In November 2024, Samsung Electronics won a total of 29 ‘CES Innovation Awards 2025’ ahead of the world’s largest and most influential technology event, CES 2025. One Samsung technology honored with a CES 2025 Innovation Award is All Lenses on Prism (ALoP). This revolutionary structure that enables smaller telephoto camera modules while capturing bright and clear photos, will be showcased at the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 7-10, 2025.

As mobile phone users demand better image capture from their cameras, smartphone makers have added cameras for each zoom ratio (e.g. wide, ultra-wide, telephoto). Over time, the phone camera array has become quite crowded, with an ever-larger camera bump. That may be about to change thanks to All Lenses on Prism (ALoP), developed by Samsung’s Sensor Solutions Team.

The technology, which was officially announced in November 2024, may debut in the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone, the upcoming company’s flagship model, which, according to rumors, will have the same lens set as the S24 Ultra, except for the ultrawide camera, which will drop the actual 12MP and be based on a 50MP sensor with a 1/1.57″ optical size and 1.0 µm individual pixels the Samsung ISOCELL S5KJN3. There is also a chance that AloP will first appear on a rumored Galaxy S25 Slim, a new addition to the family, that will be used to show the potential of AloP to incorporate a set of large telephoto lenses in a smartphone without incurring the penalty of a huge camera bump.

Limitations of the folded telephoto camera

Telephoto cameras have been a new point of differentiation for smartphone manufacturers because they offer high-magnification capabilities, can compress backgrounds, reduce distortion due to the narrow field of view, and even create a suitable background blur effect, ideal for portraits… but as they reach ratios up to 5x, taller module height and an obtrusive camera bump are unavoidable.

The common solution is the use of folded telephoto camera structure, bending the path of light by 90 degrees like a periscope to allow for longer focal lengths horizontally without extending the thickness of smartphone vertically. The lenses stand vertically with respect to the plane of the smartphone body, so their diameter determines the height of the camera bump. This made higher magnification telephoto cameras in smartphones possible… but introduced limitations in terms of light gathering.

In fact, the folded telephoto camera structure limits the telephoto improvements that can be made in terms of image brightness.  A wider lens diameter is required for brighter images. Moving to a larger telephoto lens and brighter telephoto camera using large image sensor increases both the module height and length, to the point where the user would find the resulting bulky camera bump objectionable.

To address these issues, the industry has been looking for a solution that can achieve better results than traditional folded zoom structures. That’s AloP, a technology that employs a clever optical structure in which lenses sit horizontally upon the prism, remaining in the plane of the smartphone body. Using this approach, increasing the effective lens size (EPD) by increasing lens diameter brings a brighter image yet does not affect the camera module shoulder height. Moreover, it provides for a shorter module length by reducing the space needed for lenses in the folded camera module.

ALoP: features and benefits

Here are the key features and benefits AloP brings to smartphones:

Brightness. The novel optics design of ALoP accommodates an f/2.58 lens aperture at a focal length of 80mm. Differing from conventional folded camera optics, the lens in this case is placed ahead of the prism. In this way, ALoP can use a large aperture lens that promises low-noise portrait images in night shots.

Compact size. Thanks to the ALoP architecture, the module length can be shortened 22% with respect to conventional folded camera optics. More importantly, the ALoP takes up an especially low module height because it employs a 40˚-tilted prism reflection surface and 10˚-tilted sensor assembly. Taken together, these reduced dimensions make for a lower-profile camera bump and slimmer smartphone.

Aesthetics and ergonomics. Users generally find a thick smartphone camera bump objectionable. It not only makes the smartphone design unappealing but also harder to use when laid on a flat surface. Additionally, the shape of the lenses within the camera bump can be off-putting. In a smartphone using conventional folded camera optics, users see a rectangular prism that is cosmetically somewhat jarring to an otherwise sleek camera appearance. By contrast, in a smartphone adopting ALoP optics, users see only the expected circular lens shapes.

According to Younggyu Jeong, from Samsung’s Sensor Solutions Team, “smartphone cameras are rapidly evolving, but they haven’t yet surpassed DSLR capabilities due to size constraints. I believe new technologies will continue to emerge to close that gap, with technologies aimed at improving the image quality of telephoto cameras, which are disadvantaged in terms of form factor, at the forefront.”

