives, carbon neutrality and helping support a circular economy.

Leave it to camera rumors, then, to do a bit of guerrilla PR in revealing that the Panasonic Lumix S1R II is on the way soon.

What to expect at CES 2025

Canon

Canon's offerings at CES tend to be a little more… esoteric. Have a click through the YouTube playlist above to see what last year's booth looked like.

While there was a camera area, it was more like a museum than a showroom, and the company was focused more on things like AMLOS (its hybrid virtual meeting system), Free Viewpoint System (enabling you to take a virtual camera anywhere on a sports court or field), Kokomo (a VR tech that even I don't properly understand) and mixed reality applications.

So what are we likely to see this year? Well, while the Canon EOS R6 Mark III is apparently due in the next couple of months, I think we're going to see more esoterica (think the Matrix-style Bullet Time setup from 2021). But we're almost certainly going to see more of the VR, AR and MR gear in which Canon has invested so heavily.

Which means that we could see the much-teased two-in-one 360° and VR 8K PowerShot camera that I first saw in person at The Photography & Video Show last year…

Fujifilm

My best guess as to what Fujfilm might have on show in Vegas is the GFX Eterna medium format cinema camera. On the one hand it feels a bit niche for the show, given that pure cine cameras aren't really CES' thing, but then again it's a prestige product that you can put in a glass case and not let anybody touch – which is always guaranteed to generate interest.

I don't think the playground of the most advanced technology on the planet is necessarily the right place to launch an instant camera, but Fujifilm confirmed that it's planning to drop more Instax stuff this year – so maybe we'll get something wacky like the Instax Mini Pal…

You might also like…

While there's a chance that we'll see one of the best mirrorless cameras appearing at the show, but my money is on new AI features being announced for the best photo editing software and the best video editing software.

French smart telescope maker Unistellar used IFA 2024 to announce a new image processing technology that promises to reveal more color and detail in deep-sky objects, including galaxies, star clusters and faint nebula.

Unistellar's new Vivid Vision Signal Processing technology, which will be available in October as a free firmware update across its suite of smart telescopes, will add an optional enhancement to each image, which will take two minutes to complete. Vivid Vision uses the latest data on the color of stars collected by the European Space Agency’s Gaia satellite, which has spent the last decade mapping the motions, luminosity, temperature and composition of stars. 

The brand currently has four smart telescopes across two ranges – the eQuinox 2 and eVscope 2 in its Expert range and the Odyssey and Odyssey Pro in its Discovery range, launched at CES 2024 in January. 

The eVscope 2 and Odyssey Pro both sport a Nikon-made eyepiece. The firmware update will apply to all current models but not to the first-gen eVscope and eQuinox, which lack the computing power, Unistellar confirmed. 

These reflector telescopes focus light on a Sony IMX CMOS sensor, with an onboard computer taking multiple short exposures of objects in the night sky and stacking them. Vivid Vision is an additional feature to the Enhanced Vision digital image processing suite, which presents a colorful, detail-rich, deep black image on smartphones and tablets via the Unistellar app. Vivid Vision promises more authentic colors of space, revealing the nuanced colors of stars, nebulae and galaxies.

“Recreating colors with sensors that see only three colors has been a big challenge since the beginning of digital photography,” said Laurent Marfisi, co-founder and CEO of Unistellar, to Digital Camera World in a press briefing. 

“Vivid Vision uses the Gaia database to better match the actual spectrum of colors of the universe.” The reddish nebula of the Cigar Galaxy (M82) and the blue and yellow of the Whirlpool Galaxy (M51) are two of the objects expected to benefit. “Stars in globular clusters like Hercules (M31) will look more red because they are older stars, which will help users to understand the stories of the universe,” said Marfisi. The current tech makes these stars appear white.

About 25,000 Unistellar smart telescopes have been sold so far, and its deep analysis and reprocessing of user images has directly led to the development of Vivid Vision, said the company. “We have relied on the millions of images shared with us from our users,” said Marfisi. 

Unistellar, which recently launched its Cosmic Card Collection to encourage regular observing, is currently running a campaign on Kickstarter for its augmented reality Envision binoculars, which will go on sale in 2025. 

In January I was in Las Vegas for the annual CES convention when the term “AI” was thrown about like a dog with a chew toy. Unlike other CES conventions of recent past – where 3D TVs and VR headsets were promised as the future – this time round AI seems to be causing a bit of a stir!

No longer are the gadgets the star of the show, it’s now a service or process where a machine learns from things you feed it. You, or someone else. Either information or text with context added, images, or even video and so on. You heard all this before. 

Fast forward to now. Adobe now seems to be asserting, in their terms and conditions, (that are well hidden to most customers) that they can use your images stored in the cloud for many purposes, using the kind of magic legal wording which is at once very woolly but yet still kinda pointed statement (for more read the What the hell is going on at Adobe? story).

Many of these big companies need to feed their massive AI monster machines. We know Facebook has been doing it for ages, and let us not forget the dumb apps where people create their Avatar in exchange for facial recognition, their firstborn child and their entire address book / phone book. Ever wonder where spam comes from? There is your answer! Stop using dumb apps, people!

Google likely uses AI machine feeding from their photos app via Android, and it seems reasonable (to me) to conclude that Apple are too – although that data stays behind its walled garden a bit better. 

At the time of going to press, Apple just had their AI-themed WWDC press event which included an OpenAI collab – one which seems to put a bit of a hole in that famous called garden. Apple's stock price dipped 2%. Weird? I think not (and nor did investors.com.

Regardless of Apple's strategic naivete, the un-regulation (for want of a better word) of AI is already a huge issue. For creatives, regardless of platform, that issue is already at critical mass. I have already seen other photographers' work appear as partly AI "generated" work, and to see if I could get something out of AI on one of the “free” online AI generators I got some kinda laughable results.

While the AI image is highly amusing, it’s made up of actual people, albeit in a frankenphoto way to cover their identities. While this AI generation isn't very sophisticated we have seen many that are.

So regulation would be the only way to fix the haves from the have-nots, and I propose a seal, like a membership club, which assures customers that a business does not feed an AI machine with any of the user's material.

This would make it easier for me to figure out where to spend my money. This could apply to email clients, browsers, cloud storage, operative systems and, most importantly right now, editing software. 

Alternatives to Adobe should be looked at but I think as a collective we need to push back, and remove ourselves from certain tools that are only there to feed their AI machine and use our work to do so, all while we pay for the privilege in the first place. 

Time to install Linux and go edit like the good ole days.

I have been very fortunate to be coming to this wonderful tech show here in Sin City for a number of years, and even during the “Covid CES” where I think me and about 17 people turned up I always had lots of different items to talk about. Products stood out just by walking past almost any booth, if you found it interesting or not, you would know exactly what it was about. 

Fast forward to CES 2024 and it's a completely new ball game. AI has taken over so much that nearly every stand leads with AI. Sure has its uses but the term has almost blurred the lines of what a product actually is and what it does, even some of the little guys and gals in Eureka Park have jumped onto the bandwagon so much, the wheels are bound to fall off. 

Just for clarity, Eureka Park is a section of CES deep in the basement of the Venetian where small start ups are showing off their kit. I like it. It’s where some of the most fantastic tech is and even if the product doesn't make the big time it's pleasing to see industry move innovation forward. 

And it’s here where I see the problem. A few nights ago I went to dinner with a lady I met at the bar. No giggling at the back, yes it happens in Vegas. We talked about tech and the smartly dressed lady told me she has her own AI startup and, based on her explanation, I was trying to figure out just how she expects her company to make money. 

To be fair she does have an app available in Apple's App Store (or whatever it's called, I love you Android users) with around 5,000 subscribers right now. I mean she's competing with some major players here, and even ten times that as a source of information feeding her AI machine won't compare with the amount the big boys have access to.

The other thing is, if that's the career where the university leavers are going – AI – it does beg the question "Who is going to make actual products that are actually needed to sustain them in the first place?"

We had dinner together that night with her colleagues and friends (if she's reading this, you are super smart and wonderful, keep going) are I can’t help feeling these are the exact things we did in the 90s with the internet boom, I think companies will get hurt and the way CES has built AI up this year it will only add fuel to the fire. 

In turn my concern for CES this year is that (while I have no real to back this up yet) it certainly feels like the big companies have fewer actual solid products to announce, and the small guys, looking at this, are following to keep being relevant in an AI driven world.

Then CES will cease to be interesting because we don’t need to come all the way to Paradice to listen to endless backend process marketing talk. Just make me a text adventure game, with AI. Now that's something I could get behind. 

Canon has been looking into the future and sees that VR has a part to play in its portfolio. The company already has the RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye lens as part of its full-frame lineup. In fact, some new VR lenses were on display while in development concept guise, for APS-C based cameras and a standalone device for capturing VR while working in run-and-gun mode.

All of these were interesting devices; some might have competition in our guide to the best 360 cameras, but clearly Canon are preparing for a new wave of content creation for devices like the Apple Vision Pro, Meta, and Sony goggles.

As an integral component of the EOS VR System, the RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye lens is designed to be paired seamlessly with the EOS R5 C, EOS R5 (firmware 1.5.0+), or EOS R6 Mark II (firmware 1.2.0), in conjunction with one of Canon's VR software solutions. Together, they enable the creation of immersive 3D content that can be enjoyed on compatible head-mounted displays, such as the Oculus Quest 2 and others.

I tried the content created from the lens / platform as I visited the Canon stand today at CES 2024 in Las Vegas, and wore a VR headset while watching a band play. The experience was fully immersive and enjoyable. While not in full 360, the same video is displayed when looking behind you.

Nice to see a camera company start experimenting with new ideas and content creation methods. I hope to try and see if I can get some content from my next trips to Alaska captured in VR. We shall see!

Kandao's pre-show spoiler seen in the flesh

On the subject of 360, Kandao had already given us forewarning of the new Qoocam 3 Ultra 360 8K dual-sensor camera for CES this year and think it could be a bit of a hit. The company also makes some great 360 hardware for conferencing as well as “action” cam style 360 cameras and this one is the newest of the range and out later this year. We now know that pricing will be less than $1000 when it arrives in the US this year. 

LG MyView smart monitors let you stream movies, shows, and sports, listen to music, and work remotely without having to connect to a PC. I’m pretty new to smart monitors and quite intrigued to have both a TV and PC monitor in one unit. 

The new models for 2024, including the CES Innovation Award-winning 32SR85U, feature LG IPS 4K displays that deliver stunning picture quality. 

LG's latest smart monitors come with an intuitive webOS interface, a personalized user experience, and a wide range of apps to choose from. LG MyView models are available in a variety of colors, including essence white, mild beige, cotton pink, and cotton green, to suit different tastes.

The new LG MyView displays (models 32SR85U, 32SR83U, and 32SR70U) feature 31.5-inch, 4K (3,840 x 2,160) IPS panels that set a new standard for picture quality in the smart monitor category. 

The remote has shortcuts to a variety of streaming platforms, including Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime. It also has a shortcut to WebOS apps.

The displays have a slim profile and a 3-side “virtually borderless” design to enhance the viewing experience and save space. The 32SR85U and 32SR83U come with an adjustable stand with a circular cutout, while the 32SR70U has a low-profile base for a compact and stylish look. The 32SR85U has been honored with a CES 2024 Innovation Award, a 2023 Red Dot Design Award, and a 2023 iF Design Award, well decorated indeed.

With webOS 23 onboard, LG MyView supports remote work and home entertainment, offering access to a wide variety of popular streaming services, productivity programs like Microsoft 365 and Google Calendar, and compatibility with AirPlay 2 and Miracast for wireless screen mirroring.

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth provide connectivity to the internet and compatible peripherals. The 32SR85U can be paired with a detachable Full-HD (1,920 x 1,080) webcam3 that's ideal for video conferencing and interactive applications.

Refresh rate is around 5ns across the range. Some hardcore gamers might be a little put off by that but on the whole most of the specs are similar with the same 4k specs, HDR output and the same colour spaces, colour accuracy is listed at DCI-P3 95%. The 32SR70U model is not as bright as the other two at 350nits vs 400nits. 

The best monitors for photographers and the best monitors for video editing.

Wearable tech has been a little quiet at CES 2024 (despite the efforts of Sony and XReal) but that doesn't mean super innovation is missing from the show. 

One company that caught my eye in the previews was Slimdesign and their PhoneCam. PhoneCam is just that, a wearable camera that attaches to your phone and on the face of it, sounds a bit boring, but when you consider the use cases for it, it's pretty epic. 

The camera is a wearable that can be attached to your person via a clothing magnet housing or can be clipped on securely. While, yes, its a camera wearable I think it's better described as a body cam with a few more features. The PhoneCam can also double as a Dash Cam for bikes or cars, or even a Doorbell, both have optional mounts costing less than $30. Jacketmagnet clip is $39.

PhoneCam is great for personal security, you can be wearing your PhoneCam while out running for example and if you feel threatened or worse, you can simply press the button on the front of the PhoneCam, this in turn sets off your chosen chain of events. You can, for example, stream and communicate with someone who responds in your emergency contact list, starting two-way communication via an attached mobile phone. Your GPS location is recorded and video and audio is recorded locally and into the cloud, and your location is sent to those in your emergency contact list.

The camera produced 1080p at 30fps images and video. The PhoneCam costs just $69 and some subscription plans are available if you livestream more than 10 times a month. A casual runner will find the free plan will suit most people anyway.

There is also a business plan which can be used for various applications, which costs $14.99 a month which includes 1000 mins alarm per person, 100Gb of storage and file management features via a web app.

Slimdesign say they should have this ready mid-summer and pre-orders are being taken right now at the phonecam.io site.

See our guide to the best body cameras and the best action cameras – the lines between the two seem to be blurring!

There are many ways to showcase a new product ahead of its launch, but they don't get much cooler than a short film created by an Oscar Award-winning cinematographer.

Sony unveiled the short at CES 2024 to showcase the capabilities of the soon-to-be-released Sony Burano, a full-frame 8K cinema camera. The Knowing is a film by cinematographer Emmanuel "Chivo" Lubezki, best known for his work on three Oscar-winning movies – Gravity, Birdman and The Revenant – and shares an important message about the conservation of endangered whales. 

You can watch the film below:

As expected the cinematography on display is exceptional, and the Burano will no doubt earn its place among the best cinema cameras on the market. Announced in September 2023, it offers exceptional specs in a lightweight and compact form factor. It takes the superior image quality from the Sony Venice and places it in a body that can be operated by an individual or a small team, with 16 stops of latitude and in-body image stabilization. 

Joined by award-winning National Geographic photographers Paul Nicklen and Cristina Mittermeier, the film highlights humanity's need for change and its duty to take care of the planet. Focusing on the endangered population of the Southern Right Whale, the film takes the viewer on a journey through Western Australia's land, sea and air, incorporating drone and underwater footage to put the camera through its paces. 

The film was made as part of Sony's Road to Zero global environmental plan, to partner with content creators and nonprofit organizations to raise awareness of the importance of conservation. "Conservation requires that we all participate, that we all do what we can to ensure that our planet and all of its creatures thrive," says Mittermeier. 

