myFirst Insta Wi myFirst Insta Wi

Cameras

myFirst Insta Wi: For the love of labels, prints, and photographs

Here’s a camera and printer in one!

Published

on

Kids nowadays are neck-deep into technology — smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, television, and other forms of tech in our day-to-day lives.

Being the legal guardian of my seven-year-old niece is tough, especially since my work involves the latest devices in the consumer technology industry. She has access to all the newest and coolest gadgets in the market more than her peers.

What worries me is that I’ll have a hard time encouraging her to be more present, disconnect, and have fun offline. So when Oaxis Singapore reached out for their Kickstarter campaign, I was ecstatic. An instant camera and printer in one could be the solution to my woes.

A bit of history

Before we dive in, let’s have a bit of a background about myFirst. It’s a kids technology brand under Oaxis, founded by a team of super dads who aim to bridge the gap between tech and the toys we used to love.

There are a lot of issues that almost every parent has when it comes to gadgets. These include security in using technology and against online risks, being a factor in a child’s learning process, possible addiction, and safety from hazardous materials. This is what myFirst has been trying to address ever since they launched the myFirst Camera. And it continues to do so with the newest Insta Wi.

So, what is this Insta Wi?

The Insta Wi is myFirst’s newest camera — an all-in-one device that lets you take photos and videos, and print pictures and labels.

It comes in an adorable, familiar shape with a yummy yellow colorway. Seems familiar? The color follows after the Pantone Color of the Year 2021.

It has little ears where you can hook some straps so you can bring the device wherever you go without worry.

On its front, you can find its 16-megapixel rear camera together with the printer.

Moving to its sides, the right part has a mouthpiece and a slot for the micro-USB port and memory card, covered by a yellow silicone flap.

The other side comes with its speaker grilles.

On the back, you can find its selfie camera above the 2.4-inch IPS LCD screen, surrounded by plenty of buttons for navigating the device and doing its function.

It also comes with a dock that doubles as its protective case and holder for kids to grip easily.

The case has two instant buttons on its back: a power button and a wireless print option.

Playing around

So let’s dive in on what this all-in-one device can do for you or your kid. You can boot the device by pressing the power button on the left side of the screen. When it’s opened, it will automatically use the selfie shooter. If you aim to use the rear camera, flip it through the same button you used to boot the device. You just need to click it to switch, since pressing long will shut it down.

On the right side of the screen are buttons that let you capture photos and videos. It’s the same process as the power button; the icon on top requires a single click while the icon below requires a long press for it to work.

The button below the power toggle is for the back option and settings. You can change the printing density, or switch the photo resolution between 6M (3280×1848), 9M (4000×2248), and 12M (4032×2880). Just make sure to use the plus and minus sign as the up and down buttons, and the camera button as a replacement to the usual “enter” sign.

myFirst Insta Wi

Other settings include video resolution options (VGA, 720P, and 1080P), language setting, sound, date and time, wireless connection, and format option. The other buttons below the screen let you access the gallery and print photos, assuming you have inserted a roll of paper.

Thermal printing!

myFirst Insta Wi

Let’s go back to the front and figure out how to print and insert a roll of paper. First, you need to open the yellow cover by pulling it from the side.

myFirst Insta Wi

Once opened, you’ll find a slot where you can insert the rolled thermal paper included in the box.

myFirst Insta Wi

Of course, you have to insert the rolled thermal paper so we can get things rolling. Remember to remove the sticker and put the edge to the opening so the printer can detect the paper.

myFirst Insta Wi

Once you’re set, you can check your gallery and click the print button. Printing doesn’t take long, ten seconds top. The results aren’t quite lovely, since we’ve covered thermal printers before that have clearer and firmer results.

Although, that’s only an inconvenience for adults. When my niece used the printer to make physical copies of her photos, she was astounded. The key here is making the kid indulge and have fun using technology.

myFirst Insta Wi

To make things more adorable, the package comes with colorful stickers to adorn your prints and labels.

Needing labels

myFirst Insta Wi

If you don’t have a label in your life, then that’s a problem. Kidding aside, the Insta Wi prints not just photos, but labels, too. You can download the myFirst Insta Wi app on the App Store and the Play Store.

myFirst Insta Wi

To make it work, remember to turn off the camera (if you have it on), and place it on the dock. Then, turn it on again through the power button and press the wireless print option.