“As a business” – he added -, “we anticipate the commercialization of various technologies to reduce F/#, increase zoom magnification, and reduce module size. We will continue to combine the differentiated hardware solutions of ISOCELL with AI-based software solutions to expand users’ mobile camera experiences.”

Don’t let the “gaming monitor” classification fool you. The two models announced may not be your next video or photo editing monitor solution, but the technology used will, no doubt, be added to future models and other segments. The 45GX990A and 45GX950A are 45-inch, 21:9 gaming monitors featuring ultra-high 5K2K resolution (5,120 x 2,160) – a first for OLED monitors, as of December 2024. According to LG, “their 21:9 aspect ratio offers a more immersive gaming experience than standard 16:9 displays, while maintaining better content compatibility than 32:9 monitors. The LG UltraGear OLED Gaming Monitor (model 45GX950A), for example, is a “gaming monitor” that, as LG notes, offer “generous screen real estate”, making it “a great choice not only for gaming but for various different uses.”

Both products feature LG’s second-generation Dual-Mode, offering customizable aspect ratios (21:9 or 16:9) and picture sizes (39-, 34- or 27-inches) with one-touch switching between preset screen-resolution and refresh-rate combos.

The LG UltraGear OLED Bendable Gaming Monitor (model 45GX990A) is the world’s first 5K2K-resolution bendable OLED display. The 45-inch monitor can smoothly transition from completely flat to a 900R curvature within seconds, offering users incredible flexibility and more control over their gaming experience. Its upgraded Dual-Mode feature allows users to switch effortlessly between resolution and refresh rate presets, and customize the aspect ratio and picture size. With an ultra-fast 0.03ms (GtG) response time, the 45GX990A ensures smooth gameplay and heightened immersion.

Another standout model from the new GX9 lineup is the LG UltraGear OLED Gaming Monitor (model 45GX950A), which LG announces as “the World’s First 45-Inch 5K2K OLED Gaming Monitor with 800R Curvature and DisplayPort 2.1”. With its curved (800R), 21:9 format 5K2K-resolution self-lit 45-inch panel, this display delivers sharp, lifelike images with the stunning colors and exceptional contrast LG OLED products are known for. Its 4-side Virtually Borderless design and slim bezels help boost users’ sense of immersion while adding a sleek aesthetic to any setup. Boasting 125 pixels per-inch (PPI) and an RGWB subpixel layout, the monitor improves the readability of in-game text and makes productivity tasks, such as editing documents or website content, that much easier.

Like its bendable sibling, the 45GX950A features Dual-Mode functionality with eight customizable configurations and supports DisplayPort 2.1, HDMI 2.1 and USB-C with 90W power delivery. This ensures seamless compatibility with the latest graphics cards and features such as variable refresh rate (VRR) while enabling convenient device charging. Certified by NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, the monitor has reduced screen tearing for a smoother, more responsive gaming experience.

For seamless streaming and immersive gaming

The brand-new LG UltraGear 39GX90SA is designed to deliver, LG claims, “stellar gaming and content-streaming experiences. Powered by webOS, it functions as a home entertainment hub, enabling users to access all their go-to streaming services without a PC or set-top box. It’s 39-inch, 21:9 aspect ratio curved (800R) OLED display produces brilliant, nuanced colors and deep, dark blacks, making it perfect for AAA games and HDR movies and series. Equipped with USB Type-C ports, it offers convenient connectivity, and incorporates LG’s ergonomic and space-saving L-shaped stand for a clutter-free desk setup.”

“The UltraGear GX9 series sets a new standard for OLED gaming monitors, combining groundbreaking display technology with smart features that expand and enhance the user experience,” said YS Lee, vice president and head of the IT Business Unit, LG Media Entertainment Solution Company. “From the world’s first 5K2K OLED gaming monitors with second-generation Dual-Mode to smart gaming monitors with built-in webOS, the GX9 lineup pushes the boundaries to deliver maximum value and enjoyment for our customers.”

Information is scarce, but according to the information shared by the HDMI Forum, the new HDMI specifications – which will deliver higher bandwidths and resolutions – will be revealed during a press conference at CES 2025, on January 6, the same day that NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang will deliver a keynote at CES 2025. Huang will deliver his keynote Monday, January 6, at 6:30 p.m.

CES 2025, which will take place in Las Vegas from January 7-10, 2025, is the stage where NVIDIA will announce its new RTX series, Blackwell. There is some speculation that the new RX 50 series (starting with the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090) will already include HDMI 2.2 (if that’s the final name for the new HDMI version). At CES 2025, AMD is also introducing its new graphics card, which reports name as Radeon RX 8000, a GPU that may also use the new HDMI specification.