Using the platform available to large manufacturers to highlight global issues is a masterstroke, and creates a win-win for all. Not only does Sony get to show off the impressive features and capabilities of new camera equipment, it does so by delivering an important message. This is a growing trend, as Canon has also partnered with an organization to help restore damaged coral reefs. 

The Sony Burano is scheduled for release this Spring and further details about the included features and specifications can be found on the Sony webpage.

You can find out more information about filmmaking equipment in our guides to the best laptop for video editing, the best anamorphic lenses for filmmakers, and the best cine lenses for filmmakers. 

At Sony's press conference, the company had a lot to talk about, and creatives were clearly important to the company, though with Sony-owned Colmbia Pictures celebrating its 100th anniversary, the film studio's birthday was top of the agenda. 

Photographers and videographers will have been pleased to see the "world's fastest full-frame camera," the Sony A9iii (which you can preorder now) making plenty of appearances in the presentation, but in general the more interesting tools for creatives on display are connectivity tools for remote musical performance.

Like other companies, Sony seem concerned with the authenticity of creations – the battle to protect original content is being fought at Sony as well as elsewhere.

Sony's success with PlayStation is well-known, and of course they took the opportunity to talk about the PS5's 50 million sales and the PSVR2, but a new worn device – targeting a more professional & creative audience – also emerged.

This looks like a stripped down version of the PlayStation VR2, and didn't even get a name, but does come with a kind of controller wand ring. Pricing will be announced later in the year, when the device is due, so presumably what we're seeing here is Sony's attempt at establishing itself against the Apple Vision Pro. It'll be powered by the just announced Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 which can drive dual 4K OLED microdisplays and cope with the user / space tracking. Oh, and there will be 'video see-through'.

Toward the end of the presentation, it's time for the latest version of the Sony car which – just for fun – is being controlled using a PS5 controller. Apparently this won't be a feature of the final product, a partnership with Honda and now, it seems, Microsoft. Perhaps it'll use the new AI button!

See our guide to the best Sony lenses and the best Sony cameras.

The world’s global tech superpowers are intent on corralling mankind into a virtual world – and the latest attempt comes from arguably the biggest hitter, Apple. At the company’s 2023 Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple CEO Tim Cook used his “one more thing” moment to reveal the Apple Vision Pro mixed-reality headset and its all-new operating system; visionOS. Yesterday, Apple announced at CES 2024 that the headset will go on sale from next month So what is it, and why is it a big deal? 

This isn’t just any old virtual-reality headset: Apple claims it ushers in the “era of Spatial Computing”. In non-Apple speak, it’s a device that combines virtual and augmented reality into a product that could transform the way we interact with content, as well as how we create it.

Apple has gone all out to create a platform that currently has no direct comparison. Despite not being see-through, you can still see the real world while wearing the Apple Vision Pro headset, thanks to its complex sensor arrays. On the outside, a pair of high-res cameras transmits over one billion pixels per second to displays inside, allowing you to see out. Inside the device are two 4K OLED displays, roughly the size of an SD card each. The unit is packed with cameras, LED lights and infrared sensors to track your eye movement, your hands and the surrounding environment.

With over 500 patents associated with it, the Apple Vision Pro headset deploys many innovative approaches. For one, it can pass through an animation of your eyes to its outer OLED display in real time. Activated while ‘looking’ at the outside world, this is produced using 3D data scanned from your face. It animates your eyes using a camera sensor array that’s focused on their movement within the device. It looks creepy, but it’s an innovative solution to the disconnect typically associated with headsets. There are two spatial audio speakers beside the wearer’s ears. These are designed to provide detailed sound corresponding to where the audio is coming from, reacting as you turn your head to pay attention to the source.

The device is controlled using the movement of your eyes and hands, and predictive modeling makes it seem almost telepathic. As a demonstration of this kit’s potential, it’s impressive. But what impact could it have on the way we consume content?

When Apple sneezes, the world of tech catches a fever, so this could be the shot in the arm that VR needs. We’ve been speculating for decades about when a sci-fi level of mixed reality would arrive; Apple wielding its mass-market appeal over a niche domain has the potential to deliver it.

Apple’s Vision Pro, as a spatial computer (attached to a keyboard and mouse), would remove the need for computer monitors while editing your pictures and videos, placing a high-resolution display that wraps around you in all directions, anywhere you can set up a desk. It could make working on the go and working collaboratively seamless, as others can step into the edit with you in a way that they can’t when watching a shared screen via a typical online meeting platform.

While there are still some drawbacks with this first-generation device, including a two-hour battery life and tethered-only power, the Apple Vision Pro will likely spark a rush of software makers and content producers seeking ways to use immersive camera technology even more. This means more focus on 360° and high-res video, as well as spatial audio. If you’ve only ever had a passing interest in 360° camera tech, perhaps now is the time to start familiarizing yourself with its potential. You may also want to start thinking more about how the content you capture today will be viewed in tomorrow’s world, after the Apple Vision Pro releases next year.

Read more of Jon Devo's Scanning Ahead blogs

Read more:

• Apple Vision Pro production only 10% of predictions – is it giving up on 3D camera already?
• Canon's VR meeting tech Kokomo will make your goggles disappear
• Best VR headset for the 360 experience

It's CES 2024 time, so that means we are about to see a deluge of weird and wonderful products, that will in likelihood never make it to market. However getting in there before the show has even got into full swing, Belkin has unveiled one of the coolest vlogging and steaming accessories I have seen yet – and even better, you can buy it soon!

The Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro is an AI-powered camera assistant stand that can sit on your desk, and follow your movements so you are always kept in frame. If you are a particularly animated vlogger or streamer, or just can’t sit still during a video call, then this might just be the thing for you. 

The stand works with DockKit – an Apple addition in iOS 17 that pretty much went under most people’s radar. DockIt is an API that iPhone apps can hook into that allows the iPhone camera face and body tracking smarts to communicate with accessories like the Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro for automatic motorized tracking. 

The Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro can track 360º of horizontal movement, freeing you to walk around the room, and has up to 90º of horizontal tilt to track you as you stand up and sit down. The stand can be powered from a wall socket or has a rechargeable battery promising up to 5 hours of battery life for creativity or meetings on the go, and an LED light keeps you informed of when it is recording.

The Auto-Tracking Stand Pro has a built-in MagSafe charger so you can charge your device at the same time as streaming or chatting when the Stand is plugged into a 15W charger, and there is a 5ft USB-C cable and 30W power supply supplied in the box.

Currently, the Auto-Tracking Stand Pro is pegged to work with FaceTime, Instagram, TikTok, Canva, WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, as well as other social media apps or messaging platforms. As more developers get to grips with the new tech we can likely expect to see more apps and accessories in this space soon.

The Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro will cost $179.99 and be available to pre-order later this month from Belkin’s website, with shipping starting soon after that.

Expand your online creativity with our guide to the best cameras for vlogging or the best camera phone.

French smart telescope maker Unistellar has launched two new smart telescopes at CES 2024. 

The Unistellar Odyssey ($2,499/£2,199) and Odyssey Pro ($3,999/£3,499) join the eQuinox 2 and eVscope 2 in the company's four-strong lineup of smart telescopes. Both can be aligned and controlled remotely using a newly developed smartphone app.

While Unistellar's two legacy smart telescopes – the eVscope 2 and eQuinox 2 – deal primarily in dim and distant deep sky objects such as galaxies, nebula, and star clusters, the Odyssey and Odyssey Pro can also image the solar system. Unistellar also reports that it has surpassed 10,000 sales of its smart telescopes. 

Both the new smart telescopes are 3.35-inch/85mm reflector telescopes with a focal length of 320mm. Smaller and more affordable than their 4.5-inch/114mm reflector/450 focal length forebears, the two new smart telescopes use Unistellar's proprietary Multi-Depth Technology, which allows the Odyssey and Odyssey Pro to switch instantly from observing deep-sky objects to planets and the moon. They each have a field of view of 34 x 45 arcminutes and a battery life of five hours. 

While the Odyssey doesn't have an eyepiece, the Odyssey Pro adds one that, like the eVscope 2, has a Nikon-made eyepiece. The Odyssey Pro also increases the resolution of its astrophotography from the Odyssey's 3.4 megapixels to 4.1 megapixels. 

"They represent the ultimate technological innovation in telescopes," said Laurent Marfisi, co-founder and CEO of Unistellar, to Digital Camera World in a press briefing. "They provide people who are not familiar with astronomy or with space exactly the same kind of meaningful and emotional experience as people who already have knowledge about astronomy." 

He added that the Odyssey and Odyssey Pro are designed to help people curious about the night sky but have no idea where to start. "People don't know what's out there in space, so we're bridging that gap with an app that is easier to use and hardware that is super-powerful but even more user-friendly than before," said Marfisi. 

The Odyssey and Odyssey Pro are available now from the Unistellar website. In April, Unistellar will also sell the Odyssey Pro Red Edition (£3,999). Both the eVscope 2 and eQuinox 2 will continue to be sold. 

Read more: 

The best telescopes

The best camera for astrophotography

The best CCD cameras for astrophotography

The best lenses for astrophotography

The best light pollution filters

Sony is one of the biggest brands exhibiting at CES 2024 and, while nothing official has been announced ahead of time, it looks like the manufacturer is going all in on content creation, teasing "various technologies and initiatives that support creators" for its official press conference – which you can watch in the link down below. 

The company has teased its presser with a fascinating image that depicts cameras, headphones, Microphones, VR (specifically what looks like PlayStation VR) and, um, Ghostbusters (with 2024 being the 40th anniversary of the original film, along with the launch of the new Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire movie). 

"At CES 2024, Sony will showcase various technologies and initiatives that support creators, based on Sony's purpose to 'fill the world with emotion, through the power of creativity and technology.'"

So what could this mean, in terms of the tech on show? Well, while CES is a general technology event, rather than a showcase of imaging equipment, the focus on creators certainly seems like a big signpost towards video – and we know of two such products that are expected to arrive this year.

The first is the Sony ZV-E10 II, successor to the enormously popular Sony ZV-E10 vlogging camera. This feels like a bit of a no-brainer to me, if Sony is targeting vloggers in specific. 

Another potential candidate is the Sony FX3 II, which is the follow-up to the well-received Sony FX3 that was a halfway house between video-oriented mirrorless body and full-fledged cinema camera. The FX3 is already a great hybrid for creators and, given recent rumors that the FX3 II could replace the Sony A7S line of cameras (which is a go-to for high-end vloggers), CES could be the ideal launchpad.

Whatever Sony announces, you can watch the entire press conference live in the YouTube livestream below on January 08 at 17:00 PST / 01:00 GMT / January 09 11:00 AEST. You can also watch the presser with ASL interpretation here.

Check out the best Sony cameras along with the best Sony lenses to use with them. You might also be interested in the best cameras for vlogging, the best cameras for video and the best cameras for filmmaking.

Dell Technologies has been recognized as a CES 2024 Innovation Award Honoree for its latest innovation: the Dell UltraSharp 40 Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor (U4025QW). The world's first 40-inch 5K monitor is certified for five-star eye comfort and marks nine years of Dell dominating the monitor industry.  

Whether you are a content creator, a data scientist, an engineer or simply in need of a high-performance monitor, the U4025QW curved monitor promises the ultimate precision and efficiency to keep you productive in any work environment. This ultrawide curved VESA DisplayHDR 600 certified monitor boasts IPS Black Panel technology for superior color contrast and intricate detail in 5K resolution (5120 x 2160).

Dell has taken a step further in prioritizing user wellbeing by partnering with TUV Rheinland to enhance eye wellness. The U4025QW is the first monitor to receive the TUV Rheinland five-star eye comfort certification, setting a new industry standard for reducing signs of eye fatigue. 

Dell achieved this milestone by doubling the refresh rate to 120Hz, incorporating an ambient light sensor for automatic brightness adjustment, and enhancing Dell ComfortView Plus to reduce harmful blue light exposure by more than 30%.

Recent studies indicate that these improvements can lead to a significant reduction in eye fatigue, ensuring a more comfortable and healthier viewing experience for users engaged in prolonged screen use.

For tasks requiring pinpoint color accuracy, the U4025QW boasts a 99% DCI-P3 / Display P3 color space, making it perfect for color-critical professionals. The monitor also features Thunderbolt 4 for single-cable convenience with up to 140W power delivery, high-speed wired Ethernet connectivity at 2.5 Gbps via RJ45, and HDMI 2.1 FRL and DisplayPort 1.4 for smooth image transmission.

The monitor is presented in a premium platinum silver finish with front-facing quick-access ports for easy connectivity. For those seeking a smaller display, the Dell UltraSharp 34 Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor offers similar features with a WQHD resolution (3440 x 1440).

Dell has also reinforced its commitment to sustainability by incorporating more sustainable materials in both the production and packaging processes. The packaging for the UltraSharp monitors is made from 100% recycled or renewable content, while the monitors themselves are made from 85% post-consumer recycled plastic and 100% recycled aluminum, meeting environmental standards such as EnergyStar and TCO Certified Edge, and achieving EPEAT Gold registration.

The Dell UltraSharp 40 Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor will be available worldwide from February 27 with a starting price of $2,399.99 / £1,885 / AU$3,558. The Dell Ultrasharp 34 Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor will also be available on the same day with prices starting at $1,019.99 / £800 / AU$1,511. 

Check out the best monitors for photo editing as we round up a range of affordable and premium screens that'll help you get the most out of your photos

In the fast-paced world of content creation, storage that complements your workflow is vital – and LaCie has built a reputation for providing just that. 

Adding to its already impressive lineup of portable storage solutions, LaCie has announced the LaCie Rugged Mini SSD at CES 2024. The Rugged series of SSDs are world-renowned for being both robust and powerful, placing them among the best portable hard drives on the market. 

The bright orange rubber casing has become iconic and identifiable among creatives, but it's not just the aesthetics that make these great storage solutions. The new LaCie Rugged Mini SSD is a portable storage drive that "delivers up to 4TB of durable, fast, and compact capacity".

Write speeds of up to 2000MB/s provide fast data transfer and feature USB 3.2 gen 2x2 technology. This offers compatibility with USB 40Gbps, USB 10Gps, Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 3 hosts including the latest Apple iPad, iPhone and Macbooks, as well as other portable computing devices.

"The ultimate storage companion for content creators, this high-performance drive is designed for effortlessly capturing, storing, and transporting essential files, videos, and photos," says LaCie.

An important feature, and one that earned the Rugged series its stature, is its robust form, making it the go-to for creatives on the move. The new Rugged Mini SSD, designed by Neil Poulton, provides the same durable rubber enclosure made from 30% post-consumer recycled materials. The enclosure also benefits from being IP54-rated for dust and rain resistance, offering "3-meter drop protection and 1-ton car pressure resistance" – earning its Rugged name!

The Rugged Mini SSD is compatible with Windows, macOS, and iPadOS straight of the box, and employs the LaCie Toolkit software for on-demand backup and mirroring that enables seamless file access and syncing across multiple devices.

There is a reason these SSDs are adored by content creators, especially those who shoot in challenging environments or travel often. They provide reliable and secure storage for your most treasured projects, and the new mini form makes travel all that much easier.