This enables Wi-Fi connectivity so you can connect both your smartphone and the Insta Wi. It took me a few minutes connecting both, but when I succeeded — everything was just seamless.

myFirst Insta Wi

There are so many things you can do using the app. I even asked my niece to write something and use a layout so that the print looks cute.

myFirst Insta Wi

If you have a Galaxy Note or a tablet with pen support, it would be perfect to draw on the app and have it printed to give a handwritten and personal touch to your labels and prints. Nonetheless, fingers do well on any smartphone if you’re creative enough.

myFirst Insta Wi

There are options to make a label, layout a design, and even add filters to your existing photos through the app — and you can print it easily and continuously. I would advise cutting the rolls using a cutter or a pair of scissors since the thermal paper is tougher than it seems.

myFirst Insta Wi

For those who want to make things a little bit personal, you can print old photos from your phone. The thermal prints need a higher contrast so consider editing your photos to appear clear and visible when printed.

Taking snaps

I didn’t have any video samples with me but I took a stroll with the device while my cousins and I were out for a walk. And for the record, I was able to upload these photos because the device comes with a memory slot for a microSD card. And a microSD card reader in the box to ensure you can have a copy of your snaps!

Of course, the shots aren’t remarkable if you compare them to the latest cameras and smartphones we have today. However, it’s reminiscent of digital cameras of the past — grainy films, dates and tags, and colors that saturated our photo albums back in the 90s and early 2000s.

Lasts enough

The Insta Wi has a 1,500mAh battery capacity which can last up to five hours. Charging time is capped at 2.5 hours. If you ask me, the capacity is more than enough since we’re not going to spend the whole day using the device. When I went out, I turned it on and off in between chats and walks.

Just because you have cool and cute technology at your hands doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the present. Remember: variety is key when it comes to recreational activities with our kids.

Price and availability

The myFirst Insta Wi retails for US$ 129. However, you can snag it for EUR 59/US$ 69 through its Kickstarter campaign which started last September 14, 2021, and will end on October 14, 2021.

myFirst Insta Wi

After the Kickstarter campaign, production will begin in October 2021 and will start shipping in November 2021 for early birds. Regular Kickstarters will have their Insta Wi shipped by December 2021.

Is this your Kid’s GadgetMatch?

I’d give a resounding yes — whether you snag the Insta Wi at an affordable rate through its Kickstarter campaign or if you have spare cash to buy it at retail price.

Most gadgets aren’t designed for kids. There’s a handful that does so, but it’s rare to see a product that considers the kids’ user experience,  safety, and security, as well as addressing a parent/guardian’s concerns.

And myFirst’s Insta Wi ticks all the boxes to make it a kid’s GadgetMatch. And possibly, a gift that parents and guardians can consider for birthdays and holidays.

myFirst Insta Wi

After all, it has an adorable design made of kid-friendly materials and an experience that helps kids unleash their creativity through prints, photographs, and a bit of video recording. More importantly, it encourages a balanced use of technology to help be more present.

My niece surely had a good time, and even I, as an adult, had a fun time playing around with the Insta Wi. Incidentally, it became a bonding moment for us, too. My high-end cameras, printers, and novelty devices are too difficult to grasp for kids under 12. At least with the Insta Wi, my love for prints and photographs lives on to a whole new generation.

Cameras

DJI Osmo Action 6 review: An adventurer’s best friend

This might be the best action camera yet?

Published

on

My life as an athlete with a love for adventure often throws me into days that move faster than I can track.

One moment I am at the gym before sunrise, convincing myself that today I will stretch properly. Next, I am sprinting through airports or packing for a weekend race that I definitely did not plan for (but signed up for anyway because that is who I am).

When the DJI Osmo Action 6 entered my life, it felt like finding a piece of gear that immediately understood the mess I willingly put myself through.

I have always wanted a camera that could move with me (and survive me), preferably without making me feel guilty every time I jump off something or run through something.

I wanted a camera that did not need pampering. Something that would not make me pause my life so I could “protect the gear.”

Then suddenly, there it was. I had an entire month with the Osmo Action 6, and it almost felt like the universe handed me something that finally matched my pace. It followed me through unexpected moments that felt too good not to capture.

Made for those who ~really~ move

The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to hold the Osmo Action 6. It felt secure even when my hands were wet or drenched in sweat from training, as if it wasn’t bothered at all that I was already exhausted at 7 a.m.

Most of its controls are placed so intuitively that it felt like the camera was gently guiding me, saying, “Don’t overthink it. Just press this. Go live your life.”

The user interface was so straightforward that even people who have never touched an action camera would know what to do.

The screen reacts quickly and the settings are easy to reach. Its layout feels like it was made for people who move first and think later.

It removes every excuse to miss a moment because you were too busy trying to understand how the device works.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jaye (@hemjaye)

Out of the box, the Osmo Action 6 gives you everything you need: a 1.5m extension rod, three Extreme Battery Plus units inside a multifunctional battery case, two locking screws, a curved adhesive base, a USB-C 3.1 cable, and two Dual-Direction Quick Release Adapter Mounts.