The announcement from the HDMI Forum indicates that the new version will support higher resolutions, refresh rates and enhanced transmission quality… and a new cable. The actual HDMI 2.1 transmits data at up to 48Gbps, allowing for refresh rates of up to 120Hz at 4K resolution. It is expected that HDMI 2.2 will compete with DisplayPort 2.1, which can reach 80Gbps.

Studio Extreme will take participants on an immersive journey. As they step into the activation they will be transported to a location just outside Vegas, where they will be tasked to deliver a live news report. But will they be prepared for all the weather conditions that Vegas has to offer?

The immersive experience, which will be on display at CES 2025, is the result of a partnership between Disguise — the company behind the virtual production technology used on commercials for Apple Music and Lenovo, as well as feature film Daddio starring Sean Penn —, Nikon and its subsidiary MRMC. It aims to demonstrate how easily brands can create everything from social live streams to professional ads in a turnkey virtual production studio.

Nikon chose Studio Pro by Disguise to bring this activation to life. Designed for brands looking to tell powerful stories through immersive content, Studio Pro combines the most advanced virtual production technology with best-in-class creative and technical services, including 24/7 support, training and installation, enabling brands to shoot commercials, social media content, internal training material or important keynote or investor presentations — all from one stage on the same day.

“We’ve helped deliver 400 virtual production studios in more than 100 countries, and know just how transformational they can be for brands,” says Alexandra Coulson, VP of Marketing at Disguise. “Traditionally, however, LED technology required significant upfront training and investment, making it reserved for Hollywood studios. We are changing that. Together with Nikon and MRMC we are showcasing the possibilities at CES 2025. Attendees will experience firsthand how they can take their brand’s story to the next level, producing a versatile offering of content with our comprehensive powerhouse solution, Studio Pro.”

The technology behind the Studio Extreme activation
Visitors who step into the CES activation will be able to experience state-of-the-art virtual production technology including:

• Studio Pro — a turnkey studio solution by Disguise
• Studio Bot LT — MRMC’s most compact robotic camera arm solution
• RED Komodo 6K camera
• Lighting by Kino Flo
• L-Acoustics spatial audio

Once they complete their weather report, visitors will receive a personalized video downloadable via a QR code.

Visit the virtual production activation Studio Extreme at the Nikon booth 19504 in LVCC, Central Hall, at CES 2025.

Virtual Reality is about to take a new step forward with the introduction of new VR/MR headsets that promise to attract more people to experience what these technologies have to offer. One of the new headsets, announced as a “mystery product”, comes from DPVR, a company that has not delivered any exciting consumer solutions, despite its promises, so it will be interesting to see what this new announcement will bring. DPVR will be at CES 2025, showing the company’s products at Booth #15945 in the Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC).

The second VR headset now announced is the Pimax Dream Air, presented as the world’s smallest full-feature 8K resolution VR headset. With only 200g (strap included), a 102° FOV(H) on 27 million pixels, 3840 x 3552 pixels per eye at 90 Hz refresh rate, on micro-OLED panels, the new headset features head, hand and eye-tracking, integrated spatial audio, a Display Port connection, and a self-adjusting backstrap.

The Dream Air is a PCVR headset, and, according to Pimax, “borrows a lot of components from the previously announced Crystal Super, including the micro-OLED panels and pancake lenses — but packs this into a small form factor headset, to satisfy different use cases. It breaks with previous Pimax headsets, with a new design language, signalling the small form factor era for Pimax.”

Pimax Dream Air: is it real?

The Pimax Dream Air is a 6DoF tracking PCVR headset with inside-out tracking by default but Lighthouse compatible if you’ve the Steam base stations. Pimax – the company will be at CES 2025 –  reveals that the headset can become a standalone solution with the addition of Cobb, a standalone puck compute device being developed, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2 chip and a battery.

With a price starting at USD $1,900, the Pimax Dream Air will be available in May 2025, but the company is now taking pre-orders. Knowing Pimax’s previous history of announcing products that it does not deliver in time, and the many problems that users have with Pimax headsets, the Pimax Dream Air may be another example of as one user noted online… “Pimax being Pimax”.

