Cameras

5 facts about dual-camera smartphones

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It’s amazing how smartphones have become the breeding ground for the latest camera technology. Dual-camera setups, in particular, have raised phone photography to yet another level.

Like adding more processing cores to a phone’s chipset, the idea of having two cameras at once came from the need to push past the physical limits of a single module, and introduce a whole new world of features in the process.

Now that it’s becoming the norm, we have to sort out some facts and myths about the latest trend.

The dual-camera setup isn’t exactly new

It may only be taking off now, but dual-cam setups have been around for a long time. In fact, the LG Optimus 3D and HTC Evo 3D, which were the first smartphones to introduce the feature, came out way back in 2011.

dual-lenses-future-20161123-06

The first-ever dual-camera smartphone, LG Optimus 3D

Their implementations were different from what we’re experiencing today, however. Five years ago, 3D content was a thing, and both television and smartphone manufacturers produced compatible devices like the two aforementioned phones. Everyone eventually agreed that 3D technology was best left in the past, and the idea of having more than one camera on a handset took a backseat for several years.

Not all dual-cameras are the same

Even though brands advertise their phones as having double the number of cameras, you need to look a little closer at how the modules work in tandem.

One of the more popular executions is the Leica-infused Huawei P9. It uses a pair of color and monochrome image sensors to produce sharper photos with greater clarity when operating together. You can also choose to rely solely on the black-and-white sensor to create stunning imagery.

Huawei P9

The Leica-branded Huawei P9

Another well-designed implementation is on Apple’s iPhone 7 Plus. Its cameras have different focal lengths, meaning one has the usual wide-angle look while the other provides further zoom, so it’s like having a zoom lens sans the clunky mechanism.

LG’s flagship V20 and G5 smartphones have a similar style to Apple’s. The difference is in the length of the zooms, wherein there’s an ultra-wide-angle lens instead of a zoomed-in unit. This makes LG’s version better suited for landscape photography and large group pictures.

It’s not a gimmick or passing fad

Equipping two cameras addresses several limitations in smartphone photography, such as introducing optical zoom without adding bulk and improving image quality on already-tiny sensors.

In order to add camera functionality while keeping the frame as slim as possible, the only currently known solution is to add more modules side by side. If anything, we could be seeing more lenses on smartphones someday, and look back at twin setups as prehistoric tech.

More lenses doesn’t mean more expensive

It’s easy to associate such an innovation with high-end handsets, such as the $769 iPhone 7 Plus and $559 Huawei P9, but entry-level smartphones have been feeling the love, too.

Huawei P9 and iPhone 7 Plus

The Huawei P9 (left) and iPhone 7 Plus (right)

Huawei’s more budget-friendly Honor sub-brand released the dual-cam-equipped Honor 6X for only $150; before that, there was the US-bound Honor 8 retailing for $400. Chinese rival Xiaomi also offers a $225 Redmi Pro, which is the company’s first phone to have a dual-camera setup — even before the mighty Mi 5s Plus.

There’s more to improving image quality

On the topic of existing technologies, it’s important to note there are several other factors that contribute to image quality. For one, the size of the image sensor matters; a larger one can take in more light and may produce a shallower depth of field for creamier backgrounds behind subjects.

Another important element is aperture. By having a larger maximum lens opening, more light can pass through, and, in turn, enable you to have a higher shutter speed for capturing fast-moving objects without too much motion blur.

iPhone 7 Plus zoom

Real-time zooming with the iPhone 7 Plus

Finally, we have image stabilization. It comes in two forms: optical, which utilizes a physical mechanism to steady shots, and electronic, which uses software magic to predict shaky hand movements. When using either of the two, photos normally turn out a lot less blurry, as long as the subject stays in place.

With more and more smartphone manufacturers jumping on the bandwagon, we can’t wait to see what radical designs there’ll be next year.

[irp posts=”4954″ name=”Apple iPhone 7 loses to Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge in DxOMark camera test”]

 


This feature was produced in collaboration between GadgetMatch and Innity Philippines.

Cameras

New Insta360 X4 delivers 8K 360 videos

Welcome to the 8K 360 era

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Insta360 X4

Insta360 is redefining what action cameras are capable of with the introduction of the Insta360 X4. Insta360’s latest offering allows users to film 8K resolution 360-degree videos. In addition, it can record slow-motion 4K videos at up to 120fps.

As expected, the X4 retains Insta360’s “shoot first, point later” ability and invisible selfie stick effect. Moreover, it doubles as a traditional action camera with “flat” captures in Single-Lens mode at up to 4K at 60fps.

The Insta360 X4 is available for US$ 499.99/ PhP 30,990 on the official Insta360 store, Amazon, and other retailers.

Incredible third-person views at 8K

The 8K at 30fps resolution is the highest setting for a 360-degree action camera yet. With such high resolution, users can expect detailed and sharp videos even after reframing, or choosing which specific angle to include in the capture.

For slow-motion, users can now film 4K videos at 100fps for cinematic shots slowed down four times. Furthermore, the highest resolution for a 60fps 360-degree video is upgraded to 5.7K. You may also use the X4 to take stills, as it is capable of 72MP 360-degree photos.