Depending on your lifestyle, accessories like the floating handle, the dual direction mini extension rod (which doubles as a tripod), the 360-degree wrist strap, and the hanging neck mount all serve one purpose: keep you hands-free so you can focus on living your story.

Inside a race course

During the Spartan Race’s Asia-Pacific Championship in Alviera, Porac, Pampanga, I joined the open category simply because I wanted to film my moments inside the course.

I could never join the Age Group Championship wearing a red band only to slow down for content. My competitive self would revolt.

I have always raced in the front pack with elite athletes and seasoned racers. Content creation is a blessing until you’re in a race and your pride says absolutely not.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jaye (@hemjaye)

So my friend (also an elite athlete) and I became last-minute racers thanks to Mang Inasal Philippines. We joined the Sprint Category, which covers 5 kilometers with 20 obstacles (plus three extra because championship vibes).

Armed with only the Osmo Action 6 on a dual direction mini extension rod, I climbed walls and nets, carried sandbags, passed through hanging obstacles, and ran under an open trail where the sun genuinely felt personal.

Alviera is hot. We call it Hellviera for a reason. Yet the camera kept going despite direct sunlight and constant movements.

I dialed the resolution down to 2.7K because long 4K recording will always test thermal limits. Even then, it stayed reliable.

Like a scene straight out of an adventure documentary

The stabilization was genuinely magical. The frame stayed clean and level even when my hands were doing a million different things, like swinging my arms, gripping nets, adjusting grip, and bracing for impact.

Whether you choose RockSteady or HorizonSteady, your running sequences will look cinematic and documentary-level.

When we climbed or jumped, the shots had that adventure-film energy. There were no jitter or weird warping. No “Sorry, can you do that again?” moments.

We did not need retakes, and we did not need to check footage mid-race. The Osmo Action 6 kept up with the pace of an endurance athlete.

The built-in microphones even picked up our voices clearly. Pair it with DJI’s wireless mic and you get clean commentary that feels like the behind-the-scenes of your own sports film.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jaye (@hemjaye)

Calm moment underwater

One of the most meaningful moments came when I lent the Osmo Action 6 to GadgetMatch’s Account Manager and Resident Host, Noela Amparo-Oro, for her birthday.

She wanted to celebrate by freediving, which honestly feels like the most poetic thing you can do for yourself. So I handed her the camera and said, “Go live your birthday moment. Capture it.”

Action cameras deserve to see actual action, not city sidewalks pretending to be adventures.

Noela had fun descending into the clear blue water. The footage she brought back made my heart stop for a moment. It was surreal. Like she had slipped into another world and returned with proof that it existed.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Noela 🎧❣️🎶 (@noeyylovesyou)

I have seen plenty of underwater clips from action cameras that turned murky or desaturated, requiring heavy color adjustments. The Osmo Action 6 did not do that. Underwater, it preserved colors beautifully.

The details of her movements; the subtle shimmer of light across her skin; and the calm flow of bubbles. Everything was captured with clarity that felt emotional.

The Osmo Action 6 handled depth and shifting light with ease. Watching the clips felt like I had been there beside her, suspended underwater.

Even Noela could not believe the footage. And the fact that the camera does not need an underwater case up to 20 meters makes the experience feel even more freeing.

A picture quality to love

The Osmo Action 6 uses a large 1/1.1-inch square CMOS sensor that lets in more light, allowing underwater clips to remain balanced and detailed even in low-light environments.

With 10-bit color support, gradients in the water and sky looked vivid. The variable aperture paired with the sensor gives you the flexibility to shoot under harsh sunlight or underwater without losing depth or mood.

Exposure transitions also felt natural, and the highlights stayed controlled while the shadows held detail. The Osmo Action 6 preserved the emotional tone of each scene without flattening the story.

As James Rusameekae from Physical: Asia said, it is simply “Wow!”

Is the DJI Osmo Action 6 your GadgetMatch?

The DJI Osmo Action 6 excelled in every environment I threw it into. Water, low light, heat, fast movement, and unpredictable conditions? It handled everything with ease.

I collected footage filled with emotion and energy, and everything remained steady and sharp.

The clips felt complete even before editing, like they were already telling a story. (I uploaded some of them straight to my Instagram Story!)

If you live an active life and thrive outdoors, the Osmo Action 6 will meet your needs. You will appreciate how quick it is to use, and you will love the size, durability, and picture quality.

It feels like the kind of gadget you bond with, which makes it a Swipe Right!

Anyone who wants a companion for adventures will find comfort in the Osmo Action 6. For me, it is a Super Swipe.

With the experience I had, and the ease it brings to my life whenever I am out and about, PhP 24,390 for the Standard Combo feels like an investment in moments that matter.