Still, the Pimax Dream Air looks interesting, in terms of specifications and the fact that it promises to be a full-featured PCVR, with a DisplayPort interface for visually uncompressed images from the PC, which continues to be the best way to explore Virtual Reality. Will the Dream Air turn reality?

First Android XR headset comes from Samsung

The third VR headset coming in 2025 is much more appealing as it marks the return of Samsung to the VR market, where the company left a good impression with its Windows Mixed Reality headset, Odyssey, released in November 2017, following an announcement in October 2017. The Odyssey was the company’s first VR headset release, designed to work with Microsoft’s Windows Mixed Reality… which is now dead.

Microsoft put an end to its own Windows Mixed Reality, which it promoted in 2016 – when the company announced that multiple OEMs would release virtual reality headsets for the Windows Holographic platform -, and officially “killed” in December 2023, when the company announced deprecation of WMR with complete removal in a future release of Windows 11 version 24H2 expected to arrive in late-2024.

What this means is that owners of one of the 10 VR headsets launched (from companies as Samsung, Lenovo or Acer) since 2016 – the last one of them being the HP Reverb G2 – will own a mere paperweight when they update Windows 11. It’s Microsoft being Microsoft…

With WMR dead, a new “universal” platform is about to be born, and the first VR headset designed for it is Samsung’s Project Moohan. In fact, Samsung Project Moohan is the first Android XR headset to make it to the market. And Google says that more devices are coming for the new operating system built for this next generation of computing, created in partnership with Samsung and Qualcomm. Android XR combines years of investment in AI, AR and VR to bring helpful experiences to headsets and glasses, promising a platform to extend your reality to explore, connect and create in new ways.

Android XR platform supports OpenXR

Google says that the company is “working to create a vibrant ecosystem of developers and device makers for Android XR, building on the foundation that brought Android to billions” and that the preview of the new operating system made available to developers will allow them to start building apps and games for upcoming Android XR devices. Google also revealed that “Qualcomm partners like Lynx, Sony and XREAL, we are opening a path for the development of a wide array of Android XR devices to meet the diverse needs of people and businesses. And we are continuing to collaborate with Magic Leap on XR technology and future products with AR and AI.”

One important aspect of the new Android XR platform is that it will support OpenXR, which is a royalty-free, open standard that provides a common set of APIs for developing XR applications that run across a wide range of AR and VR devices, reducing the time and cost required for developers to adapt solutions to individual XR platforms while also creating a larger market of easily supported applications for device manufacturers that adopt OpenXR.

The Khronos Group, promoters of the OpenXR standard, said that “most major XR platforms have transitioned to using OpenXR to expose current and future device capabilities. Vendors with conformant OpenXR implementations include Acer, ByteDance, Canon, HTC, Magic Leap, Meta, Microsoft, Sony, XREAL, Qualcomm, Valve, Varjo, and Collabora’s Monado open source runtime. OpenXR is also supported by all the major game and rendering engines, including Autodesk VRED, Blender, Godot, NVIDIA’s Omniverse, StereoKit, Unreal Engine, and Unity.”

According to Google, “with headsets, you can effortlessly switch between being fully immersed in a virtual environment and staying present in the real world. You can fill the space around you with apps and content, and with Gemini, our AI assistant, you can even have conversations about what you’re seeing or control your device. Gemini can understand your intent, helping you plan, research topics and guide you through tasks.”

The company says that it is also “reimagining some of your favorite Google apps for headsets. You can watch YouTube and Google TV on a virtual big screen, or relive your cherished memories with Google Photos in 3D. You’ll be able to explore the world in new ways with Google Maps, soaring above cities and landmarks in Immersive View. And with Chrome, multiple virtual screens will let you multitask with ease. You can even use Circle to Search to quickly find information on whatever’s in front of you, with just a simple gesture.”

Android XR will also support glasses for all-day help in the future. Google notes that the company wants “there to be lots of choices of stylish, comfortable glasses you’ll love to wear every day and that work seamlessly with your other Android devices. Glasses with Android XR will put the power of Gemini one tap away, providing helpful information right when you need it — like directions, translations or message summaries without reaching for your phone. It’s all within your line of sight, or directly in your ear.”

Android XR: an open, unified platform for XR

Android XR is designed to be an open, unified platform for XR headsets and glasses. For users, this means more choice of devices and access to apps they already know and love. For developers, it’s a unified platform with opportunities to build experiences for a wide range of devices using familiar Android tools and frameworks.

