Cameras

AKASO officially lands in the Philippines

Teaming up with Siklab Spark Corporation to bring its signature 360° creativity and affordable gear.

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Global action camera brand AKASO is taking its next big leap into the Philippines.

The brand officially named Siklab Spark Corporation as its exclusive local distributor, marking a major milestone in AKASO’s regional expansion and strengthening its commitment to creators and adventurers across the country.

Since 2010, AKASO has built a loyal following around the world by offering high-quality, performance-driven action cameras at prices that make creativity accessible to everyone.

Today, the brand has sold more than 7 million units in over 200 countries, capturing everything from everyday adventures to once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Built for creators who “Let Life Run”

Guided by its philosophy of “Let Life Run,” AKASO designs cameras for what it calls the Passionate Hobbyist, or those who love documenting life, not just the extremes.

The Philippines, home to a vibrant creator community and an ever-growing travel culture, is a natural fit for the brand’s expansion. Through its partnership with Siklab Spark Corporation, AKASO aims to establish nationwide availability, strengthen its online presence, and bring community-driven events to life.

Step into 360° creativity with the AKASO 360

Leading the charge is the AKASO 360, a compact, weatherproof, and lightweight action camera designed to capture every angle of life in stunning detail.

The AKASO 360 records 5.7K 360° videos for up to 120 minutes and captures 72MP photos with impressive clarity.

It features dual lenses, stereo microphones with wind-noise reduction, and AI subject tracking to keep every shot smooth and focused.

Advanced users can enjoy DNG8 RAW mode for flexible editing, while casual creators will love its simple workflow via the AKASO360 App and Studio software.

Available now with launch promos and giveaways

The AKASO 360 is now officially available in the Philippines through Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. To celebrate its launch, AKASO is offering exclusive discounts and vouchers until October 21.

The AKASO 360 Standard Bundle is available for PhP 13,988 (SRP PhP 15,988), with additional voucher discounts bringing prices down to as low as PhP 11,888 on Shopee, PhP 12,288 on TikTok, and PhP 12,188 on Lazada.

Other bestsellers are also on sale:

  • AKASO V50 X (PhP 6,988 SRP): from PhP 5,258 on Shopee, PhP 5,299.20 on TikTok, and PhP 5,688 on Lazada
  • AKASO EK7000 (PhP 4,988 SRP): from PhP 3,769.20 on TikTok, PhP 3,790.40 on Shopee, and PhP 4,608 on Lazada

To make the launch even more exciting, AKASO is giving away three EK7000 units worth PhP 4,988 each.

Fans can join by following AKASO on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok by October 20, with winners announced on October 21 at 8 PM.

Cameras

Canon announces EOS R6 Mark III camera, RF45mm f/1.2 STM lens

Uncompromised storytelling plus f/1.2 lens made more accessible

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Canon has officially announced the EOS R6 Mark III full-frame CMOS camera, along with the RF45mm f/1.2 STM lens.

The latest addition to the EOS R mirrorless line, the new camera paired with the large aperture lens is designed for enthusiasts and hobbyists.

The RF45mm f/1.2 STM is Canon’s widest aperture non-professional lens in the RF lens lineup.

This versatile and easy-to-use 45mm focal length on full-frame cameras broadens accessibility of an f/1.2 lens to users.

On APS-C cameras, users can expect a portrait-friendly 72mm full-frame equivalent focal length.

Faster, sharper

The EOS R6 Mark III features a higher 32.5-megapixel resolution and improved speed, performance, and reliability. It also incorporates powerful video capabilities.

Such resolution allows for finer details to be captured in higher definition, but with more cropping flexibility. The higher megapixel count comes in useful for faraway subjects shot with close crops.

On high-speed continuous shooting (electronic shutter) mode, the new camera can capture up to 150 shots at 40 fps.

And despite the higher processing load, it maintains the same high-speed continuous shooting rate (up to 40 fps on electronic shutter and up to 12 fps on mechanical or electronic first-curtain shutter).

In addition, the camera features a user-friendly pre-continuous shooting feature. Before the shutter button is fully pressed, up to 20 continuous shots can be recorded in any still format.

Meanwhile, autofocus algorithm enhancements offer more tenacious subject tracking. This simplifies the post-shooting workflow especially for shooting difficult subjects.

The EOS R6 Mark III also inherits the Register People Priority function found in the flagship EOS R1. This allows pre-registered people to be prioritized for detection and tracking when shooting photos and videos in group situations.

Leap in video capabilities

Moreover, the camera offers more recording and post-production options. It supports 7K 60p internal RAW video recording to a CF-express Type B card.