The Lacie Rugged Mini SSD is available now at the price of $79.99 (500GB), $119.99 (1TB), $189.99 (2TB), and $349.99 (4TB). We will update when we have global pricing.

Take a look at the best SSDs and best portable SSDs you can buy right now.

CES 2024, the biggest technology event in the world, is taking place this week – and it's going to be the site of some huge announcements in the world of electronics. 

As always (at least, when there's not a pandemic), CES 2024 will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada and runs from January 09-12. Last year saw 117,000 visitors and 3,200 exhibitors at the event, including the biggest technology giants such as Google and Microsoft.

Of specific interest to us, of course, are the imaging giants who are participating at this year's show: Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, Fujifilm and Adobe. While CES 2024 is a general technology showcase, not one dedicated to photography or videography in specific, it has been used as a launchpad for cameras and imaging tech. And with both video and AI being cornerstones of this year's event, we're sure to see some exciting launches.

Full details on the show can be found at the CES website. For now, here's what we're have seen launched so far, and what we expect… We also have a CES 2024 Live Blog.

CES 2024 announcements

Sony show new XR glasses and the A9iii at CES

Sony's main press presentation is covered in detail, but the highlights include a real Sony/Honda car controlled with a PlayStation controller, the A9iii (well, it's a highlight for photographers), some thought about AI and creatives, and a potential competitor for Apple's Vision Pro augmented reality goggles.

AI PetPet Cam uses neural net to spot cute events!

ITIR are showing their upcoming Pet Pet Cam which can use DNN (Deep Neural Net) models to spot your cat or dog doing something cute. The tech will also help keep an eye on your pet's health. See our full story here.

Panasonic launches "world's smallest" macro lens

The highlight of Panasonic's press conference for us was the arrival of the new Lumix 100mm f/2.8 S Macro lens for its L-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. Panasonic says this is the smallest and lightest macro lens in its class - but more importantly it fills a whole in its line-up on lenses for its S series of cameras.

Read more: Panasonic announces a record-breaking macro lens for L-mount

Apple sets date for its VR goggles

Apple announced is long-rumored augmented reality headset last year - but we now when the Apple  Vision Pro goggles will go on sale, and we don't have long to wait. Preorders open on January 19, with the first headsets actually going on sale on February 2. 

Read more: Apple launches a Vision Pro goggles with 12 cameras on board

Belkin launches motorized mount for vloggers

The Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro is an AI-powered camera assistant stand that can sit on your desk, and follow your movements so you are always kept in frame. If you are a particularly animated vlogger or streamer, or just can’t sit still during a video call, then this might just be the thing for you. The Belkin Auto-Tracking Stand Pro will cost $179.99 and be available to pre-order later this month from Belkin’s website, with shipping starting soon after that. See our full news report.

Unistellar launches two smart telescopes

The Unistellar Odyssey ($2,499/£2,199) and Odyssey Pro ($3,999/£3,499) join the eQuinox 2 and eVscope 2 in the company's four-strong lineup of smart telescopes. Both can be aligned and controlled remotely using a newly developed smartphone app. Unlike the existing models, the new Odyssey range is designed for observations of our own solar system, rather than more distant objects. Whilst images from the Odyssey have to be viewed on the app on a tablet or phone, the Odyssey Pro comes with an electronic viewfinder that has been developed in cooperation with Nikon.

See our full report Unistellar reveals new Odyssey and Odyssey Pro smart telescopes at CES 2024

Holocam holographic transparent camera

Zeiss' remarkable Holocam technology can turn any glass screen into a camera. This means that everything from the window in your car to the screen on your laptop to the glass on your front door can now possess an invisible image sensor.

Further, because the technology makes the camera completely transparent, it eliminates the need for cutouts or punch holes – meaning you can have direct eye contact with the person you're chatting to, because the camera can be placed anywhere on (or should that be in) the screen.

Using an entire pane of glass as a camera lens also opens some fascinating optical possibilities. Some of Zeiss' bullet points include "large aperture invisible camera" and "individual adjustment of orientation and size of the field of views." Which makes me wonder, what is the maximum aperture and focal range of a camera like this?

• Full story: This holographic camera turns any window into an invisible camera

LaCie Rugged Mini SSD

The palm-sized LaCie Rugged Mini SSD has been announced in capacities up to 4TB offering IP54 dust and rain resistance, 3-meter drop protection and 1-ton car pressure resistance. No need to baby your portable SSD any more!

LaCie claims write speeds of up to 2000MB/s, with USB 3.2 gen 2x2 and compatibility with USB 40Gbps, USB 10Gps, Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 3 hosts including the latest Apple iPad, iPhone and Macbooks. Prices start at $79.99 for 500GB and go up to $349.99 for 4TB.

Full story: LaCie adds to its famous Rugged lineup with a new palm-sized SSD

Dell UltraSharp 40 Curved Thunderbolt Hub Monitor

Dell dropped a new, eye fatigue-busting curved monitor – and in doing so, was recognized as an Innovation Award Honoree. The U4025QW monitor boasts IPS Black Panel technology for superior color contrast and intricate detail in 5K resolution, with a 99% DCI-P3 / Display P3 color space that makes it perfect for color-critical professionals. 

The U4025QW is the first monitor to receive the TUV Rheinland five-star eye comfort certification, achieved by doubling the refresh rate to 120Hz, incorporating an ambient light sensor for automatic brightness adjustment, and enhancing Dell ComfortView Plus to reduce harmful blue light exposure by more than 30%. 

• Full story: Dell's new 40" UltraSharp monitor introduces innovative tech for reducing eye fatigue

When is CES 2024?

CES 2023 is taking place in its traditional home of Las Vegas, Nevada, running from Tuesday January 09 to Friday January 12. 

The event emanates from the Las Vegas Convention Center. If you're in the area, attendance details are on the CES website.

What did we expect at CES 2024?

Sony

Word has it that Sony could announce five cameras this year, among them the Sony A1 II, A7S IV, FX3 II and ZV-E10 II. With all of these featuring headline video capabilities, it would certainly be the right time and place to debut at the video-obsessed CES.

The company is heavily signposting technology for content creators: "At CES 2024, Sony will showcase various technologies and initiatives that support creators, based on Sony's purpose to 'fill the world with emotion, through the power of creativity and technology.'" So I think a follow-up to the hugely popular Sony ZV-E10 vlogging camera looks like a fair expectation:

Personally I think it's waaaaaay too early for a Sony A1 successor, and this wouldn't really be the appropriate venue for it. Though with a new rumor that the company could replace the Sony A7S III (and the A7S line altogether) and the Sony FX3 with the FX3 II, this feels like a new pillar for the video division that would be well-cemented in Las Vegas. 

Sony's press conference takes place on Monday January 08, so all will be revealed soon. 

Panasonic

 There's been plenty of chatter about replacements for the Panasonic S1 / S1R, Panasonic S1H and Panasonic GH6. And given that the company launched the Panasonic S5X and S5 IIX last January, it's entirely possible that an S1R II, S1H II and GH7 could be revealed at CES 2024. 

Of course, as a general tech giant, we could see plenty of other adjacent imaging breakthroughs. At last year's show Panasonic announced "life changing" smart glasses, made in conjunction with Biel Glasses, using AI to help users with impaired vision. 

Heck, maybe we might finally see Panasonic announce something 8K-related… with the presser being held on Monday January 08, we don't have to wait long to find out.

Canon

Will CES 2024 be the launchpad for the highly anticipated Canon EOS R1? We all know that the new flagship is on the way, and that it's intended to launch in time for the Paris Olympics, so time is running out for Canon to show it to the world. 

There are plenty of other possibilities, too. The Canon EOS R5 II feels a little ambitious, but Canon has a habit of showcasing its latest collection of concept cameras – many of which have made it to market, such as the Canon PowerShot Zoom and Canon PowerShot Pick. These are always fascinating glimpses into the future, and I'm excited to see what's on show this year! 

Nikon

After a knockout year in 2023, Nikon could capitalize by taking the bull by the horns early in 2024. The only thing we know for sure will be at CES is the Eclipse Ui Digital Imaging Microscope, but Nikon has confirmed that imaging products will also be on show.

The likeliest candidate to me would be the Nikon Z6 III, which is widely expected to be here any minute. There has also been a wild rumor about a Nikon Z9H – a speed-oriented version of the Nikon Z9. The "H" is ostensibly a nod to the suffix Nikon used to give to its flagship cameras to denote particular performance specialisms – such as the Nikon D1H, which was a speed-oriented upgrade of the base D1. Personally I'll believe this one when I see it!

Fujifilm

This feels like a bit of a long shot, as Fujifilm is usually more at home announcing products on its home turf at CP+. That said, with reports that the manufacturer will launch more cameras in January alone than it did in 2023 as a whole, a launch or announcement isn't out of the question.

What could this be? Well, a follow-up to the Fujifilm X100V is widely expected – and given what a blockbuster success that camera was, it could be a good fit for the broader-appeal of CES 2024. An outside chance would be the Instax Mini 99, which sounds like it might be a disruptive product. 

We're expecting to see some of the best cameras for video and maybe even the best cameras for vlogging announced at the show, along with AI improvements to the best photo editing software and the best video editing software.

I've been reviewing the Kandao QooCam 3 for a few weeks and it's an excellent 360-degree camera, but before I've even finished we've learned the camera is to get a more powerful bigger brother with the addendum 'Ultra' to its name.

That makes a lot of sense given that Kandao have a wealth of high-spec 360-degree camera experience, which we've seen not only in consumer cameras but in their numerous contenders for best conferencing cameras like the Kandao Meeting Pro. It also makes sense in the context of the competition; if the QooCam 3 has broadly the same specs as the Insta 360 X3 – perhaps the best-known consumer 360-degree camera – then this is a swipe at that company's prosumer option.

The QooCam 3 Ultra will be revealed at CES 2024, the massive consumer electronics show which runs January 9-14 in Las Vegas. Styled like a taller version of the square QooCam 3, it has dual 1/1.7 sensors and fish-eye lenses, four built-in microphones, and a six-axis gyroscope. In-camera live-streaming and even live stitching will be supported, suggesting Kandao are aiming to dominate a future in which streamers don't even need to point their cameras, and viewers might be using goggles.

The maximum video capture will be 8K at 30fps, while 5.7K can be recorded at 60fps. The Ultra will also support 10-bit HLG video recording, while the camera can capture stills at 96-megapixels. A DNG8 Raw+ algorithm will allow, say Kandao, "capturing enhanced panoramic photos that preserve rich image details and deliver exceptional quality."

Admittedly we'll need to reserve final judgement on the QooCam 3 Ultra until the pricing is announced. One of the big advantages of the QooCam 3 is that it is relatively affordable, which I imagine will serve to further ignite interest in the 360-camera field (personally I first got hooked before the QooCam 3 came out with the aforementioned Insta360 X3, and am still enjoying experimenting with this new way of thinking about imaging). 

For many thinking of taking the leap, a bit more resolution will make a difference (remember that the 8K is across both lenses, so once you start editing you tend to crop out detail). Will Kandao make the price as appealing as the package?

Check our guide to the best 360 cameras or if you would rather choose direction, check out the best action cameras.

It's International Drone Day and I have to ask, "Is the golden age of drones already behind us?" It's not that the tech is getting worse; it's better than ever. But I am starting to feel that we've passed Max-Q; the pressure to improve is slackening off while rules (and irresponsible pilots) are spoiling things for everyone.

When I was first getting into what we now call drones, the emerging community hated the word 'Drone.' Hated it. There were connotations of the Predator and Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which had dropped thousands of bombs in Iraq. Their use was, at best, unsporting in military terms. Very few enthusiastic hobbyists playing with electronics and software wanted the association.

Now most of us hear 'drone' and picture a small radio-controlled quadcopter and war – until recently at least – was off the agenda. Instead, there was a series of innovations that quickly took the tech from niche to mainstream. It was relentlessly exciting, with something new coming all the time, but perhaps the most significant step belongs to the Parrot AR.Drone, the darling of CES 2010.

Before video product launches, when the world's tech journalists congregated in Las Vegas's giant exhibition center, it was actually possible to surprise us with new tech. Especially if you had to duck out of its way! That's how this now giant-seeming quadcopter (it was 503mm, or 20in, in diameter) met the world. It also owed its existence to the then-new App Store, since the remote controller was the iPhone. Amazing (well, it was then, okay!)

It wasn't that their ideas were completely new. A "Mr RC-CAM" had described such a device in 1999 on an MSN group (like a forum, but even before them). The tech was enthusiastically developed by 'hackers' to the point that transmitters and goggles were available to the hobby community in 2007. At the time as popular with RC car drivers as it was with planes.

The other half of the tech equation was the compact gyros and computers able to act as 'flight controllers' that could level an arrangement of four propellers. The first was the Draganflyer in 1999, but it was a full decade before anyone showed much interest. It didn't help that a certain amount of self-assembly was needed for the first flight controllers. One hacking site recommended using the gyros from Wii controllers to build drone controllers.

In less time than it took for Parrot to establish worldwide sales channels for its very consumer product, another company reacted to the community demand. DJI. If you follow drones, you might have heard of them! DJI entered the ready-made flight controller market with a compact box called the NAZA, which I used to build my first hexacopter (yes, the first quad I'd recently assembled, from wood, wasn't big enough!)

In 2013 DJI would go on to build a quadcopter using the same card, as well as create a remote controller for it. Quickly after they created a mount for a GoPro. Then a stabilized one. Then their own built-in camera. Meet the Phantom 2, in October 2013. Arguably that already marked the end of rapid development, but the actual experience was somewhat different. The wider world was only just beginning to get a handle on the drone community and there was plenty more momentum – in every sense – in the FPV world.

By 2015 the excitement around drones was such that it was spreading beyond geek-thusiasts. The now-defunct That Drone Show had appeared, and – while it didn't live past 2017 – it did instigate a popular idea, International Drone Day, which permeated the enthusiast community and led to hundreds of mini air shows in fields around the world. At each, enthusiasts would share their skills and knowledge with curious locals, not to mention the media.

For me, that was probably the golden age. After that point, there were enough fliers and enough consumer products that aviation authorities had to get involved. In the UK, for example, there had been decades of safe flight by members of the British Model Flyers Association (BMFA), many flying planes and helicopters with small petrol engines. Self-policing was no longer practical. There was also enough interest that my Complete Guide to Drones book was commissioned! 

A year after that first International Drone Day saw the arrival of the Mavic Pro, a folding airframe design that has, let's say 'influenced' almost all subsequent consumer and pro drones. Sure, it's been refined. But most drones did start to look a bit 'samey.'

Now the excitement – the next golden age – comes from software and sensor developments. Yes, AI is on the agenda here too. But this time it's cool; witness the Skydio. This is a drone that can follow you as you charge between the trees on a BMX, plotting its own course. You can also pre-program and repeat flight paths, a feature that is not technically difficult but has been gently removed from most consumer drones. 

The Skydio seems to represent a kind of hope that drones might keep developing. In the smart flight area, at least, they're winning. I, for one, hope that they're forced to compete with DJI rather than enjoy a helping hand from the US government's trade restrictions. Sadly, though, trade embargos aren't the worst story drones are now associated with, as consumer drones are now being adapted on an industrial scale to be put to use in Ukraine.

