The world of technology doesn’t rest. It almost feels as though there’s a new device or gadget released to replace the one you just managed to wrap your head around in a matter of months.
This is, of course, what the public gets to see. On the back end, technicians work tirelessly around the clock to perfect codes, materials and systems – some of which take years before being deemed ready for market. With the holiday season around the corner, we did a short roundup of new visual-related gadgets that could be the perfect additions to make your life a little easier, and a whole lot more exciting.
The advent of the personal phone turning into a mobile studio – for sound, photography, design and videography – has pushed the industry to not only make exciting handsets but also other gadgets that can work with them. The launch of Apple’s iPhone 14 range in September 2022 showcased this in quite a spectacular way. Not only is the maker continuing to customise the capabilities of the handsets, the selection of accessories continues to grow.
This year alone sees the introduction of five iPhones, three Apple Watches and a pair of AirPods Pro.
From the action camera front, Shenzhen-based Chinese technology company, DJI, continues to put cinematic capabilities in the hands of the everyday person. Their Action 2 camera is a feat of convenience and intelligence. Its magnetised body allows the user to change attachments with ease to match the scenario – be it on a helmet or on a tripod, it captures 4K video, has image stabilisation and boasts being water, dust and drop-proof.
Calling in at roughly USD280 it sits at a lower price point than the Insta360 One RS – which goes as high as USD 495. The InstaOne RS’s unique features, though, make it worth the jump. Its modular design allows the user to switch between the detachable 360 degree lens, 4K action camera and the wide angle lens. The detachable battery also makes it easier to go out adventuring with back-ups and no worries about losing power along the way.
The Skydio 2+ takes drone capabilities to another level through its Keyframe technology. With Keyframe, the user is able to programme flight paths for the drone, negotiate tricky camera movements and even control the speed adjustments along the path. For those who find themselves alone, this feature also allows you to film yourself without an assistant. Retailing at USD1,099, the cost of freedom comes with a pretty pinch.
While DJI introduced their new technology DJI Avata that also pushes the user experience to the realms of Augmented Reality and retails higher than the Skydio 2+, for a tenth of the cost, video enthusiasts can also join the playing field. With the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 and your smartphone, you turn into a bonafide filmmaker. The gimbal – a smart tripod of sorts – uses the company’s ActiveTrack 5.0 software to balance movement, allowing the user to track subjects smoothly regardless of whether they’re atop a moving vehicle or running alongside. Additional buttons enable control of cinematic blurs, zoom and other nifty effects.
Whether it’s just for fun or taking stock of the heads of cattle on the farm, these gadgets add other facets to capturing moments. That a picture is worth a thousand words might just be the very motivation to not be overtly concerned with the price points as you’ll be left with a bevy of stories to tell. The world awaits, and this tech is ready to be on your side.