One question remains, though: will Android XR become the “universal” platform for Virtual Reality experiences? Or will Google tire of it and add one more name to the list of abandoned projects, which includes Chromecast, YouTube VR, Google Cardboard,  Google Daydream. VR180 Creator or Stadia. In fact, Google and Microsoft both have a proven track record of projects abandoned.

Still, with OpenXR supported, Samsung’s Project Moohan is, as the company puts it, “one of our most ambitious endeavors yet”, the first headset designed for Android XR. The name “Moohan”, meaning ‘infinity’ in Korean, connotes Samsung’s belief in delivering unparalleled, immersive experiences within an infinite space. According to Samsung, “equipped with state-of-the-art displays, passthrough capabilities and natural multi-modal input, this headset will be your spatial canvas to explore the world through Google Maps, enjoy a sports match on YouTube or plan trips with the help of Gemini. All these experiences come with lightweight, ergonomically optimized hardware designed to ensure maximum comfort during use.”

Virtual Desktop can be ported to Android XR

“XR has quickly shifted from a distant promise to a tangible reality. We believe it has the potential to unlock new and meaningful ways to interact with the world by truly resonating with your everyday lives, transcending physical boundaries,” said Won-Joon Choi, EVP and Head of R&D, Mobile eXperience Business. “We are excited to collaborate with Google to reshape the future of XR, taking our first step towards it with Project Moohan.”

“We are at an inflection point for the XR, where breakthroughs in multimodal AI enable natural and intuitive ways to use technology in your everyday life”, said Sameer Samat, President of Android Ecosystem, Google. “We’re thrilled to partner with Samsung to build a new ecosystem with Android XR, transforming computing for everyone on next-generation devices like headsets, glasses and beyond.”

First revealed in February 2023 when Google, Samsung and Qualcomm announced that they would co-develop an XR device, the Project Moohan headset continues to be a mystery in terms of specifications. All that is known right now is that it uses a Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 processor, a more powerful version of the chip in Quest 3 and Quest 3S, suggesting it’s a standalone device, so quite different from Pimax’s Dream Air, a native PCVR headset. Still, as Project Moohan is compatible with OpenXR, it will also be easy to use as a wireless PCVR solution, as it will be able to run Virtual Desktop, the most popular software for wireless experiences on headsets as the Quest, HTC Vive or Pico 4.

Guy Godin, developer of Virtual Desktop, revealed to website UploadVR that bringing his native OpenXR app to Android XR “took only a few hours and the basics just worked out of the box”, adding this: ”Personally I think it’s refreshing to work with a platform that wants to collaborate with developers rather than one who tries to block and copy us. Grateful to have more options for consumers in the near future and I’m very excited to bring the best PC streaming solution to Android XR.”

The new low price on the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K makes it even easier to shoot with Hollywood digital film quality or to set up a high quality broadcast studio with ATEM Mini. Featuring a 4/3 image sensor with 4096 x 2160 resolution and an MFT lens mount, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K allows customers to capture wide dynamic range, Hollywood quality, digital film images. Plus it’s the perfect studio camera with tally when combined with ATEM Mini.

Here is some more information to help you decide if this is the camera for you… or the filmmaker you love:

The elegant design of the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera packs an incredible number of high end digital film features into a miniaturized, handheld design. Made from lightweight carbon fiber polycarbonate composite, the camera features a multifunction handgrip with all controls for recording, ISO, WB and shutter angle right at customers’ fingertips. Because it’s an advanced digital film camera, the sensor is designed to reduce thermal noise allowing cleaner shadows and higher ISO. Plus the large 5 inch LCD makes it possible to get perfect focus at 4K resolutions.

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera also works as a studio camera for live production when used with ATEM Mini. Video and control is via the HDMI connection, which is available as soon as customers plug the cameras in. The record light becomes a tally light so customers can see which camera is on air. The ATEM Software Control camera page has a camera control unit (CCU) style interface for adjusting and matching their cameras. Move the CCU control vertically for iris and left to right to adjust black level. It’s the same as a broadcast CCU. There are also controls for color tint to balance camera as well as focus, gain and shutter speed. Customers can even ISO record Blackmagic RAW in the camera for editing later.

With the advanced Blackmagic OS, customers get an intuitive and user friendly camera operating system based on the latest technology. The interface uses simple tap and swipe gestures to adjust settings, add metadata and view recording status. Customers also get full control over advanced camera features such as on screen focus and exposure tools, 3D LUTs, HDR, metadata entry, timecode, Blackmagic RAW settings and more.