It's sad to see images of what looks like my old hobby soldering desk featuring similar-looking projects, but which have rather less peaceful goals. Not only that but the very nature of FPV video means the clips are being widely shared, just as twenty years ago.

Perhaps it's naive to want the term drone associated with spectacular, seemingly impossible videos of mountainsides and nature. Of flying for pleasure and creation. To think in terms of megapixels rather than megatons. But it was definitely something I was happier to be associated with. There is excitement in drones, but the next golden age will be in delivery tech and beyond-line-of-sight flying, so it'll involve more paperwork.

That's not all bad though. Things settling a bit might mean it's a good time to join the fun. The stability of DJI's line that the new Mavic 3 Pro suggests certainly seems to agree with that.

Fun fact: International Drone Day 2023 coincides not only with the coronation of Charles III in the UK, but with World Naked Gardening Day. I'm going to leave that option alone, but instead suggest it's time to look at the best camera drone for you. The fun is still there to be had (albeit a bit more reliably) as the best FPV drones demonstrate.

Last week Parrot group, the company behind the AR.Drone and Anafi series of drones, reported 64% growth. That might come as a bit of a surprise to many owners of Parrot drones, since the company 'finalized' sales of consumer drones in 2021 but in fact Parrot – and the Anafi brand – is still very much in business, and made €70.7 in 2022.

The company's financial statement also shows that it's still investing, with €43.6 of that income spent on R&D. In their outlook they also note the "context of increased sovereignty" which might be read as a not-too-coded reference to the US restrictions on Chinese companies (not least DJI, which is still the consumer favorite with many entries on our best camera drones list, but can't sell to US government agencies).

A few years ago, many assumed Parrot would own the consumer drone market. The AR.Drone was shown at CES in 2010 and it lit up the tech world. it was fun, and revolutionary – offering control via a phone app on the then-new Apple App Store. By modern standards, the 11-minute (if you were lucky) flight time, wi-fi limited control range, and low-res camera wouldn't get you far, but that was then. And then everyone expected great things from Parrot and the concept its CEO Henri Seydoux had proven.

The AR.Drone 2.0 followed in 2012, improving to a 720P camera and bringing a 'black box' GPS accessory. Oh, and yes, it was still cool to say version numbers like "two-point-oh" then! It sold around 500,000 units in its lifetime, not bad at all for a product that was something of a novelty. Even better when you think that the AR in the name was for Augmented Reality so Parrot also developed software to support that functionality.

In 2013, a small Chinese company, DJI, released a drone called the Phantom which was able to carry a GoPro, and was piloted using the kind of radio control that model airplane owners were familiar with. As photographers looked on with interest, and DJI made swift revisions, Parrot instead concentrated on a series of 'toy' drones like the Mambo.

Parrot's Bebop drones were smaller and emphasized some limited software stabilization for their video, but only in 2018 did Parrot make a serious effort at appealing to photography and video customers with the quirky, but exciting Anafi. You can see what we thought of it at the time, but as it transpired the drone struggled in the consumer market against the Mavic series. It did, however, become the basis for a follow-up – the Anafi USA.

This was a pricey product with a thermal camera ideally suited to niche markets like surveying and emergency services. By emblazoning the national superpower name on the side (and actually assembling in the US), Parrot was able to capitalize on push-back against Chinese manufacturers. 

Founder and Henri Seydoux is still CEO at Parrot.

• The best camera drones
• The best DJI drones
• The best drones for beginners
• The best cheap drones
• The best underwater drones

Canon is taking further steps into the world of virtual reality with Kokomo Solution – VR software that enables face-to-face communication in a virtual space with live-action video. 

Canon first unveiled Kokomo at CES 2022, describing it as a product that offers a "real together experience", but back then it was still in its infancy. Now Canon has announced that a free early access version will be available from February. 

Kokomo works alongside compatible VR headsets, such as the Meta Quest 2 (previously known as the Oculus Quest 2). Without the need for complicated multi-camera setups, family and friends from all over the world can easily communicate in a virtual space that feels intimate.

• These are the best VR headsets for a 360° experience

Using an app on a compatible smartphone, such as the iPhone 14 Pro or Google Pixel 7, users can connect with callers who also have a compatible headset and communicate as if they were face-to-face. In a post-pandemic world where video calls have become the norm, applications such as Kokomo provide a solution to interacting with friends, families or colleagues that don't live locally in a way that feels more personal. 

The software works using image processing developed by Canon, which recreates the user's face and space captured through the smartphone app, enabling users to make an “Immersive Call”.

When using a compatible smartphone that can capture full body images, the user can also interact using gestures – while a built-in media player enables users to share videos and photos in a virtual world. 

As well as the default virtual space, which allows users to interact in a relaxed and chilled environment, users can also choose different spaces in which to hold a call – such as 'Malibu Trailer' modeled on Malibu, California, 'North Shore' or 'Mountain Tea House'. At CES 2023, people were also able to test out a brand new VR experience inspired by M Night Shyamalan's new film, Knock at the Cabin. 

As VR headsets continue to drop in price and become more accessible, these apps are almost certain to become increasingly common. With software such as Kokomo Solution, communication with friends and family who live far away has never been so "real".

Check out the best Canon cameras including a range of classic DSLRs and the latest mirrorless systems

Ring has announced that its clever and competitive security monitoring technology will now be available to watch over your car. Taking the form of a small and discreet camera, this Ring Car Cam will record your view as you drive, with an additional camera facing toward the driver seat for an inside look at your car. 

Both a front and rear live view of your car will be accessible anytime, acting as a deterrent to ward off any thieves with a two-way communication system, motion detection, and night vision. It will give you the same peace of mind as you get with the best Ring cameras, allowing you to keep an eye on your vehicle no matter where you decide to park, with GPS included too.

The world's most influential trade show, CES 2023, has been making all of our tech dreams come true lately, announcing developments with ASUS laptops and 3D imaging, as well as "life-changing" Panasonic glasses for the visually impaired, and now Ring has stepped up to the plate with the latest announcement of the vehicle security Ring Car Cam. 

Available for pre-order now, the Ring Car Cam from Amazon will begin shipping to US customers as early as February, priced at approximately $249.99 (£205 / AU$360). However, you might want to get your Cam pre-ordered now – as the Ring Car Cam is currently available at a lower price of $199.99 (£165 / AU$289 approximately) for a limited time only during the pre-order stage.

Owning one of the best dash cams is a great way to protect yourself and your vehicle while on the road, documenting every shred of evidence should you need it for an insurance claim. But Ring has taken it a step further with the Ring Car Cam, able to alert you if someone is attempting to steal your car in a parking lot, climbing into your car boot at a gas station, and can even let you know where your car is parked should you forget, with a built-in GPS function. 

As can be seen from the promotional video above, Ring has been pulling out all of the stops to make this smart security device one of the best front and rear dash cams that offer top-of-the-range monitoring, all controlled by the Ring App.

Two cameras, one dual-facing, are equipped with Night Vision and able to detect plus record any suspicious movement, providing you with the clearest picture of any activity to help keep you alert of a potential break-in or collision while parked, with real-time alerts when motion is detected.

Check-in on your vehicle at any time with Live View and Two-Way Talk via the compatible smart Ring App when your Car Cam is connected to your home wifi, or using LTE as provided through a Ring Protect Go subscription. The Ring Car Cam also offers a unique feature called Traffic Stop, which will record several minutes of action if the user says, “Alexa, record,” even if the car is stationary or parked. This feature would be extremely helpful in instances if you are pulled over or congested. 

The dual-facing camera has the option to record both when your car is in motion, and when it’s turned off - should any movement be detected. The Car Cam plugs into and is powered by your vehicle’s battery - via the OBD-II port - and can be securely attached to your car windshield and dashboard, with the cable neatly tucked away. 

For those a little worried about the Ring Car Cam and Alexa's always-recording and always-listening design, the company has included a privacy shutter that can be switched over for the inside-facing camera, which easily disables the interior video and all audio when it is covered over, to retain privacy and control. Just don't forget to re-open the shutter when you lock or park your car. 

Ring Protect Go is a service that can extend your Ring vehicle protection, with an LTE cellular connection for the RIng Car Cam enabling you to access live view and other features when your car is away from your home Wi-Fi connection, such as when you're grocery shopping and wish to view your vehicle in the parking lot, or if you've left your vehicle behind at an airport. Users can subscribe to Ring Protect Go for $6 per month or $60 per year.

Ring's Chief Technology Officer, Josh Roth, has shared that "I’m always humbled by the stories of how Ring has made a real-world impact, like when Ring Alarm stopped a burglary from happening in Ontario, California, or when footage from one of our cameras helped lead to the arrest of an attempted kidnapper in Ohio, and of course, the number of times our devices helped families find missing loved ones who accidentally wandered off."

What do you think of this newly-announced smart dash cam from Ring? Let us know!

You may also want to take a look at Blink vs Ring: which Amazon security camera system is best? as well as our guide to the best camera for car photography, and not forgetting the best doorbell cameras on the market.

Life for the visually impaired poses incredible challenges, but today we possess incredible technology that enables us to overcome them like never before. And a new pair of smart glasses could very well change the lives of those who suffer from impaired vision.

Global technology giant Panasonic has partnered with Barcelona-based start-up, Biel, and at CES 2023 the two companies unveiled a pair of 'life-changing' smart glasses for aiding in mobility for visually impaired individuals.

• These are the best camera glasses

The joint venture harnesses Panasonic's imaging innovation, in the form of its 5.2K HDR-capable VR goggles, and combines it with Biel Glasses' artificial intelligence technology for users with low vision capabilities.

The aim of the technology is to help reduce mobility issues caused by impaired vision, specifically peripheral vision loss – which is known to many people as tunnel vision – that affects sufferers of conditions including glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa.

The new smart glasses enable users to receive feedback about obstacles and other hazards, using the latest in AI and robotics technologies developed by Biel Glasses, allowing visually impaired users to move around safely, independently, and with more confidence.

Biel Glasses is a start-up founded in Barcelona in 2017, by a doctor and engineer, and named for their son Biel, who was born with low vision. It has been working on AI and robotics solutions for people affected by vision problems, and this is the first time it has partnered with a major hardware company to bring its technology into the hands of users.

Biel Glasses' cameras and sensors can detect hazards, such as obstacles, steps, and holes, all in real-time. The glasses then relay these messages back to the user on the inbuilt μOLED display panels using graphical indications that have been adapted to the individual user's specific condition and needs for their remaining vision including zoom, adaptation to lighting, and contrast enhancement. 

It is very interesting to see Panasonic working on technology around smart wearables, AR, and VR. We hope that these glasses aren't the last wearable creation that comes out of Panasonic's R&D department, and we're very excited to see what the manufacturer is working on next as VR adoption starts to really ramp up.

Check out all the latest announcements from CES 2023 here. 

For more on Panasonic, read our guides to the best Pansonic camera, the best micro four-thirds lenses, and the best L-Mount lenses.

Autel Robotics has announced its new enterprise drone the EVO MAX 4T at CES 2023 in Las Vegas. The drone features a multi-camera hybrid zoom camera with 10x optical and 160x digital, 4K video and a thermal camera. It also includes a laser range finder, autonomous flight tech, omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, and technology to supress radio interference.

Known for its high-vis color scheme, Autel Robotics has always lent to commercial operations and this drone clearly targets that market. The orange is more subtle in Autel’s latest, but it’s there on the fold-out arms of the 1500g airframe (with an 8070mAh hot-swappable battery inside). It looks like DJI’s new Mavic 3 Enterprise series already has something to worry about.

The Autel EVO MAX 4T's camera array is made up of a 48MP half-inch CMOS sensor, a 50MP wide-angle camera with 1/1.28-inch CMOS, and a 640x512 resolution thermal imaging camera with up to 16x digital zoom on offer. The zoom camera – with up to 10x optical zoom – has an 8K sensor. Images from the cameras can be seen on a multi-channel display, so optical and thermal video appears next to a map view.

Inspectors will be able to use the laser rangefinder to take measurements up to 1.2km (3/4 mile) with an accuracy of ±1m (3ft), and the up-to 160x hybrid zoom to record images. The transmission range is up to 20km (12.4 miles), and it has a flight time of 42 minutes. Autel SkyLink 3.0 offers 1080p 60fps live footage.

The drone heralds new obstacle avoidance (Autel is calling it “720˚”) with re-routing (similar to that we’ve seen on DJI drones) and a return-to-home which doesn’t depend on GPS. As well as binocular vision sensors the autonomy engine can call upon millimetre-wave radar, which works better in low-light and rain. The drone also sports an IP43 rating, meaning it can handle water falling on it.

Master of the airwaves

The Autel EVO 4T Max is also introducing an industry-first – A-Mesh 1.0 – Autel Robotic’s new mesh networking technology. This enables the drone to communicate with others in the vicinity and enables drones to relay data if one should power down unexpectedly. This opens up the possibility of one pilot operating a fleet of drones and (with suitable permissions) uses beyond the line of the pilot’s sight (BVLOS).

As well as on drones, communications nodes could be placed on hills or elevated places to improve the coverage of an area. There is also the option of 4G LTE integration. In fact, Autel also highlighted the Dragonfish and EVO NEST infrastructure; an automated takeoff, landing and charging system for eVTOL which, they tell us, could operate with up to 75 miles between bases. (We recently covered a Skydio announcement in a similar vein). 

The Max 4T also includes new control modules and algorithms specifically designed to counter RFI, EMI and GPS spoofing, which they say “enables the EVO Max 4T to fly confidently near power lines, critical structures, and in complex areas.”

Data security was also a key part of Autel’s announcement, noting the AES 256 encryption on controllers and optional cloud servers and SkyCommand operations software.

New app platform

Commercial mission operators will get access to a newly rebuilt Autel Enterprise App which enables 2D and 3D mapping, waypoint missions, spiral search-and-rescue missions and more. These can be operated from the Autel Smart Controller V3 which has a 2000-nit 7.9-inch display and up to 4.5 hours battery.

Where does this fit?

When we looked ahead with our predictions for drones in 2023 we expected something from Autel at CES. We hand in mind an EVO III, but here we see that Autel is putting enterprise needs first – definitely on trend and a wise move considering DJI’s woes with US government blacklists. Autel has had some delays between CES announcements and availability in the past – we’ll keep you posted.

Also read: 

Best thermal drones
Best camera drones
Best travel drones
Best budget drones

Whether you shoot photos or videos, having a powerful laptop is essential for content creators who need to use powerful software such as Adobe Premiere or Capture One. 

Asus has always produced some of the best laptops for video editing and the best photo editing laptops, and now it is back to launch a new stable of laptops aimed at content creators. These are all powerful new portable beasts capable of editing photos and videos on the go. Asus is known for its OLED screens, and all the newly announced OLED laptops boast the latest OLED screen technology. OLED offers a big step up for creatives, with beautiful richer colors and deeper contrast, so this is a must-have for creatives to see their work in its full splendor.