It is also the first EOS R series camera to offer 3:2 Open Gate recording at up to 7K 30p RAW.

This provides greater flexibility for reframing, especially when creating horizontal and vertical videos from the same footage.

And during recording, users can also simultaneously record a smaller MP4 proxy file or a 4K DCI Fine MP4 sub movie to its SD card slot.

In addition, recording formats have been expanded. There’s internal RAW recording, Canon Log 2, and HLG gamma recording. These are on top of the pre-existing Canon Log 3 and HDR PQ.

Support for the Cinema EOS range’s Custom Picture (CP) profiles, including custom LUTs helps set recording options like gamma, color sampling, and bit depth as well.

And like the EOS R5 Mark II, the EOS R6 Mark III supports waveform monitor display, as well as false colors and zebras.

New features like AWB Response and Shockless WB also enable seamless white balance transitions during video shooting, regardless if the AWB is utilized or the white balance is manually adjusted.

RF45mm f/1.2 STM: f/1.2 made accessible

As Canon’s first f/1.2 lens of its class, the RF45mm f/1.2 STM is a compact, lightweight, and affordable option for users who desire bokeh. It weighs about 346 grams and is the smallest f/1.2 lens in both EF and RF lens range.

The larger aperture also enables the lens to deliver greater low light flexibility and AF support. The 4mm focal length allows users to capture a natural perspective, moving seamlessly  between wide environmental shots and intimate closeups.

On APS-C cameras, the lens achieves a 72mm equivalent focal length. This, of course, is ideal for close-ups, portraits, and street photography.

The f/1.2 bokeh then levels up the shooting, as users can frame their storytelling in a more defining manner.

But if the entire shot needs to be sharp, just dial the aperture down to f/8 so the lens can deliver edge-to-edge sharpness.

Together, the lens’ maximum aperture allows ample light information to reach the new camera’s sensor.

This way, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system’s low light capabilities on the EOS R6 Mark III is fully maximized.

Plus, with 5-axis stabilization on the camera, the RF45mm f/1.2 STM delivers sharp, clean images at a slow shutter speed and lower ISO.

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Cameras

Insta360 launches X4 Air in the Philippines

Its lightest 8K 360 camera yet

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Insta360 X4 Air

Insta360 is expanding its presence in the Philippines with the launch of the X4 Air. It’s a new ultralight 8K 360 camera designed for creators who want portability without losing image quality. The company says the X4 Air continues the X Series legacy of intuitive design and accessible 360 storytelling, now in a smaller and more travel-ready body.

Weighing only 165 grams, the X4 Air is the lightest 8K 360 camera Insta360 has released. It uses dual 1/1.8-inch sensors and updated image processing to capture sharper 8K detail with richer color. The camera is aimed at beginners, travelers, and anyone looking to explore 360 content creation for the first time.

Sharper imaging and smarter performance

Insta360 says the X4 Air improves on the X4 by focusing on real-world usability. AdaptiveTone and Active HDR work together to balance highlights and shadows, while Portrait Mode smooths skin tones naturally for people-focused shots. Updated low-light algorithms also deliver cleaner images after sunset.

The camera introduces user-replaceable lenses with a tougher optical coating that doubles drop resistance. It is waterproof up to 15 meters and includes FlowState Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock for steady footage in any direction.

Compact build with flagship features

At 165 grams, the X4 Air is built to be carried anywhere. It stays light enough for one-handed use while still maintaining Insta360’s fifth-generation panoramic imaging technology. Despite its compact form, it shares the X5’s 8K 30 fps 360° video and replaceable lens system, and it supports most X5 accessories.

All-in-one creative tool

The X4 Air records in 360 degrees so creators can shoot first and reframe later. InstaFrame Mode saves both a share-ready flat video and a full 360° version at the same time. The camera also supports the Invisible Selfie Stick for drone-like shots, as well as smooth POV footage for daily vlogs.

Twist to Shoot, Gesture Control, and Voice Control let users start recording hands-free, making it easier to capture moments during solo shoots, group scenes, or sports runs.

Faster editing and seamless sharing

Editing is handled through Insta360’s AI-powered mobile app. Features like Auto Edit, FlashCut, and AI Frame automatically generate polished videos. The camera integrates with Apple, Garmin, and Huawei devices for performance overlays, while Insta360+ Cloud storage keeps files backed up. Every X4 Air purchase includes a one-year 200 GB cloud subscription for a limited time.