Two cameras in one

Aside from its default 360-degree capturing mode, users may utilize the Insta360 X4 as a regular wide-angle camera. They may shoot a first-person POV video with Single-Lens mode from a chest-mounted position. “Regular” means not having the fish eye-looking effect from the 360-degree mode and having ordinary, flat-looking images instead.

Under the Single-Lens mode, users will be able to record 4K videos at 60fps with an ultra-wide 170-degree field of view. This can be upgraded even more with MaxView while retaining 4K resolution at 30fps. Meanwhile, Me Mode, which erases the selfie stick, can film 4K at up to 120fps.

There are also upgrades on the X4’s creative shooting modes. Bullet Time can now shoot slow-mos at 5.7K at 120fps, or even 3K at an astounding 240fps. Hyperlapse videos, meanwhile, can be recorded in 8K quality.

Action specialist

A 5nm AI chip powers the Insta360 X4, along with a smart control system with Voice and Gesture Control features, and a host of AI-powered shooting and editing features.

The action camera comes with a 2.5-inch Corning Gorila Glass touchscreen for on-the-go use. Users may adjust the settings or choose the desired mode more easily.

The X4’s 2,290mAh battery allows for up to a 135-minute run time (at 5.7K@30fps). This is an impressive 67% longer battery life than its predecessor, the X3.

Moreover, the device is waterproof at up to 164 feet for diving, and cold-weather resistant at up to -20 degrees Celsius.

AI-powered editing

The X4 also harnesses the power of AI. Using the Insta360 app, users may simply move their phone or use the virtual joystick to point the camera. AI Edit, on the other hand, lets Insta360’s entire algorithm do the work for the reframing process. This improved algorithm has better subject detection, helping users save time. Users may also get creative with Shot Lab and Motion ND filters.

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Cameras

Fujifilm announces X100VI, limited-edition model

The first X100 camera with in-body image stabilization

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Fujifilm X100VI

Fujifilm has launched its latest compact digital camera: The Fujifilm X100VI. The sixth generation model introduces a handful of firsts for an X100 series camera.

The X100VI boasts of a new 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and is powered by an X-Processor 5 engine. These work together to allow more light than any prior X100 camera.

For the first time, the camera offers in-body image stabilization with up to 6.0 stops. Filming at up to 6.2K 30p has also been made possible.

High performance

In addition to more light absorption, the X100VI features ISO 125, which was only available as an extension in previous models. Its tracking AF function also ensures high-quality content especially for filming.

The camera comes with 20 film simulation modes, including the new “REALA ACE” mode for a diverse range of distinctive tones. This particular mode offers faithful color reproduction and high-contrast tonality which is suitable for various subjects and situations.

Moreover, the X100VI supports Frame.io Camera to Cloud without the need for additional accessories. Users will only need to wirelessly connect to the internet to automatically upload photos and videos. This speeds up the process from shooting to final editing.

Better operability

The X100VI also has an “Advanced Hybrid Viewfinder” function. With this, users will be able to switch between the optical (OVF) and electronic (EVF) viewfinders. The EVF itself is equipped with a high-resolution OLED panel with about 3.69 million dots.

Meanwhile, the “Electronic Range Finder” (ERF) allows a small EVF to be simultaneously displayed on the OVF. This permits the photographer to capture the subject in the OVF while magnifying the in-focus area in the small EVF.

Functional design

The Fujifilm X100VI retains the compact and lightweight look of its previous iterations. As with its predecessors, the latest model’s body uses aluminum for the top and bottom surfaces.

It has also adopted the X100V’s ultra-thin tilt LCD monitor design. The shape of the grip, on the other hand, has been fine-tuned to ensure a better feel. The positions of the buttons on the back have also been moved.

Limited edition X100VI

In addition to its release, a limited edition X100VI model will be made available to celebrate Fujifilm’s 90th anniversary. Only 1,934 units of the limited edition model will be available worldwide.

These numbered X100VI units are packaged in a special box that includes a special strap, soft release button, and history cards.

The camera body is engraved with the founding logo in 1934, along with a unique serial number.

In the Philippines, The Limited edition X100VI will retail for PhP 130,990. Meanwhile, the standard edition is priced at PhP 103,990.

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Accessories

DJI Mic 2 Philippine price, availability revealed

Ultimate pocket-sized pro audio solution

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The DJI Mic 2 finally has a local price for Philippine customers. DJI’s latest addition to its content-creating tools is priced at PhP 19,000.

It is available in both black and white and can be purchased at DJI authorized retail stores and online via Lazada and Shopee.

The DJI Mic 2 was officially announced last month via a livestream event as a device built for content creators. A follow-up to the DJI Mic, the company’s first wireless microphone offering, this new version features a slightly updated design and more functionalities.

It retains the 1.1-inch OLED touchscreen display from its predecessor, but the LED light has been moved to the side. The white color option is also an addition for customers.

The microphone is capable of clearer audio recording at 48kHz 24-bit audio and 32-bit float quality. It also supports a higher acoustic overload point at up to 120dB.

As for its noise-cancelling capabilities, the DJI Mic 2 allows users to record and have noise from as close as a meter away filtered, without the need for further editing.

With its own charging case, the mic has an 18-hour battery life overall. Each transmitter and receiver lasts six hours.

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What’s a mic that every creator needs? It’s the DJI Mic 2 🫶 #DJI #DJIMic #Creator #contentcreatortips

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