Asus has something very exciting for this year's models, Asus Spacial Vision is its latest screen technology that offers full 3D images without any glasses or other wearables. This is made possible using a lenticular lens and advanced eye-tracking camera technology, enabling the display to weave distinct images for each eye, resulting in an autostereoscopic 3D image.

3D technology is rapidly growing in popularity as tech companies increasingly push AR and VR technology, such as Meta's big metaverse push or Canon's unusual dual fish-eye VR lens. This will allow creators to make and view objects instantly that can be viewed or interacted with in 3D.

ASUS ProArt Studiobook 16 3D OLED

ASUS ProArt Studiobook 16 3D OLED is the world's first 3D OLED mobile workstation. The laptop boasts a brand new glasses-free 3D OLED display enabling creators to create and view 3D photos, videos, and other applications, fully realized in three dimensions. Using ASUS Spatial Vision technology users can automatically convert 2D content to immersive 3D in real-time.

The laptop has a certified color accurate 3.2K 120Hz OLED screen that flips down to lie flat, offering 180-degree viewing angles. There are configuration options up to a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series GPU, up to 64 GB of memory, Thunderbolt 4 ports, and SSD storage, making this a very powerful creative machine.

The laptop comes in a Mineral Black finish and features Asus' combination of stylus-compatible haptic touchpad and dial rotary control system that enables price editing control. The design also allows the laptop screen to lie flat, offering any viewing angle up to 180°.

ASUS Vivobook Pro 16X 3D OLED

Asus has brought the latest 3D screen technology to its midrange Vivobook series in the ASUS Vivobook Pro 16X 3D OLED. Also featuring a 3D OLED 3.2K 120 Hz display including ASUS Spatial Vision technology you can view and create wearable-free 3D content. 

This powerful laptop is aimed at creators demanding the most power from their machines. With up to a 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, 64 GB DDR5 RAM,  NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 graphics, super-fast SSDs, and an overhauled ASUS IceCool Pro cooling system, up to 150W of raw power can be utilized for editing image, video, and 3D content.

Vivobook Pro 16X 3D OLED is also available with a 2D OLED screen for those creatives that want a powerful machine, but don't require 3D.

ASUS Zenbook Pro 16X OLED

ASUS Zenbook Pro 16X OLED is Asus' latest mobile workstation, featuring the unique design of its raised keyboard, which Asus calls Active Aerodynamic System Ultra (AAS Ultra), for more comfortable typing and better laptop cooling. The keyboard also has an innovative lighting system that offers guided interactivity features. As well as this, the laptop features Asus' dial allowing precise editing features in apps such as the Adobe suite of software.

In terms of specifications, the ASUS Zenbook Pro 16X OLED has a 16:10 3.2K 120Hz OLED HDR NanoEdge touchscreen, up to 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13905H processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series GPU, and 32 GB of fast LPDDR5X DRAM. 

Asus has partnered up with Intel to produce a unique chip for this laptop, the ASUS Supernova System-on-Module (SoM) design. This new design allows Asus to reduce the motherboard area by 38%, allowing more space for graphics cards and components including an enhanced cooling system, allowing the laptop to run at up to 155W. This allows content creators to run the Zenbook Pro 16X harder and for longer without it slowing down.

ASUS Zenbook Pro 14 OLED

ASUS Zenbook Pro 14 OLED is aimed at creators who want to be able to power through editing while keeping their laptop light and easy to travel with, offering WiFi 6E and a 76Wh battery.

Weighing in at 1.65 kg and measuring under 1.8 cm thick, the Zenbook Pro 14 OLED offers a light and compact chassis, but still packs in the power with up to the latest 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900H processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series GPU,  16 GB of speedy DDR5 RAM, and a 2 TB SSD.

The screen is the star of the show for creatives, offering a 2.8K 120 Hz OLED NanoEdge Dolby Vision display, Asus premises jaw-dropping detail, super-smooth motion, and ultra-vivid colors. The screen is also Pantone Validated for color accuracy and has a cinema-grade 100% DCI-P3 gamut, so you can be confident that whatever you are editing will be able to be viewed in the perfect color.

Furthermore, the Zenbook Pro 14 OLED includes the ASUS DialPad for precise editing control and support for using the optional ASUS Pen.

Check out all the latest announcements from CES 2023. You can also read our guides for the best laptops for video editing, the best photo-editing laptops, best monitors for photo editing.

French smart telescope-maker Unistellar has used CES 2023 to announce and show off its eVscope eQuinox 2 smart telescope – the follow-up to 2021’s impressive eVscope eQuinox. Selling for US$2,499/£2,199, it’s the company’s most affordable model yet in a line-up that also includes the Unistellar eVscope 2. 

Read: Best smart telescope

What sets apart eQuinox 2 from eVscope 2 – and, indeed, from almost every other telescope on sale – is its lack of an eyepiece. A 4.5-inch/114mm reflector telescope with a focal length of 450mm, focal ratio of f/4 and 50x magnification, like its stable-mates the eQuinox 2 is more an autonomous astrophotography rig than a backyard telescope. 

It’s inspired by how professional telescopes on mountaintops work; inside is a Sony CMOS image sensor that uses Unistellar’s ‘Enhanced Vision’ technology’ intelligent image processing, live-stacking long-exposures of deep-sky objects it’s tracking and displaying them on the company’s smartphone/tablet app. Unistellar also tells us that its partnership with NASA will soon permit any eQuinox 2 to be used to search for distant exoplanets around other stars. 

On this new version, the image sensor is upgraded from a Sony IMX224 to a Sony IMX347, which increases the resolution of its images from 4.8 megapixels to 6.2 megapixels, an increase of 27%. The eQuinox 2 also brings a new field of view, offering 34x47 arcminutes compared to the original product’s narrower 27x37 arcminutes. Crucially, that means the Moon now fits into its field of view. Though eQuinox 2 isn’t primed for observing our natural satellite, Unistellar tells us that a future firmware update will bring it into sharp focus. The telescope weighs 9kg with its motorized Alt-Azimuth mount and 11-hour rechargeable battery; it has 64GB of built-in storage.

The eQuinox 2’s images will also benefit from advances in machine learning, not only in terms of contrast and color, but also the removal of the effects of light pollution – perhaps the most impressive benefit of smart telescopes. Here ‘Smart Light Pollution Reduction’ digitally removes skyglow to allow people in heavily urban settings to view deep-sky objects. 

However, perhaps the biggest change is what the eQuinox 2 is designed to observe. Once restricted to long exposure observations of galaxies, nebulae and stars, a new firmware addition to its ‘Enhanced Vision’ technology makes it possible to use eQuinox 2 to study planets – chiefly Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars. That will be done using a technique called ‘lucky imaging’ to help overcome Earth’s turbulent atmosphere, which plays havoc with planetary photography. Often used by astrophotographers, ‘lucky imaging’ refers to the practice of taking a succession of short exposures of these bright objects in the hope that there will be a gap in turbulence when the ‘seeing’ is perfect.

“Thanks to its state-of-the-art innovations and its smart design choices, we are making space within reach from anywhere, even from light-polluted cities,” said Laurent Marfisi, co-founder and CEO of Unistellar. “Now, everyone from novice stargazers to amateur astronomers can enjoy stunning clarity, color, and hard-to-see detail like the striking colors of the Dumbbell Nebula.”

Pre-sales for the eQuinox 2 are open with the product available from mid-February 2023.

Read more: 

Best smart telescope

Unistellar eQuinox smart telescope review

Unistellar eVscope 2 smart telescope review

Vaonis Stellina smart telescope review

Vaonis Vespera smart telescope review

The best telescopes

The best camera for astrophotography

The best CCD cameras for astrophotography

The best lenses for astrophotography

The best light pollution filters

CES 2023, the world's biggest technology event, is in full flow this week – and it's already a big one for cameras and imaging. 

As is tradition (aside from the pandemic-induced blip in 2021), CES 2023 hails from Las Vegas, Nevada, and runs from January 05-08. Over 3,100 exhibitors will be at the show, including the biggest technology giants in the world such as Google and Microsoft. 

Most relevant for us, however, are the giants of the imaging world that will be in attendance: Sony, Canon, Nikon and Panasonic. Although CES 2023 is a general technology event, not a photography or videography specific one, it has been a great launchpad for cameras in the past, so we could see some exciting announcements.

You can find out full information on the show at the CES website. For now, here's what we're excited about and what we expect to see…

When is CES 2023?

CES 2023 is taking place right now! Hailing from its traditional home of Las Vegas, Nevada, it runs from Thursday January 05 to Sunday January 08. 

While the event has returned, post pandemic, to its usual home at the Las Vegas Convention Center, it will also host a digital component for those wishing to attend online. All the details are on the CES website.

What's been announced during CES 2023?

Panasonic S5II & S5IIx

With the apparent imminent announcement of the Panasonic S5II and Panasonic S5IIx, it's almost certain that these new full-frame mirrorless cameras will make their public debut in Las Vegas.

The big selling point of these successors to the popular Panasonic S5 is that they will be the manufacturer's first ever cameras featuring phase detect autofocus – replacing the much-maligned DFD (Depth from Defocus) contrast detect system that has long been the Achilles heel of Panasonic cameras. 

Both bodies will feature a 24.2MP sensor capable of up to 6K 30p video, with the selling point of the S5IIx being support for Apple ProRes and IP streaming.

Nikon Z 85mm f/1.2 S

The announcement of the Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.2 S adds one of the most crucial tools in the pro photographer's arsenal to the Z mount. Sure to be one of the best lenses for portraits, this fast mid-telephoto prime lens promises superior rendering performance, as well as great subject separation and beautiful bokeh. 

• Report: Nikon announces killer pro lens and pancake glass

Nikon Z 26mm f/2.8 pancake lens

The Nikon Z 26mm f/2.8 is the first true pancake lens for the Z system (aside from the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm zoom lens, which is quite a niche kit lens for Nikon's APS-C mirrorless bodies). With its wide angle (which translates to 39mm on an APS-C camera) it should serve as a great knockabout lens for all-purpose street photography, landscapes and everyday shooting.

• Report: Nikon announces killer pro lens and pancake glass

Panasonic x Biel Smart Glasses

These 'life-changing' smart glasses aid mobility for visually impaired individuals, pairing Panasonic's 5.2K HDR-capable VR goggles with Biel Glasses' AI technology for users with low vision capabilities. The aim is to help reduce mobility issues caused by impaired vision, specifically peripheral vision loss (to most of us known as tunnel vision) affecting suffers of conditions including glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa.

The new smart glasses enable users to receive feedback about obstacles and other hazards using the latest in AI and robotics technologies, empowering visually impaired users to move around safely, independently, and with more confidence.

• Panasonic announces 'life changing' smart glasses

Emeet StreamCam One

Meeting camera specialist Emeet is launching its first ever streaming camera, suitable for platforms including Facebook Live, Twitch, YouTube Live, Twitter and Linkedin. Up to three cameras can be daisy chained to deliver different angles simultaneously. 

These all-in-one, one-click streaming cameras feature an integrated wireless microphone, 1/2.8" Sony image sensor and 1080p 30fps HDR video. 

eVscope eQuinox 2

French smart telescope maker Unistellar has revealed the second-gen eVscope eQuinox smart telescope at CES 2023.

This is the follow-up to 2021’s impressive eVscope eQuinox. Selling for US$2,499 / £2,199, it’s the company’s most affordable model yet in a line-up that also includes the Unistellar eVscope 2.

What could we still see at CES 2023?

Canon EOS R8

Could we see the Canon EOS R8 teased, trailered or even announced at CES? While the camera is rumored to arrive in February, and debut at the CP+ show in Japan, there is an outside chance that we'll see it at CES, as Canon has some exciting things lined up for the show.

There aren't many details about the R8 just yet, but based on its name we can safely assume that it will sit between the Canon EOS R7 and Canon EOS R10 – which means it will likely feature an APS-C sensor. It is rumored to feature the same 24MP sensor as the R10, along with a new type of "flippy screen". 

Sony 20-70mm f/4.0 G Master lens

The rumored Sony 20-70mm f/4.0 G – the world's first standard zoom lens with 20mm at the wide end – could potentially be launched at CES. The latest rumors suggest that January 17 may be the launch date, but an announcement in Las Vegas is far from out of the question. 

Details on the lens are scant, other than it could possess a price tag twice the amount of the Zeiss 24-70mm f/4.0 – though for some photographers it could conceivably replace both the 16-35mm and 24-70mm trinity lens. 

Today is the last day of CES 2022, the super show that marks the official start of the new technology season for 2022. 

The world's biggest tech event has returned to a physical venue this year, taking place live on the show floor in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA for one day shorter than usual – though a digital and on-demand version of the show will once again be taking place (Full information can be found on the CES website). 

CES 2021 was a purely digital event, following the last physical show in 2020 where 170,000 visitors crowded the show floors. COVID protocols and travel restrictions will no doubt make it a much quieter in-person event this year, so the online component will be a major part of the show.

Over 2,200 exhibitors are exhibiting at the event, including some of the biggest players in imaging – namely Canon, Sony, Panasonic and Samsung. While it's not a photography or videography specific show, it has been a great launchpad for cameras in the past, so we could see some exciting announcements…

Announced at CES 2022

Canon Komoko

Canon has debuted a new virtual reality video system named Kokomo, which enables users to make face-to-face, real-time "ImmersiveCall" video calls in an experiential 3D environment. The still in-development software is described by Canon as an "exciting new way of connecting" and "an innovation in virtual reality that combines the 3D experience of beautiful and life-like VR destinations with video calling.

The system will require a VR headset, and will be powered by Canon cameras along with a newly designed app for your smartphone. As you might expect, the system will ultimately accommodate the innovative Canon RF 5.2mm f/2.8L Dual Fisheye Lens – a specifically 3D optic designed to deliver immersive 8K VR content for the Canon EOS R5.

• Make face-to-face calls in virtual reality, thanks to new Canon camera app

Sony Bravia Cam

Remember Kinect, the gesture- and audio-control device released by Microsoft for the Xbox 360 and Xbox One games consoles? Well, Sony has aped the idea – but released it for its range of Bravia TV sets, rather than PlayStation consoles.

The Bravia Cam enables gesture-based controls, adjusts the surround sound depending on where you're sitting on the couch, enables you to make video calls, and even shouts at you if you're sat too close to the TV. It's admittedly not the kind of camera we were expecting from Sony at CES, but it's still a neat idea.

• Sony launched a camera at CES – but it's not what you'd expect

Skydio 2+

The revised Skydio 2+ boasts improved 5GHz radio for a range of up to 3.7 miles and batteries lasting up to 27 minutes flight time. The key improvements, though, are to the software, most notably the Skydio KeyFrame tool, which enables a hybrid of the firm’s well-known subject tracking abilities with a flight path set out using points in three-dimensional space.

Don't expect an all-new airframe or camera, though; the blue-and-black shell and six autonomy obstacle avoidance cameras are all the same (each is a 4K CMOS, building a 1-million point-per-second 3D world). In terms of video quality, the retained 1 / 2.3” 12.3MP CMOS has 4056 x 3040 pixels, meaning the drone is far better suited to 4K60 HDR video than capturing high-res stills (though it can capture RAW). The 20mm EFL lens with electronic shutter is the same as the Skydio 2 and video is captured at 100 Mbps to a UHS Class 3 Micro SD.  