The DJI Osmo Action 6 deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.

If you do not live an active lifestyle, the Osmo Pocket Series or Osmo Nano might suit you better since it is built for city travelers. But if you want to look adventurous — and you have the budget — who am I to stop you?

The DJI Osmo Action 6 retails for PhP 29,990 for the Adventure Combo, giving you all the accessories you may or may not need.

Continue Reading

Cameras

Canon EOS R6 Mark III Philippines price

Uncompromised storytelling

Published

on

The Canon EOS R6 Mark III has officially been launched in the Philippines. The full-frame CMOS camera is the latest addition to the Canon EOS R mirrorless line, and is officially priced at PhP 164,998 in the market (body only).

Customers can get it with these two lens for a corresponding bundle price as well:

  • With RF24-105mm IS STM: PhP 186,998
  • With RF24-105mm L IS USM: PhP 244,998

The regular bundle includes a CF Express Type B Card while the preorder bundle includes an LP-E6P battery. Preorder period is from December 1 to 31.

In addition, the new RF45mm F1.2 STM lens has also been revealed. It brings exceptional bokeh and a 72mm full-frame equivalent crop factor for PhP 25,298.

Uncompromised storytelling

The EOS R6 Mark III features a higher 32.5-megapixel resolution compared to the usual 24.1MP resolution. This, alongside improved speed, performance, and reliability, allows for uncompromised storytelling.

A standout feature is the camera’s 3:2 Open Gate 7K 30p RAW recording, the first of its kind. This provides greater flexibility for reframing. Creators can source videos with horizontal, vertical, cinematic, and more aspect ratios from the same footage.

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

And despite the higher processing load, it maintains the same high-speed continuous shooting rate. That’s 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.

This ensures no moment is missed, especially in scenarios like weddings or sports where there retakes aren’t an option.

More specs, details, and features about the new camera here: Canon announces EOS R6 Mark III camera, RF45mm f/1.2 STM lens

Continue Reading

Cameras

GoPro unveils MAX2, LIT HERO cameras, Fluid Pro AI gimbal

Built for content creators, more

Published

on

GoPro MAX2

GoPro has officially unveiled three new offerings for filmmakers and creators: the MAX2 360 camera, LIT HERO miniature lifestyle camera, and Fluid Pro AI gimbal.

The MAX2 is priced at US$ 499.99 while the Drone-Like Aerial Bundle which includes a carbon fiber extension pole and protective case retails for US$ 649.99.

On the other hand, the pocket-sized LIT HERO retails for US$ 269.99. Several bundles are also available starting at US$ 332.99. Lastly, the Fluid Pro AI gimbal sells for US$ 299.99.

MAX2: True 8K 360 camera

GoPro MAX2

The MAX2 360 camera is easy to use, and features twist-and-go replaceable lenses made from durable, water-repelling optical glass.

The camera can capture up to 8K 360 video. That’s 21% more resolution than the competition for superior detail and sharpness.

Such quality is combined with the MAX2’s 10-Bit Color to enable the most professional-looking 360 content.

Users can also shoot in GP-Log to maximize dynamic range, details, and post-production flexibility.

In addition, for audio quality, there are six industry-leading microphones for 360 audio, along with improved Bluetooth functionality, 360 stereo audio, and advanced wind noise reduction.

For stills, users will also get 29MP 360 photos for a high resolution should they need to crop, zoom, and reframe via the GoPro Quik App.

Speaking of post-processing, the Quik App offers AI-powered tools. GoPro subscribers also enjoy unlimited cloud-storage.

LIT HERO: Capture whatever, whenever

The ultra-compact LIT HERO lifestyle camera features a built-in light, enabling users to capture photos and videos under various scenarios with a retro vibes look.

The camera can capture up to 4K resolution at 60fps. Creators can also film at 2x slo-mo for different uses.

There is also an optional 4:3 aspect ratio from which creators can get cropped vertical clips for social posts.

Built with GoPro durability, the LIT HERO comes with a rugged and waterproof design at up to 16 feet (five meters).

On a single charge, the camera can record continuously for over 100 minutes at its highest video setting.

Fluid AI Pro gimbal: For all creators

Lastly, the Fluid Pro AI gimbal is designed for GoPro cameras, smartphones, and even point-and-shoot cameras weighing up to 400 grams.

Designed to meet the needs of today’s creators, the AI Subject Tracking gimbal features a 3-axis gimbal with interchangeable mounts.

The tracker can lock onto a person’s face or body and automatically track them in frame with precision. This tracker can also face either forward or back.

The gimbal even comes with an integrated fill light should you need to balance the light in shots.

The Fluid Pro AI lasts up to 18 hours in one go, and can even double as a power bank.

Continue Reading

Trending