Whether users are shooting in bright sunlight or in almost no light at all, the 13 stops of dynamic range with dual native ISO up to 25,600 provide stunning low noise images in all lighting conditions. Customers can shoot up to 60 fps or 120 fps windowed. An amazing sensor combined with Blackmagic color science means customers get the same imaging technology as the most expensive digital film cameras.

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera features a large, bright 5 inch touchscreen that makes it easy for customers to frame shots and accurately focus. On screen overlays show status and record parameters, histogram, focus peaking indicators, levels, frame guides and more.

Featuring the same generation 5 color science as the high end Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K, the Pocket Cinema Camera 4K delivers an even greater advancement in image quality with stunning, accurate skin tones and faithful color in every shot. Customers get a dynamic 12-bit gamma curve designed to capture more color data in the highlights and shadows, for better looking images. The color science also handles some of the complex Blackmagic RAW image processing, so color and dynamic range data from the sensor is preserved via metadata which customers can adjust in post production.

All Pocket Cinema Camera models include a full version of DaVinci Resolve Studio, which is the same software used in Hollywood for creating high end feature films, episodic television shows, commercials and more. DaVinci Resolve features the new cut page with intelligent editing tools and innovative new features designed to help customers quickly find the footage customers want, edit it together and output it fast. In addition to the new cut page, customers also get DaVinci’s legendary professional editing, advanced color correction, audio post and visual effects tools, all in a single software application.

“The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K has been popular with customers as both a digital film camera and also a studio camera when used with ATEM Mini switchers. It has wide dynamic range for digital film and DaVinci Resolve color science, but it also has a color corrector built in, tally and remote control for live production,” said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO. “We have been working hard on our manufacturing processes and have lowered the cost of production even further, so we can now pass that on to people through a lower price. It’s quite exciting because we have a fantastic solution to bring digital film quality to everyone!”

Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K Features

• Designed from carbon fiber polycarbonate composite.
• Full size 4/3 sized sensor with native 4096 x 2160 resolution sensor.
• Works as a studio camera when connected to ATEM Mini.
• Compatible with extremely high quality Micro Four Thirds lenses.
• Super wide 13 stops of dynamic range for capturing high end feature film look.
• Up to 25,600 ISO for incredible low light performance.
• Multi function grip for quick access to recording start/stop, ISO, shutter, aperture, white balance, power and more.
• USB-C expansion port for recording directly to an external SSD or flash disk.
• Standard open file formats compatible with popular software.
• Features full size HDMI output for monitoring with camera status graphic overlay.
• Professional mini XLR inputs with 48 volt phantom power.
• 3.5mm audio jack, headphone jack, and locking DC 12 volt power connection.
• Built in 5” LCD touchscreen allows accurate focus when shooting 4K.
• LCD supports on screen overlays including status, histogram and focus peaking.
• Records 4K images at up to 60 fps and windowed HD at up to 120 fps.
• 3D LUTs can be applied for both monitoring and recording.
• Blackmagic OS as used in URSA Mini and URSA Broadcast cameras.
• Includes Blackmagic Generation 5 Color Science.
• Supports remote camera control via Bluetooth.
• Includes full DaVinci Resolve Studio for post production.

As noted at the start of this news piece, the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K is available immediately for US$995 from Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide. All prices exclude local duties and taxes.

Crafted from Matthews’ signature black Cordura fabric, RoadBags are built to withstand the toughest conditions, whether in the studio or out in the field. The inner pockets feature spill-proof lining, ensuring maximum durability. Once sand is added to the pouches, the RoadBags’ double-Velcro enclosure provides a secure seal to minimize leaks yet makes them easy to load for work and unload the contents for lightweight transport.

These new durable fillable sandbags, available in three sizes, deliver reliable, travel-friendly support for on set or on location, designed to meet the demands of production professionals. Designed to pair seamlessly with Matthews’ RoadRags, RoadRags II, RoadFlags II, and Trio C+ Kit these sandbags are an essential companion for any production setup… by just adding sand!

Each RoadBag is equipped with a D-ring, secured by Matthews-branded durable webbing, allowing the bag to be used as a counterweight or for lofty fixture setups. The webbing also doubles as a convenient handle for easy placement on set.

Priced at $27.00, RoadBags are now available for purchase through Matthews Studio Equipment authorized dealers worldwide. They make for a nice Christmas gift suggestion for the filmmaker you love.