• Skydio 2+ drone takes off with extended range and creative control

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G

The newest member of the S21 series, which features a Snapdragon 888 chip and some of the most-loved aspects of the Samsung Galaxy S21, has an RRP of $699.95 / £699 / AU$999 (128GB) and $769.99 / £749 / AU$1,099 (256GB) and goes on sale 11 January.

Samsung has opted for the “If it ain't broke, don't fix it” way of thinking for the FE’s camera system, which features the same excellent setup as the S21, but with a few improvements, like a new Night Mode setting and a better selfie experience, thanks to the S21 FE’s advanced 32MP front camera. There’s also Dual Recording, which enables users to capture views from both lenses at the same time. As well as the 32MP selfie camera, the smartphone features a 12MP f/2.2 ultrawide, 12MP 1/1.76-inch f/1.8 main camera with OIS, and an 8MP f/2.4 stabilized 3x telephoto. 

• Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G phone with Snapdragon 888 on sale next week!

What to expect at CES 2022

As the world's biggest technology expo, we can expect all kinds of fantastic tech breakthroughs to appear. Last year, for example, Canon used technology straight out of The Matrix to create a 100-camera 4K Bullet Time setup!

So what can we realistically expect? Here's what might be on the docket…

Panasonic 8K cameras

After a protracted development, we might be ready to see a development announcement for Panasonic's line of consumer 8K cameras. Last year the manufacturer launched the Panasonic AK-SHB800GJ / AK-SHB800PSJ multi-purpose ROI (region of interest) camera, intended for broadcast use. 

Released in time for the scheduled 2020 Olympics, this full-frame 8K camera is capable of 4 simultaneous 1080p feeds, enabling the user to punch into a large 8K frame and effectively crop 4 separate camera feeds. However, Panasonic has stated that it doesn't anticipate a consumer 8K camera until the 2022 Winter Olympics.

Still, with the Canon EOS R5 already delivering 8K to the masses, the Sony A9S rumored to be next to do so, and the Sharp 8K Video Camera supposedly still on the way, we can see Panasonic at least unveiling details of its 8K plans ahead of time.

Panasonic GH6

Perhaps a little bit of a long shot, since Panasonic usually focuses on broader consumer electronics at CES. However, with the manufacturer widely expected to reveal the Panasonic GH6 this year, it would certainly make a big splash on the virtual stage. 

Very little is known about the GH6, though a popular rumor is that it could feature the 41MP Sony IMX594CQR image sensor – which would shatter the current 20MP ceiling that currently sits above Micro Four Thirds cameras. We can also expect that, whatever the pixel count of the hybrid-focused GH6, there will be a lower resolution Panasonic GH6S intended purely for video. 

Sharp 8K Video Camera

So, this is a picture of the Sharp 8K Video Camera that we took at CES… in 2019. Despite repeated reassurances that it would appear in 2020, the camera was conspicuous by its absence in anything but the most abstract form – such as a throwaway appearance in a photo on the Sharp website in December. 

Will we see the 8K 30p body, with a 33MP 16:9 Micro Four Thirds sensor and 5-inch touchscreen, at CES 2021? Sharp is sharing a stand with Toshiba audio, so there's a chance that the product will be on display. If it's not, it probably doesn't bode well for what was the first 8K consumer camera to be announced by any manufacturer.

Read more: 

Best Canon camera
Best Sony camera
Best Panasonic camera
Best camera drone

After going quiet for the second half of 2019, the Sharp 8K Video Camera (still without a proper name) did indeed resurface at CES in Las Vegas, where it was confirmed that the camera will launch in Japan later this year – and its sub-$4,000 price tag remains “very achievable”.

The Sharp 8K camera is capable of 8K up to 30 frames per second, and 4K and 1080p up to 60 frames per second, in 10-bit at up to 200Mbps. It employs a Micro Four Thirds mount and sensor, with a 5.5-inch touchscreen for primarily touch-based input (with three customizable function buttons and two standard buttons), and makes use of SD memory cards.

“Just to review some basic specs on the camera: it’s an 8K camera, we can record now in 8K, 4K or HD. In 8K we can record up to 30p, in 4K or HD 60p, all up to 200 megabits per second at 10-bit,” Sharp manager Cliff Quiroga told Alan Halfhill at Personal View (via 43 Rumors).

The prototype that was shown early last year, which barely had its user interface (UI) in place, was only shooting 8-bit video. So the upgrade to 10-bit shooting at 200Mbps is a big deal, and is likely one of the reasons that the camera was delayed a year.

Other reasons for the delay no doubt include a couple of hardware revisions, notably including the change from a Mini HDMI to a full-size HDMI connection. “We still have the mini XLR input, here on the side, and now we’ve moved to a full HDMI out,” confirmed Quiroga, pointing out the ultra-crisp picture being outputted to a Sharp 8K television.

Despite such changes, the much-discussed price point – which will likely make or break the Sharp 8K Video Camera – is still targeted at under $4,000 (£3,085 / AU$5,804). “We’re still targeting under $4,000 for this, we still think that’s very achievable.”

The camera is tentatively set for release in Japan in the latter end of 2020, arriving in North America shortly therefter. “Second half for Japan will be first, and then hopefully we’ll be rolling out shortly after that [in the US],” said Quiroga, noting that early Japanese production samples could be ready in time for the NAB show in Las Vegas in April.

Read more: 

What is 8K? And what does it mean to photographers and videomakers?
The best cinema cameras
The best 4K cameras for filmmaking
Sharp officially joins Micro Four Thirds with Olympus and Panasonic
The best Micro Four Thirds lenses for your Olympus or Panasonic camera

CES 2020, the technology trade super show and the first major event of 2020, is now in the history books. Over 170,000 visitors are estimated to have piled into the cavernous-yet-crammed exhibition halls in Las Vegas, soaking up all the bleeding-edge tech that the electronics industry has to offer. 

While it's a show where you're far more likely to see robotics and televisions than cameras and imaging gear, CES has become an increasingly important event for cameraphiles and photography tech heads.

So, now that the show is all packed down and everyone is recovering from their afterparty hangovers, what were the things that impressed us the most? These are the 10 products we loved the most at CES 2020…

1) Canon EOS-1D X Mark III next-gen flagship

Canon has officially announced full details of the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, its latest flagship camera aimed at professional sports and wildlife photographers, as well as photojournalists working in the field.

Our Canon EOS-1D X Mark III review covers its 20.1MP image sensor and radical new autofocus system, which makes the camera a true hybrid of mirrorless and DSLR technology that enables photographers to get the best of both worlds. Combined with 5.5K internal 12-bit RAW video, a game-changing new Smart Controller, support for HDR stills and video standards plus CFexpress support, it is in many ways the camera of the future. 

While it may "only" pack a 20.1MP sensor – which is less than both the Sony A9 II and even the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II – Canon claims that the camera is capable of sharpness and resolution equal to a 24MP pro sensor. 

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III will be available from the end of February for $6,499/£6,499. Aware that CFexpress cards are currently tricky to come by, the Canon is also partnering with manufacturers to offer a bundle including a card and reader, which will determine the final release date. 

• Canon also launched a Photo Culling app at CES, that uses AI to find the best shots from a shoot to cut down on editing time when using Lightroom.

2) Nikon D780 hybrid DSLR / mirrorless

The Nikon D750 has been one of Nikon’s long-running DSLR success stories, with its affordable price point (and getting cheaper over time), very good all-round image quality from its 24-megapixel full frame sensor and chunky but compact (for a DSLR) styling. For first time full frame camera users, it's one of the best DSLRs currently available. The new Nikon D780 offers the same resolution and a very similar design, but it joins the D750 in the Nikon range as a more advanced alternative – it doesn’t replace it.

What Nikon has done is to effectively take the sensor, AF technology and processing power of the Nikon mirrorless cameras, in this case the Z 6, and fit it to a DSLR body. You still have an optical viewfinder, and while you’re using it you get the same 51-point dedicated phase detection AF sensor used for so long (and to such good effect) in Nikon cameras. The live view experience, however, is transformed. With the on-sensor phase-detection AF of the Nikon Z 6, the D780 will offer much faster live view AF, with 273 AF points and eye detection.

Nikon says the new D780 will go on sale in early spring 2020 (not long to wait, then!). The D780 is expected to sell for $2,299/£2,199 and bought as a kit with a Nikon 24-120mm standard zoom, the price will be $2,799/£2,619. It is considerably more expensive than the current Nikon D750, but the D780 is also considerably more powerful.

3) Panasonic's 4K 60p camcorders

If the Panasonic S1H isn't a pure enough video device for you, the manufacturer announced a trio of dedicated 4K 60fps camcorders. The HC-X1500, HC-X2000 and AC-CX10 are among the smallest and lightest in the industry, packing 4:2:2 10-bit internal recording, 24x optical zoom (25-600mm), 32x i.ZOOM in 4K (or 48x zoom in 1080p), 120fps super slow-mo in 1080p, hybrid image stabilization, two manual rings, ND filter, built-in LED video light, and 24-bit high resolution linear PCM audio.

The built-in Wi-Fi also supports HD Live Streaming without the need for any additional equipment, making the trio perfect for live events coverage. All three cameras will be available in late March. 

4) Autel Evo II 8K, 48MP drone

The Autel Evo II is a collapsible camera drone with truly jaw-dropping specs, offering monster performance for both video and stills. Capable of recording 8K video and capturing 48-megapixel images (with 8GB of internal storage to back up its SD card slot), the drone has an impressive 40-minute flight time and weighs in at 1,127g. 

If you're after superior image quality and better performance in lower light conditions, the Autel Evo II Pro features a larger one-inch sensor (four times larger than the 1/2 in sensor in the standard model), capable of 6K video resolution and 20-megapixel images. 

And if you really want to go high tech, the Autel Evo II Dual also incorporates a thermal imaging camera alongside the standard 8K 48MP camera. All three drones are in production, but no price or release has yet been announced. 

5) Sony Vision-S car with time-of-flight cameras

Everybody was disappointed that 2020 didn't deliver the flying cars that all those sci-fi movies promised, but Sony has unveiled a concept car capable of (time-of-)flight. The Sony Vision-S employs 33 CMOS image sensors and distance measurement technology to provide the ultimate in safety and comfort, featuring a time-of-flight in-cabin sensor that can detect and recognize people and objects inside the vehicle. 

Would we have preferred to see the Sony A7S III? Of course we would. However, Sony making in-roads into vehicular imaging is certainly a fascinating step for the manufacturer – even though the design is a little bit Tesla-esque (though at least Sony had the good sense not to rip off the Cybertruck design).

6) Nikon P950 with 83x optical zoom

Nikon has announced that it will be updating its popular P900 superzoom bridge camera with the brand new Nikon Coolpix P950. With specs promising to be perfect for wildlife, motorsport and aircraft photographers, this bridge camera might just catch your attention. New features include RAW shooting, 4K video, an external mic socket, and an accessory shoe. 

Boasting an impressive 83x optical zoom, the P950 has an equivalent focal length range of 24-2000mm (the same as on the P900). However, if you really want to get even closer, the 166x Dynamic Fine Zoom is able to digitally extend the upper limit to an amazing 4000mm. 

The Nikon Coolpix P950 will be available nationwide from early spring 2020 at an RRP of $799/£799, and will replace the existing P900.

7) SanDisk's record-breaking 8TB portable SSD

Not so long ago, portable SSDs topped out at 1TB – and such a capacity would cost you an arm and a leg (and most of your internal organs, too). Thankfully, Western Digital's SanDisk brand has revealed a prototype of a portable SSD packing a barely believable 8TB (EIGHT TERABYTES!) of storage capacity. To put this in context, it's enough space to save 280,000 30MB RAW photos, or around 280 hours of 4K video at 500MB per minute of footage.

The SanDisk 8TB SSD prototype connects to your computer via a super-fast 20Gbps USB interface, so you can be sure that even the largest files can be transferred as fast as possible. No word has yet been given on retail availability or pricing, but it's safe to assume that being first to market with such a high-capacity portable drive will result in an equally lofty price tag.

8) Nikon 120-300mm f/2.8's remarkable reach

The Nikon 120-300mm f/2.8 FL ED SR VR lens is designed for professional sports and wildlife photographers who need long range, a fast maximum aperture AND the flexibility of a zoom. 

The first two we’ve seen plenty of times before, but not very often the third. Nikon does already make an AF-S Nikkor 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR constant aperture telephoto zoom, but while it does offer longer focal lengths, it’s a stop slower at f/4 rather than f/2.8. This new lens slots in between this and the shorter 70-200mm f/2.8 that most sports shooters keep in their kit bag – and for sports pros offers more flexibility than a 300mm f/2.8.

The new 120-300mm f/2.8 will also be compatible with Nikon’s 1.4x and 2x teleconverters (to offer an effective 168-420mm f/4 lens or 240-600mm f/5.6 respectively. It goes on sale in early spring 2020 and will cost… wait for it… $9,499 / £9,499.

9) TCL's sub-$500 folding phone

Foldable phones aren't a new concept; the E-ink Polymer Vision Readius had a rollable screen all the way back in 2007, while Samsung made waves with its Youm concept phone in 2013. However, Chinese company TCL has accomplished something that Samsung, Huawei and Moto haven't: it has made the foldable phone affordable at under $500. 

The TCL folding smartphone is currently very much in the concept phase, and is a long way off from making it into the hands of consumers. However, the prospect of a folding phone for under $500 could cause enough shockwaves to affect the pricing structure of foldables – which would be most welcome, since the Samsung Galaxy currently costs $1,980 with the Huawei Mate X coming in at $2,400. 

10) Insta360 One R modular action camera

Why shouldn’t action cameras be modular? A brand known for 360 cameras, Insta360 has today announced full details of the Insta360 One R, an action camera described as ‘adaptive’ that comes with up to three interchangeable lens/sensor units – and one of them even has a 1-inch sensor developed with Leica.

Launched at CES 2020, the standard package is called the Insta360 One R Twin Edition, which comprises two interchangeable lens units for both 360º and 4K wide angle wide-angle shooting. It’s on sale from today for $479.99/£365.

However, a groundbreaking Insta360 One R 1-Inch Edition – co-engineered with Leica and capable of 5.3K capture – will also be available for $549.99/£456. A further option is the Insta360 One R 4K Edition, which comes with just the 4K lens, for $299.99/£228. 

Read more: 

Camera rumors for 2020: what cameras are coming, and what to look for in 2020
The best cameras for professionals in 2020: which pro camera system is best?
Smartphone news, camera phone leaks and mobile rumors

Not so long ago portable SSDs topped out at 1TB, and such a capacity would cost you an arm, leg, and most of your internal organs. But at CES 2020 Western Digital's SanDisk brand has revealed a prototype of a portable SSD packing a barely believable 8TB (terabytes!) of storage capacity. To put this in context, it's enough space to save 280,000 30MB raw photos, or around 280 hours of 4K video at 500MB per minute of footage.

The SanDisk 8TB SSD prototype connects to your computer via a super-fast 20Gbps USB interface, so you can be sure even the largest files can be transferred as fast as possible.