Pricing and availability

The Insta360 X4 Air is now available in Graphite Black and Arctic White from official offline and online retailers, including Shopee and Lazada. The Standard Bundle is priced at PhP 21,990. The Starter Bundle costs PhP 24,990 and includes a 114 cm Invisible Selfie Stick, Lens Cap, and an extra battery. Both bundles come with a complimentary one-year Insta360+ subscription for a limited time.

The company has expanded from seven to seventeen retail locations since June, adding stores in SM Dasmariñas, SM Lipa, SM Pampanga, SM Clark, Ayala Market!, Glorietta, SM Aura, Ayala Harbour Point, Marquee Mall, and SM La Union. Thirteen more branches are planned before the end of the year.

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Cameras

DJI Osmo Nano review

Fits perfectly into a life that never stays still

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I’ve never been the kind of person who stays still for long.

My calendar looks more like a puzzle than a plan. Airports, races, trails, test drives, repeat.

Somewhere between boarding gates and finish lines, I try to squeeze in meetings, shoots, and the occasional night out.

For years, I’ve carried cameras that promised to keep up. They all said the same thing: lightweight, smart.

Yet they always ended up feeling like one more thing to hold. They’re more of a reminder that I was documenting life instead of living it.

Then the DJI Osmo Nano arrived, right before a flight to Hong Kong. I slipped it into my backpack without much thought.

Somewhere between the terminals of Hong Kong, the beaches of Shenzhen, the streets of Zhengzhou, and the mountain roads of Baguio, this tiny camera became part of my everyday life.

Hanging from a lanyard or docked on a dashboard, it was always ready. It’s strange how something so small can change the way you move through the world.

I stopped worrying about framing the perfect shot and started focusing on feeling the moment.

Made for people on the move

At 52 grams, the Osmo Nano is incredibly light yet feels substantial. It’s the kind of confidence that comes from precision engineering.

The matte finish resists fingerprints and the occasional drop of sweat. Simply put, it’s designed for motion.

Then there’s the protective case. If there were an award for most underrated accessory, this would win it.

I accidentally dropped the Nano from a floor up and braced for heartbreak, but when I picked it up, both the body and the lens were flawless.

With or without a case, it also looks elegant. It doesn’t scream “camera.” You can clip it on your shirt or cap, and no one gives you a second look.

You can film without disrupting the mood, which gives the footage a sense of authenticity that’s hard to replicate.

A full system in your pocket

The Osmo Nano alone is impressive, but pair it with the Multifunctional Vision Dock and it becomes a complete ecosystem.

I brought it everywhere. In Shenzhen, it sat on the sand while I ran barefoot by the water. In Zhengzhou, it helped me capture temples and tourist sites that looked almost cinematic.

The dock acts like your all-in-one creative base: a power bank, tripod, remote control, and transfer hub built into one piece of aluminum.

It charges the camera to 80% in just 20 minutes, records for up to 200 minutes, and transfers data up to 600MB/s through its microSD slot.

It even doubles as a display for previewing or reviewing clips, which is a rare convenience in a setup this small.

Together, the Nano and the dock feel like the definition of portable professionalism: a setup that fits in your pocket yet never feels like a compromise. It’s everything you need, minus the baggage.

The creative hub

What ties it all together is the DJI Mimo app. It’s the command center that turns the Osmo Nano into an extension of your creative workflow.

Footage syncs automatically, though I wish it keeps the connection longer, as the device kept disconnecting from the app time and time again.

Through the app, you can trim, color-grade, and export straight from your phone. Whether at an airport lounge, a café, or even the backseat of a car, editing feels effortless as long as you don’t use the One-Tap Edit feature.

I don’t know how to put it, but using AI to pick the ‘best’ frames doesn’t sit well with me after trying it and seeing its output.

While the frames it picked were ideal, composition-wise, it doesn’t have the emotions needed when producing a video.

 

@gadgetmatch We’ve taken the DJI Osmo Nano in the wild and here are our sample clips. Full review on gadgetmatch.com 🫶🏼 #DJIOsmoNano #DJI #foryou ♬ som original – 𒆜|𝑹𝑵𝑩𝑨𝑺𝑺444🇧🇷-_-

Nevertheless, I particularly love how it adapts to my workflow. Syncing large files and previewing high-res clips happens with minimal lag.

For creators who thrive on momentum, that speed is priceless.

Race tracks and road trips

I’ve always believed that motion tells better stories than stillness, that the way a car turns a corner says as much as the driver’s expression.

When I tested cars at the BYD Zhengzhou All-Terrain Circuit, the Osmo Nano was mounted on the Dual-Direction Magnetic Ball-Joint Adapter Mount.

Through rough corners and high-speed bursts, the videos stayed unshaken thanks to RockSteady 3.0 and HorizonBalancing.