Following the success of the S35 1.5x anamorphic series of the same name, the new lineup introduced by Laowa (Venus Optics) includes lenses in 32/42/55/85mm with a constant T2.9 aperture and various mount options. The mount options include ARRI PL and optional Canon EF plus other mirrorless mount options. These professional lenses can cover the Alexa LF sensor in Open Gate format and offer exceptional image quality with low distortion. Each weigh about 1kg and come in blue, silver, and amber flare versions. Some wider lenses can focus up to 49cm / 1’7″, providing a great depth of field for doing “mesmerizing bokeh shots”, according to Laowa.

The company claims that “the Nanomorph 1.5x Series targets delivering exceptional image quality for theatrical and high-end film projects. This series redefines anamorphic capabilities with easy access for a broad scope of filmmakers.”

Here are some more details about the new lenses:

Consistent 1.5x Squeeze Ratio

With a 1.5x squeeze ratio, you will achieve a 2.66:1 aspect ratio on a 16:9 sensor after de-squeezing. Compared to a 1.33x anamorphic lens, the Laowa Nanomorph 1.5x Series delivers a much more pronounced anamorphic and cinematic look. With a 1.8x or 2x squeeze ratio, the size of the lens would also be significantly larger, and much of the image is wasted when paired with a 16:9 sensor.

Less-distorted Natural Oval Bokeh

The 1.5x squeeze ratio delivers signature anamorphic characteristics. Creating a smooth, organic waterfall focus roll-off in the background and is one of the most sought-after traits in the film industry. In contrast to other anamorphic lenses on the market, where bokeh can shift from center to edge and sometimes appear distorted, this latest innovation from Laowa ensures greater uniformity across the frame, making it perfect for creating immersive visuals without distractions.

Distortion Control

Anamorphic lenses often exhibit significant distortion near the edges of the frame, making it challenging to position subjects or objects close to the frame’s borders. While this issue can be addressed in post-production, it often requires considerable effort and may not be fully correctable. The Nanomorph LF 1.5x Anamorphic Series offers improved edge distortion control, providing greater flexibility when composing shots across the entire frame.

Outstanding Image Quality for Theatrical Productions

Designed for various production environments, the Nanomorph LF series offers sharp image quality to hold up on big screens, even wide open. It gives filmmakers ample room for creative post-production work, giving extra flexibility in creativity.

Compact Design for Flexible Shooting

With a focus on practicality, and the ability to cover large-format cameras, the Nanomorph LF lenses are still smaller and lighter than similar lenses on the market. This makes the series an ideal fit for versatile shooting setups, from handheld rigs to stabilized systems, or even drones, offering the freedom to tell dynamic stories.

Minimized Focus Breathing for Seamless Framing

The Nanomorph LF series is engineered with exceptionally well-controlled focus breathing, ensuring consistent framing even during focus transitions. This critical feature allows filmmakers to maintain visual stability and immersion, eliminating the distracting shifts in framing often seen in traditional anamorphic lenses. Whether capturing dramatic close-ups or sweeping focus pulls, the Nanomorph LF delivers a smooth and professional cinematic experience.

Variety of Flare Options

The Nanomorph LF series offers a variety of flare coatings—amber, blue, and silver—allowing filmmakers to adapt the lens to their creative vision. Whether seeking a classic blue flare or a more neutral look, the Nanomorph LF series delivers versatile options for every project.

Enhanced Precision with Extended Focus Throw

The Nanomorph LF series boasts an impressive 270° focus throw, providing unparalleled precision when making focus adjustments. This extended range gives filmmakers greater control over the depth of field and focus effects, enabling seamless transitions and intricate focus pulls.

Effortless Back Focus Calibration

Shimming is often a time-consuming task during production. With the Nanomorph LF series, you can easily adjust the back focus and calibrate your lens on-site, thanks to its built-in back-focus mechanism.

Versatile Interchangeable Mount System

Flexibility and versatility are at the core of the Nanomorph LF’s design. Its interchangeable mount system allows users to switch between mounts effortlessly, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cameras. The lenses come with a default Arri PL mount, a staple for professional cinema setups. Additionally, optional bayonets are available for purchase, offering even greater adaptability to meet diverse production needs.