No word has yet been given on retail availability or pricing, but it's safe to assume that being first to market with such a high-capacity SSD will result in an equally lofty price tag.

• Read more: The best portable drives for photographers

SanDisk has also revealed a new 1TB Ultra Dual Drive Luxe USB Type-C thumb drive, set to hit stores in a couple of months. This ultra-compact portable storage is designed to fit on a keychain, with its all-metal exterior built to look good and survive daily abuse. The 1TB capacity is enough to store roughly 100,000 10MB JPEG images, or about 80 hours of 1080p video.

The dual connector interface maximizes the drive's versatility. It gives you a traditional USB Type-A plug that enables the drive to be inserted into older computers. But when you need to connect to newer laptops, as well as phones and tablets, the connector can be flipped to reveal a modern USB Type-C plug.

Read more

The best portable SSDs in 2020

The best portable hard drives for photographers

The best external desktop hard drives for photographers

The best memory card for your camera

If you like the ideas of using a pen display to produce hand-drawn illustrations, but have been put off by the price of some models, industry-leader Wacom may have the answer. The new Wacom One Creative Pen Display tablet launched at CES 2020 has been designed as a cost-effective 13" pen tablet for aspiring digital artists and content creators wanting to create fresh graphics, or to enhance photos and video with a more natural, ergonomic method of digital input.

• Read more: Best graphics tablets | Best Wacom tablets

The Wacom One Creative Pen Display’s pressure-sensitive pen incorporates EMR (Electro Magnetic Resonance) technology, meaning it doesn't require a battery or any recharging. The 1920 x 1080 Full HD color display offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, 72 per-cent coverage of the NTSC color space and is finished with an anti-glare film. There are also foldable legs built into the chassis, helping you to set a more comfortable working position.

Wacom One Creative Pen Display is compatible with Windows and Mac, along with Android devices, enabling you to use your phone as the host device instead of a computer. It can be used with several third-party pens from manufacturers such as Lamy, Samsung and Staedtler.

Bundled with each Wacom One Creative Pen Display tablet is a six-month free trail of Clip Studio Paint Pro from Celsys; a powerful, easy-to-use drawing application for comic and manga creation. You also get Wacom’s own Bamboo Paper app for note-taking and sketching. The Wacom One also opens up all the pen-enabled features in Windows 10 and Mac OSX.

Wacom One is available now in the US from B&H, priced at $399.95 and can be purchased from Wex Photo Video in the UK for £359.

Read more

Best photo editing tools and accessories in 2020
Best monitors for photo editing and photographers in 2020
Best tablets for photo editing and photographers in 2020

Foldable phones aren't a new concept. The E-ink Polymer Vision Readius had a rollable screen all the way back in 2007, while Samsung made waves with its Youm concept phone in 2013. However, Chinese company TCL has accomplished something that Samsung, Huawei and Moto haven't. It's made the foldable phone affordable at under $500. 

There is one small caveat - like many of the products announced at CES 2020, the TCL foldable phone isn't yet available for consumer consumption and is currently functioning as a concept phone. However, that doesn't mean that it doesn't have the potential to disrupt the foldable phone market.

Read more: Best budget camera phone

Our sister website Tech Radar explains how TCL's strategy appears to work. "The TCL 10 5G for under $500 sounds surprising, but it's not – it's ripped from TCL's TV playbook. The critically acclaimed TCL Roku TV 6 Series is a high-end 4KTV that competes with normally expensive Samsung, LG, and Sony TVs at a fraction of the price. This has caused TCL's rivals to either price drop their sets or make cheaper variants.

That's exactly what the TCL foldable phone can do: introduce more competition. It can offer an alternative to the Samsung Galaxy Fold, Huawei Mate X and Moto Razr, but it can also put pressure on Samsung and others to compete on price."

The Samsung Galaxy Fold currently costs an eye-watering $1,980, which is twice the price of most of the best camera phones you can currently buy. Meanwhile the Huawei Mate X will be released in limited numbers for a staggering $2,400. If TCL's budget foldable phone will help to nudge these prices down, consumers will be the ones to benefit.

No matter whether you're a fan of foldable phones or not, you can't deny that they seem to be here to stay. We can't wait to see how this technology advances in the future. In the meantime, keep up to date with all of our CES 2020 coverage for more exciting tech news.

Read more

Best camera phone: which is the best smartphone for photography?
Best iPhone camera for photography: from the iPhone 7 Plus to 11 Pro
Best phone cases: protect your camera phone in style
Best flip phones

It is 10 years since the first ready-to-fry drone was launched. In January 2010 the Burj Khalifa (still the world's tallest building) was officially opened. The same week French tech firm Parrot reached for the sky in an entirely different way, announcing the A.R.Drone to the world at CES Las Vegas. This first mass-market drone certainly grabbed attention, uniquely bringing the fast-growing worlds of smart phones, accelerometer-driven tech and geek-chic into a single package.

As 2020 gets underway, it’s a good time to look back on what that flying novelty heralded. That year much of the excitement at the show was about chunky tablets being shown (Apple’s iPad was still three months in the future), and visitors were still impressed by large flat-screen TVs offering 1080p. This year it’s a safe bet that thin TVs will still occupy a lot of the Las Vegas convention centre, but the consumer drone world will likely look very different. 

This list represents the key jumps from that all important starting point back in January 2101…

1: Parrot A.R. Drone

Demonstrated at CES, but not on sale until nearer the end of the year, the AR.Drone was seen as gaming technology; the AR standing for Augmented Reality. That augmentation took place in the virtual world inside the drone’s iPhone app, in itself a relatively new thing (the App Store opened in July 2008). The same cheap, tiny accelerometers which were arriving in smartphones, coupled with a downward-facing camera, provided the data needed for the Linux-based aircraft to steady itself and respond to commands from the iPhone via wi-fi. It came with a huge indoor hull, using polystyrene to shield users from the propellors, and an outdoor option. The later A.R.Drone 2, in 2012, changed little, but offered a plug-in GPS module (branded a ‘Flight Recorder’) which enabled waypoint programming as well as recording the 720P video.

1.5: ARDU Pilot APM

Not strictly a drone, so not one of our ten, but in the early stages many were building their own aircraft from kits of parts. The unifying element was the flight controller system, and one of the most popular – certainly the one with the longest legacy – was the ArduPilot APM, which is still around now. This little box is the computer that drives a drone – enthusiasts needed to add motors, motor controllers, batteries, and a radio receiver as a minimum. Optional extras, like GPS units, could be connected too and the firmware updated from simple software, and real-time telemetry could be sent back to a computer. A list of current Ardupilot-based devices is kept at the Ardupilot Org Wiki.

2:  DJI Phantom

The A.R. Drone attracted a great deal of attention, as much for its conceptual potential as anything else. The initial wave that followed it was driven by enthusiasts building their own aircraft from parts, and DJI had produced some of the most popular frame kits and flight control computers. The Phantom was, essentially, an assemblage of these parts in as consumer-friendly a case as was possible, and that kit-build background goes some way to explaining a frenetic pace of model updates early on. A well as some slightly clunky elements; there was an external wi-fi unit on the controller and antenna cables tucked into the drone legs easily got loose.

DJI quickly added their own camera and, by July 2014, the Phantom 2 Vision+ (the 5th iteration of the line) offered a built-in camera on a gimbal. Eager buyers were walked through the systems quirks on slick videos featuring Colin Guinn (the subject of much industry gossip in coming years), and it was quickly clear DJI’s choice to build in a camera and, soon after, a gimbal, turned out to be good ones; it made the Phantom a complete gadget, moving drones from geeky stores to mainstream retailers, and it’s no coincidence that an episode of South Park featured the creators own version of the Phantom.

• The best DJI drones right now

3: 3DR Solo

The talk of the town mid-decade was 3D Robotics, a company founded in 2009 by Chris Anderson, well known in Silicon Valley as editor of Wired magazine and author of the book The Long Tail. He joined forces with Mexican engineer Jordi Muñoz, who was active on the drone forums Anderson had established. The firm also snapped up Colin Guinn – from 2014 to 2016, at least – who played a big part in the Solo’s software offering, “productizing waypoint navigation” in his words. 3DR already had the strange-looking IRIS+ but the Solo was gunning for the consumer market, bringing slick design and a gimbal plus an LCD built into the controller, while retaining the benefits of Anderson’s open source software, including a ‘follow me’ mode (that tracked the remote).

Sadly for the American outfit, the initial model required consumers to supply their own GoPro, and even the image stabilizing gimbal was an optional extra – at launch only a fixed bracket was available, putting 3DR behind DJI (and with high pricing). The mood quickly soured in what was still a relatively small community, supply problems and bugs were costing 3DR while many started to feel they’d been swept up in a wave of uncritical commentary through Guinn & Anderson’s profile, and competitor DJI relentlessly updated the Phantom while 3DR handled customer issues. Despite everything, while the Solo’s story is a bit of a sad one, they led the way in terms of photographer-focused features using some level of auto pilot assistance.

4: DJI Inspire 

Having fought off the American upstart 3DR, the DJI Inspire was the Chinese firm’s play for more serious filmmakers who were finding the industry’s GoPro obsession somewhat limiting. Stability had been the first issue, but with 3-axis gimbals now the norm, consumer pricing targets limited the capabilities of the now-dominant Phantom series. Large professional aircraft able to hoist cameras existed, but were complex operations – the Inspire stepped into the middle, and made it look good. 

Arriving in late 2014, the design, like a Klingon Bird-of-Prey, took the key advantage of professional drones – motorized legs – and built it into the airframe. Once aloft, the system’s legs moved above the airframe, leaving the camera gimbal the option to rotate a full 360˚. That control could be handled by a second operator (with their own controller) using “Lightbridge” technology, just like a professional film unit. Then and now the shape-shifting design was awe-inspiring. The gimbal was removable, and at CES 2016 the system was updated to hoist a Micro Four thirds camera, so interchangeable lenses were now a possibility for a device which – while pricey – was as easy to operate as any other consumer drone (so long as you remembered to allow time to switch shape before landing!).

5: Parrot Bebop 2 FPV

While the market it created became ever more obsessed with video quality, Parrot looked to the fast-growing First Person View racing community for inspiration. The Bebop, and Bebop 2 remained lightweight with elements of polystyrene in their construction, and built on range-extended wi-fi control. Rather than the extra weight of a motorised gimbal, Parrot opted for fish-eye lens and image processing which wasn’t ever going to impress creatives, but was certainly adequate for fun-seekers. Adding ‘Cockpitglasses’ (into which you slipped your phone) provided a modestly priced way to get inside the aircraft which found a happy niche, and the HD recordings were still good enough for sharing. Even now, with the new Anafi FPV, only Parrot seem to have mastered the price-experience balance for goggles (though DJI have costlier options for those willing to pay).

6: PowerVision PowerEgg

For the most part, a remote controller with two bi-directional sticks based on the classic radio controller design has formed the basis of drone control. It’s a great system, intuitive, and adaptable (earlier drones, without automated hover, had controllers where the sticks didn’t spring to the centre, subtly reminding the pilot to concentrate on maintaining altitude). PowerVision, however, decided to try something very different, no doubt inspired by the success of the Nintendo Wii (and you can still buy it!).

Those looking for a different control experience could plug the ‘Maestro’ into the RC unit and hold it in one hand, like a base-less joystick. With in-built accelerometers, the device translated movement into left-right & near far motion, and used their thumbs to control altitude. A trigger operated the 4K camera, which, because it sat at the bottom of the folding egg, could rotate 360-degrees like that of the much-lauded DJI Inspire. What’s more, the design didn’t really need a case – once folded it was a perfect egg. Folding was cool, this was amazing, though sadly high prices, slow delivery and a limited marketing budget meant the drone never really broke out.

7: GoPro Karma

Given their prominence onboard drones – not just the early ‘consumer’ models, but the self-build racers too – it seemed inevitable that the 2002-founded action camera firm would want to get in on the market. What better way than to capture your action exploits than from the air above your surfboard? The Karma was a folding drone which, in a way, might be seen as a GoPro accessory. That meant that owners of the right GoPros would have seen it’s $799 launch price as quite reasonable, while otherwise it was in the same bracket as the higher-end Phantoms of its launch year, 2016. If you wanted 4K, pick the then-new GoPro 5. It also included the Karma Grip, allowing hand-held use of the gimbal (DJI were asking for $500 for something like it at the time), and included a monitor in the remote. Sadly for the Karma, announced around the same time was the much more compact DJI Mavic Pro, which offered 4K (limited to 24fps) and some collision sensing. The biggest nail in the coffin, though, was the 3-month long product recall that wiped out the 2016 holiday sales season. It is no longer supported, but can still be found.

• The best GoPro cameras in 2020

8: DJI Mavic Pro

The Mavic Pro brought one significant new feature that earns its place on this list. It also retained and refined nearly everything else the industry had achieved thus far (one-touch return to home, easy-to-use flight controls, and subject tracking) in a considerably more portable form. The real headline, though, was its collision avoidance system. By adding additional sensors at the front and a more powerful on-board processing system, the ‘copter was able to prevent itself from making head-on collisions. (DJI also somewhat over-sold this system, pointing to landing sensors as if they were revolutionary when even the AR.Drone had them.) Nevertheless the system captured customers’ imaginations, and consumers now expect to find more and more sensors – the Mavic 2 has sensors in every direction, and Mavic seems to have become the tag for DJI’s whole folding consumer drone range.

9: Skydio 2

While Silicon Valley’s previous swings at the sky have missed for one reason or another, we don’t yet know whether Skydio will be the third out. Like the Solo and Karma before it, this device puts usability – and the user – front and centre, building in an object tracking system with 45 megapixels worth of hull-based cameras. These feed to an a GPU-grade TX-2 processor capable of machine learning which, in essence, predicts the future (the subject’s movement and that of potentials obstacles), all while plotting a path at up to 36mph. This kind of technology is bound to play an increasing part in drone design, but the Skydio and Skydio 2 were the first to make it the core of the product. The first to be good enough.

10: DJI Mavic Mini

The Mavic Mini isn’t extraordinary on its own, save for one thing – it prioritizes current drone rules and regulations above all else in the design. It clearly meets price targets, minimum feature lists and so on, and it’s an amazing technical achievement, but by aiming to come in under 250g and thus avoid registration fees for consumers, it might well show us that, in the next decade, design will be less about innovating and more about meeting tighter regulations. Or at least to the fact that safety is now a key consideration in a way it simply wasn’t before. 

The future of drones

The Mavic Mini might point to the future of consumer drones now the regulators are beginning to catch up, but multicopter technology is going to be making a push into the wider aviation world, with larger aircraft – perhaps even drone-like taxis. In this sphere, regulation for manned or heavier aircraft was already a potential road block, but at the same time the pressure for sustainably powered air travel will encourage more and more experimentation with battery technology. If it does, we’ll owe it all to these drones.

Read more:
The best camera drones in 2020

Drone rules: what you need to know about drone registration and regulations

The best drone accessories

The annual IFA – Consumer Electronics Unlimited expo is heating up the streets of Berlin this week, with keynotes taking place on 04 and 05 September before the show opens its doors proper from 06-11 September.