The footage looked like something out of a commercial. The 143° ultra-wide lens captured more story.

The only drawback was how the Nano tended to overheat during off-road and race track sessions, even after a firmware update.

Even when we were indoors at the BYD Di-Space Museum — a controlled, air-conditioned environment — I had to limit recordings to 2.7K or 1080p instead of 4K to keep recording.

Later, I brought it to Baguio City, driving through pine-covered streets with the Ford Territory Hybrid.

The colors shifted with the light, from deep morning blues to warm golds by afternoon, and the Nano handled it all gracefully. It balanced light and shadow without flattening the details.

In moments where I could lose a shot quickly, I preferred setting color to Auto rather than using D-Log. Though I’m a creative director by profession, I don’t believe in using D-Log unless you can color grade perfectly.

Most creators who insist on it miss the point. It takes away the beauty of capturing things as they are. The Nano’s color quality is good enough to make every frame look polished and accessible.

Never missing a step

Of course, no camera review feels complete until I’ve taken it to the trail.

During BGY BYG’s OCR Simulation at Bridgetowne Obstacle Park, I used the Magnetic Headband and Lanyard, swapping between them as I watched participants go through obstacles.

I wanted to see how the Nano handled rain and movement, and it didn’t just survive. It performed well.

Thanks to the 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, it captured athletes at dusk with the SuperNight mode assisting in low light. The image quality was good, though not exceptional.

 

 

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Due to its fixed ultra-wide field of view, versatility remains limited. It doesn’t have a zoom lens, so I had to move closer to the athletes to frame their movements.

Then came the 32km trail run to Sitio Malasya in Rodriguez, Rizal. The terrain was brutal (as usual) and yet the Nano stayed locked in. I held it by hand without the dock, and the footage I captured became one of my favorites.

It’s rare for an action camera to feel emotional, but the Nano somehow made the footage feel alive.

During the run, the audio also impressed me. The built-in microphones captured ambient sound and reduced wind effectively. For those with DJI Mics, pairing is seamless and doesn’t require receivers.

Maybe next time, I can record a Trail Talks podcast so we don’t get bored running longer distances?

 

 

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At the end of Sitio Malasya is a raging river, where we stopped to eat and rest. When it drizzled mid-run, I kept recording without worry.

The Nano handled rain and splashes without fogging or glitching. I didn’t feel anxious bringing it into the unpredictable courses of my life.

Running back to the jump-off point, I realized the DJI Osmo Nano isn’t just a piece of technology. It’s an adventure companion that understands the tempo of your life.

Unlocking its full potential

Like any performer, the Osmo Nano shines brighter with the right supporting cast.

The ND Filter Set is a must for bright outdoor scenes, adding that polished, cinematic tone. The Magnetic Headband is perfect for hands-free capture during workouts or races.

For flexible angles, the Dual-Direction Magnetic Ball-Joint Adapter Mount is my second favorite.

My personal favorite is the Glass Lens Cover. It’s the reason my lens still looks brand new after that dramatic drop.

Out of the box, though, the DJI Osmo Nano already comes prepared with the camera, Magnetic Lanyard, Multifunctional Vision Dock, Dual-Direction Magnetic Ball-Joint Adapter Mount, Protective Case, Magnetic Hat Clip, and a USB-C 3.1 cable.

It’s a complete kit that gets you shooting right away. And once you see how capable it is, you’ll want to expand your setup anyway.

Is the DJI Osmo Nano your GadgetMatch?

The DJI Osmo Nano represents freedom. It’s made for people who live on the go, who don’t have time for complex setups but still want cinematic results.

I’ve always believed that the best camera is the one that never slows you down, and the Osmo Nano fits that perfectly. For an athlete and storyteller like me, it’s a Super Swipe.

Even if you’re not living life on the move, it’s still a Swipe Right, especially considering how complete the package is for its price: PhP 15,990 for the 64GB model and PhP 18,390 for the 128GB model.

Think of the stories you’ll tell once you bring it on your next trip. This is why it earns the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.

Of course, it’s not flawless. If you expect the same performance, image quality, or versatility of the Osmo Action 5 Pro, Osmo Pocket 3, or even its competitor, the Insta360 Go, you might need to temper your expectations.

But as a new device, the Osmo Nano is promising. So promising that five automotive journalists I was with in Zhengzhou bought one on the spot after seeing mine in action.

If that’s not convincing enough, I don’t know what is. Because right now, as most people see it, the DJI Osmo Nano deserves a spot in your camera arsenal, and perhaps, a place in the story of your life on the move.

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