According to Laowa, the Nanomorph LF 1.5x Anamorphic Series offers optical performance comparable to high-end lenses but at a significantly more affordable price, making cinematic, high-quality visuals more attainable for filmmakers. The series is now available for pre-order through authorized Laowa retailers. In the US, the Laowa Nanomorph LF 1.5x Anamorphic lenses are priced at $1,499 each or $5,399 for a 4-lens set. Prices may vary by region.

The new lens from Viltrox is lighter than most smartphones yet delivers professional-grade performance. Despite its compact size and surprisingly light weight, the lens boasts an advanced optical structure with 11 elements in 9 groups, including extra-low dispersion (ED) glass and aspheric elements to minimize distortion and chromatic aberration. A multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting, ensuring vivid, sharp, and natural colors in every shot. The nine-blade aperture produces smooth and artistic bokeh, making it an excellent choice for photographers experimenting with creative compositions.

A standout feature of the Viltrox AF 35mm F1.7 Air is its wide F1.7 aperture in a small package. It can be used for portraits, landscapes, street scenes, or still life shots. This makes the lens even more versatile, excelling even in low-light photography, portrait sessions, and the use of creative background blur. On the other hand, the built-in Stepping Motor (STM) provides fast, silent, and accurate autofocus, while intuitive eye and face detection support make photography effortless.

Tailored for APS-C cameras, the Viltrox AF 35mm F1.7 Air has an equivalent full-frame focal length of approximately 52mm, offering a natural perspective that’s perfect for portraits, landscapes, street photography, and everyday moments, making it the perfect companion for photographers seeking their first upgrade. It’s an affordable and compact lens designed to help beginner photographers elevate their skills beyond the limitations of kit lenses, but also a lens for creatives who want to travel light.

The Viltrox AF 35mm F1.7 Air is available online from the Viltrox store and Viltrox Amazon store with a price of US$179 (15% off from Dec 18th-30th during Christmas Boxing Day).

The two new cameras could be fantastic gifts for this season, but the Lumix G97 and TZ99 will only be available mid to late February 2025, so you’ll have to look elsewhere for cameras to give as gifts. Or wait for these models to be available to offer a late Christmas present. Whatever your decision, these are some interesting new products from Panasonic. Let’s take a quick look at what they offer, following the information shared by Panasonic.

Panasonic Lumix G97

The Panasonic G97 Features the same slim dust and splash resistant camera body as the previous G90. It is a versatile hybrid mirrorless camera designed for both photography and video enthusiasts and features a 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and 4K video recording capabilities. With a weather-sealed body, a fully articulating touchscreen, and advanced video features like V-Log L and S&Q mode, the G97 is ideal for content creators seeking portability and performance.

The new camera includes several updates, including enhanced video capabilities in S&Q (Slow and Quick motion) mode, a favourite among content creators for its ability to simplify workflows by delivering slow or fast motion effects directly in-camera without the need for external editing tools. Other features include vertical shooting support and a REC image indicator. Additionally, the back of the camera now boasts a new 3-inch display with improved resolution and better visibility from all angles.

The new camera also comes with Bluetooth V5.0 which ensures a faster and more secure transfer of images and video to mobile or tablet. There is also the possibility to programme a button to send images directly to a smartphone. The camera be powered with a powerbank via USB-C.

Panasonic Lumix TZ99

The Panasonic TZ99 offers a compact and pocket-sized design while maintaining powerful features for travel and everyday photography. Equipped with a 30x optical zoom LEICA DC lens (24-720mm equivalent) and 5-axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ stabilization, it ensures sharp and detailed images, even at extreme zoom levels. This versatile travel companion also supports 4K video recording at 30p and HD high-speed video at 120fps, making it ideal for capturing unmissable moments with precision and clarity. Just like the G97 the new TZ99 also features vertical shooting support and a REC frame indicator.

The TZ99 introduces travel-ready updates, including an improved 1,840k-dot tiltable monitor, perfect for selfies and vlogging, and USB Type-C battery charging for convenient power access on the go. These enhancements provide photographers and videographers with a seamless experience during their adventures.

New connectivity features include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth V5.0 for instant image sharing. A dedicated smartphone send-image button allows for fast and effortless transfer of photos and videos to your mobile device.

The new LUMIX TZ99 (or ZS99 in some markets) will be available in black (DC-ZS99E-K) and silver (DC-ZS99E-S) in mid-February 2025 for $499.99. The new LUMIX G97 will be available in late February 2025 for $849.99 for a 12-60mm lens kit (DC-G97MK).