Though it's not specifically a photography oriented event, some of the big players in imaging technology will be attending – the likes of Sony, Panasonic, Sharp and Honor/Huawei – so we expect some big showings and potential announcements!

What is IFA 2019?

Europe's biggest technology show, IFA is a bit like the annual CES event in Las Vegas, but with a distinctly German flavor. The show traces its roots to 1924 when it was just a humble radio expo, evidenced by the IFA's full name: Internationale Funkausstellung, "International Radio Exhibition".

Today it's one of the biggest consumer electronics conventions in the world, and we expect some serious new technology to be on show – particularly in the world of photography and imaging.

With everything from new image sensors to 8K video to the latest developments in 5G, there's plenty to get excited about. Here's what has been announced at the show already, followed by some educated guesses on things we'd be excited to see…

IFA 2019 announcements

Nikon D6

Okay, this one isn't technically an IFA 2019 announcement, since Nikon isn't actually exhibiting at the show. But Nikon did choose IFA press day to announce the arrival of  its new flagship DSLR, the Nikon D6.

There is not much detail in the announcement but the Nikon D6 rumors pack all manner of improvements, including a new sensor, in-body image stabilization inherited from the Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z7, as well as dual CFExpress slots – and, coincidentally enough, SanDisk CFExpress cards just so happened to go on sale this week. 

Also announced by NIkon at the same time is the development of a monster 120-300mm f/2.8 professional lens to work with the D6 and other Nikon DSLRs. And lest its mirrorless Z range be forgotten, Nikon also unveiled the full spec, details and price for the Nikon Z 24mm f/1.8 S prime lens.

Samsung Galaxy Fold

Samsung has revealed the Samsung Galaxy Fold… again. The new, non-breaking version of the troubled handset is available now in the manufacturer's home country of South Korea, with releases in "select" countries to follow. 

Its revised construction aside, the Samsung Galaxy Fold remains the same as last we saw it, right down to its Cosmos Black and Space Silver color options, and on paper at least could still be one of the best camera phones – especially with a 5G version in certain territories.

When folded, its 'cover camera' is a 10MP f/2.2 selfie camera. Unfolded, it boasts a dual-camera array with a 10MP f/2.2 sensor and an 8MP f/1.9 RGB depth camera. On the rear, meanwhile, the phone features a triple-camera setup with a 16MP f/2.2 ultra wide-angle, a 12MP f/1.5-2.4 wide-angle, and a 12MP f/2.4 telephoto camera.

Also on show is the new affordable 5G phone - the Samsung Galaxy A90 5G.

Kodak Smile Instant Classic Print

If looks could kill, the Kodak Smile Classic Instant Print would be culpable for murder. Its beauty isn't just skin deep, however – it features a pop-up viewfinder, a microSD card slot, Bluetooth connectivity and augmented reality functions. 

The Kodak Smile Classic Instant Print produces the largest prints in the company's instant range. Its 3.51 x 4.25-inch Kodak Zink Sticky-Backed Photo Paper prints from the camera after a picture is taken, and images can also be printed from your smartphone using the Kodak Instant Print Companion app. 

Available on both Android and iOS, the Print Companion app enables you to embed a 30-second video clip (with sound) from your media library – when you print it out, anyone with the Print Companion app will be able to view the video by holding their smartphone over the picture. Will this snazzy number be a contender for the best instant camera crown?

Huawei Mate 20 X 5G

The Huawei Mate 20 X 5G is a niche device for power-users after the biggest phone they can get. This suped-up 5G version of the Mate 20 X boasts a similar Leica triple lens system, but it’s an outrageous and immersive 7.2-inch OLED screen that really impresses.

It's a visually stunning device to behold. That’s purely because of its immense size and massive 7.2-inch screen. It’s a whopper. It’s also an OLED, and looks fantastic close-up, boasting lush color and deep black, though its resolution is merely 1080p. At least that should save on battery. 

When it comes to optics, there’s not much that’s new on the Mate 20 X, which uses – in Huawei’s own language – “tried and tested hardware”. It’s actually the same Leica three-lens camera set-up and CMOS sensor as found on the Huawei Mate 20 Pro, that being a primary 40MP camera, a 20MP wide-angle sensor and an 8MP telephoto sensor. 

Asus ROG Phone II

Designed as a gaming-oriented phone, the result is that the Asus ROG Phone II is an absolute powerhouse – including in the photography stakes. 

The device comes in two editions, Elite and Ultimate – and the latter is loaded up with a monstrous 1TB storage, supports up to 2Gbps mobile data download speeds, and packs a combined 85MPs across its front and rear cameras. 

Everything from the battery through to the screen experience and camera are flagship-grade. After our hands-on we can confirm that it’s big, it looks angry and it has specs and accessories like no other.

Sony Xperia 5

Sony's new flagship camera phone has unveiled with a triple camera array that takes advantage of the Eye AF system that we love so much on Sony cameras. The phone uses a weird 21:9 aspect ratio, that may well put some off. Check out our full Sony Xperia 5 hands-on review. 

Motorola One Zoom

We all knew it was coming. Recent weeks saw the launch of the Motorola One Action – complete a wide-angle video camera – and leaks were plenty about the launch of the brand's photography-centric smartphone way before it was officially announced at IFA 2019.

So why were we so excited to get up close to this 6.4-inch handset? A quad camera system and a massive 10x hybrid zoom, that's why, and all for a low price of just $449 (from motorola.com for AT&T or T-Mobile) or in the from £379 (only from Amazon and with the Alexa voice assistant integrated). 

Check out our hands-on Motorola One Action review to see what we made of this much-anticipated device!

FeiyuTech Qing

Gimbal specialists Feiyu Tech have been teasing that they will unveil the Qing at the show - a motorized pan/tilt head that can take the weight of a full-frame DSLR. The exciting bit here is the remote control that has a built-in LCD screen. The head was shown as a prototype at IBC earlier in the year, but we are promised full details at IFA - but you can watch the teaser video on YouTube now.

IFA 2019 rumors and predictions

Sigma fp

The Sigma fp (which apparently stands for "fortissimo pianissimo") the new camera will feature a 24.6-megapixel sensor and it will use a classic Bayer color filter array, not Sigma's own multi-layer Foveon technology as we had originally believed the company to be working on.

Designed to be the smallest and lightest full frame mirrorless camera ever, it will take interchangeable L-Mount lenses (including three new L-Mount lenseslaunched at the same time as the Sigma fp) and is designed to break the pattern of current camera design. Sigma's idea is "how a camera can be", not conforming to current categories and hierarchies. 

With the company exhibiting at IFA 2019, it seems a shoo-in that the Sigma fp will be there to play with. 

Sharp 8K Video Camera

One of the devices we were most excited to see at IFA 2019 is the Sharp 8K Video Camera, and we had hoped to get hands-on with at the show since Sharp has been very forthcoming in letting the press take the camera for a test drive. But sadly, the camerar was nowhere to be seen on their stand... even though they had a large area devoted to 8K, and were showing its humungous 120-inch 8K LCD TV

Boasting a breakthrough 33MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, a 5-inch(!) touchscreen and 10-bit 8K at 30 frames per second, this camera has serious potential for cinematographers – especially as it out-rezzes the recent pair of 6K cameras, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K and the Panasonic Lumix S1H.

We now hope that we will be able to get more details on this at IBC 2019, the huge broadcasting show which takes place in Amsterdam next week.

Sony A7S III

Sony has been blasting out new cameras recently, with the Sony A7R IV, Sony A6100 and Sony A6600 all being announced over the past few weeks – and all of these will no doubt be proudly on display in Berlin. 

• Hands on: Sony A6600 review

There was one camera, though, that was notable by its absence: the Sony A7S III. All signs still point towards this body being announced before the end of the year, and it seems to make perfect sense for the company to reveal it at IFA 2019 when the eyes of the tech world are squarely watching. 

Sony's video-oriented A7S II is dearly in need of an update, with its aging 12.2MP sensor looking pretty creaky compared to the cutting-edge 24.2MP Panasonic S1H and 33MP Sharp 8K Video Camera. 

And of course, with Sony about to go all-on on 8K throughout its line of TVs and electronics, it would be nice to see it crack the 8K barrier with the A7S III…

Huawei Mate 30 Pro

It's never a dull moment when Huawei is around. All eyes will be on the brand, sitting as it does at the center of the current Sino-American trade war. And we know that it will be revealing more about its Honor TV, a smart television with a pop-up webcam that's powered by Huawei's HarmonyOS. 

The manufacturer's bespoke operating system will certainly be a key talking point for the Huawei Mate 30 and Mate 30 Pro. The new camera phones are rumored to be launching without Google support, meaning that HarmonyOS might have to do a lot of heavy lifting.

The phones will feature a circular quad-camera array and an extreme waterfall display – we can't wait to see what kind of sensors it's packing!

We know that the Huawei Mate 30 will launch on 19 September in Munich, but Huawei did confirm that the camera phone will use its new Kirin 990 processor which promises better 5G functionality and lower noise in its photos.

Samsung Galaxy S11

Samsung should have a big showing at IFA 2019, as the company has been behind some enormous imaging innovations recently. 

If you've been keeping up with the latest smartphone news, you'll know that it has announced the Samsung Isocell Bright HMX 108-megapixel image sensor. We know that this sensor will make its debut in a 108MP Xiaomi Mi handset, which will have the power of a medium format camera phone. 

However, the Samsung Galaxy S11 is also anticipated to feature the new sensor. The South Korean giant usually announces the S line in January but, given the seismic developments in smartphones this year, we wouldn't rule out seeing the S11 make a surprise appearance in Berlin.

We'll be keeping this page updated with the latest news, announcements and hands-ons throughout the course of the show. So make sure to check back over the rest of the week to see everything that happens, as it happens, at IFA 2019! 

Read more:

Camera rumors 2019: what new cameras are coming out this year?
Smartphone news, camera phone leaks and mobile rumors

The Micro Four Thirds standard appeared to be in less than rude health last year, with Panasonic jumping to full-frame and Olympus not releasing a new product. The format's fortunes have had a shot in the arm this year, however, with Sharp officially joining the Micro Four Thirds System Standard Group. 

The NAB Show is taking place in Las Vegas this weekend, where it is expected that the Micro Four Thirds-powered Sharp 8K Video Camera will see its official reveal. In anticipation, Olympus announced that Sharp has become an official partner in the future of the format.

"Olympus Corporation and Panasonic Corporation jointly announced the Micro Four Thirds System standard in 2008 and have since been working together to promote the standard," says the Olympus statement. 

"We are pleased to announce that Sharp Corporation has recently declared their support for the Micro Four Thirds System standard and will be introducing products compliant with the standard."

See also: Best Panasonic camera in 2019

Sharp 8K Video Camera

While making no direct reference to the Sharp 8K Video Camera, the statement was sure to state the company's expertise in that specific area (make sure to check out our guide if you're wondering what is 8K and why is it the next big thing). 

"As the driving force behind 8K imaging technology and a product developer, Sharp Corporation now supports the Micro Four Thirds standard. In the future, Sharp will add Micro Four Thirds products to their line-up. The possibilities unique to a joint standard will expand the enjoyment of imaging further."

First shown as a "reference exhibit" at CES in January (which, as it happens, was also in Las Vegas), the Sharp 8K Video Camera was the first sub-$5,000 8K prosumer camera to be debuted and looks to be an exciting prospect for videographers.

Much like the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K,  it's an extremely compact device (thanks to its MFT innards) featuring image stabilization, 30fps shooting (with a target of 60fps) using the H.265 codec, and a huge 5-inch articulated touchscreen. 

We're looking forward to seeing the full specs (and a proper name) for the camera, as well as seeing what other products Sharp has in store for Micro Four Thirds. Keep an eye on the Sharp homepage for the latest from the company. 

Read more: 

Sharp 8K Video Camera: 33MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, 10-bit 8K at 30fps
What is 8K? And what does it mean to photographers and videomakers?
The best Micro Four Thirds lenses for your Olympus or Panasonic camera

Perhaps the most exciting news to come out of CES 2019 wasn't the camera releases, as there were relatively few, but a freak incident that may have broken a camera, and it was all down to driverless car technology.

At CES Jit Ray Chowdhury, himself an autonomous engineer, took a picture of an autonomous car using lidar technology with his Sony A7R II camera. 

After he took the image, he found that any photo he took after there were purple spots on the images. 

This was apparently caused by the lasers used in the lidar technology - the navigation system used by autonomous vehicles that maps out objects surrounding the vehicle (lidar is an acronym for light detection and ranging).

Chowdhury tweeted about the incident and spoke to ArsTechnica about it, noting: "I noticed that all my pictures were having that spot. I covered up the camera with the lens cap and the spots are there - it's burned into the sensor."

Laser quest

AEye, the company behind the lidar technology, has responded, with CEO Luis Dussan noting that while there's no harm to eyes, "cameras are up to 1000x more sensitive to lasers than eyeballs." 

Speaking about lasers in general, he explained: "Occasionally, this can cause thermal damage to a camera's focal plane array."

It's pretty clear that you should never point a camera at a laser, but in this case the laser was invisible to the human eye. 

• The best Sony A7R III deals in 2019 - you know, just in case. 

Drones have been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons recently, what with UK airports closing because of a number of drone-based incidents. 

Those who are dedicated to drone flying, however, won’t be deterred by such stories and if CES 2019 is anything to go by, the future of drones is looking rather rosy. 

A highlight of the show was the superb DJI Smart Controller. This drone controller is one of the most advanced we have seen and seems to be the perfect partner to the Mavic 2. 

• 10 amazing camera innovations you need to know about from CES 2019

The device has been equipped with a 5-inch touchscreen, which is just the thing for controlling your drone in the air. It links up with the drone using OcuSync 2.0.

The first thing of note about the screen is just how bright it is. Even with the stark lights of the show floor to contend with, the screen was brilliantly bright. DJI is claiming that the screen is around twice as bright as similar screens and we aren’t going to argue with that. 

The only drawback is the screen is just 1080p so don’t expect any 4K live streams just yet. 

But there is a 4K option on board - through the HDMI port you can playback 4K footage at 60fps.

The design is nice and intuitive. In the hand, the DJI Smart Controller is a solid thing. It’s pretty portable, too, with the added bonus of having detachable control sticks. 

The stuffiness of the convention center didn’t allow us to try out this specific spec, but DJI believes that controller will work in some rather extreme environments. It will still work and be nice and stable if you are flying the drone in-20°C to 40°C temperatures. 

The controller is also a handy place for coordinating your images and footage. Through the controller you can transfer your aerial photos and videos straight from the DJI Smart Controller to a phone or tablet, using the Go Share function on the DJI GO 4 app.

Other features on board include a mic and speaker which you can use for live streaming. DJI really wants you to be as social as much as you can with this device. 

It’s added something called SkyTalk to the controller, which can be used to share your drone flights on Facebook and Instagram. It’s also a handy editing tool where you can create and upload short videos of your endeavours nice and quickly.

All of this sounds like a massive battery sink and a claimed battery life of 2.5 hours does prove this - but it should be more than enough to keep your drone sky high.  

The DJI Smart Controller is available now and will costs $649 / £579. 

• The best camera drones around right now.