OPPO enables Singaporeans to #UncoverTheUltimate experience

Global smart device provider OPPO last week unveiled its latest suite of smartphones which see the brand’s first 5G offering, the Find X2 Pro 5G, and an addition to its creative Reno series, the Reno3.

The unveiling comes off the back of the brand’s global online launch of the Find X2 series on March 6. Boasting a 120 Hz QHD AMOLED screen, the fastest 65 W SuperVOOC Flash Charge 2.0 technology, and powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, the Find X2 Pro delivers an upgraded wholistic photography and video experience.

In addition, OPPO Singapore’s 1st 5G offering is equipped with the Ultra Vision Camera System, featuring a combination of a 48 MP wide-angle lens, 48 MP ultrawide-angle lens and a 13 MP periscope telephoto camera that allows for the phone’s 10x hybrid zoom and 60x digital zoom capabilities.

Combined with the customised IMX689 sensor exclusively created by Sony, the phone’s All Pixel Omni-directional phase detection autofocus (PDAF) technology achieves 100% pixel focusing and makes it the first smartphone to support 12-bit photo capture.

“OPPO is dedicated to delivering the best products to enhance the lives of our users,” shared Moon Yue, CEO, OPPO Singapore. “With the Find X2 Pro we are looking to provide users with a wholistic 5G experience that we believe will set a new standard for flagship smartphones.”

Source: OPPO. The Reno3 Series has two models.

The Reno3 Series comprises the Reno3 and the Reno3 Pro. Powered by the all new ColorOS 7, the Reno3 features a 44 MP front camera while the Reno3 Pro packs OPPO’s latest technology advances and outstanding photography into the world’s first 44 MP + 2 MP Dual Punch-hole Super AMOLED display. The sensors for a punch-hole camera resides in a hole that has been created in the display, which is considered less distracting for users than creating a notch that disrupts the rectangular outline of a display.

The Reno3 is ideal for anyone looking to capture great images under any lighting condition. It has a 48 MP Ultra-Clear Main Camera, 8 MP Ultra Wide-Angle lens that captures 109-degree images, 13 MP Telephoto lens, and 2 MP Mono lens.

The Reno3 Pro runs on MediaTek’s Helio P95, a chipset with an artificial intelligence (AI) processing engine for 4G smartphones. Premium photography experiences that can be enjoyed include enhanced portrait photography, fast secure facial recognition and full-body movement tracking.

The Reno3 Pro also comes with a 64 MP Zoom Quadcam which includes a 64 MP Ultra-clear Main Camera, 13 MP Telephoto Lens, 8 MP Ultra Wide-Angle lens and 2 MP Mono Lens. Both phones feature Optical-Flow Sub-Pixel Registration which matches and calibrates the sub-pixels on different frames to generate a lower-pixel original image with more information. With Subpixel Interpolation, the original image is then transformed into a high-resolution image of up to 108 MP.

In the front, the Reno 3’s 44 MP Ultra-Clear Main Camera and Reno3 Pro’s 44 MP+2 MP Dual Punch-hole technology deliver high-definition, natural selfies. OPPO has added Ultra Night Mode in the front cameras. Ultra Night Selfie Mode guarantees facial clarity and brightness in dim light. Reno3 Pro’s dual lens bokeh also enables better image matting and background gradients for selfies.

As with its predecessors, the Reno3 series also features Ultra Dark Mode, 5x Hybrid Zoom, 20x Digital Zoom as well as Ultra Steady Video 2.0.

Details:

• The Find X2 Pro 5G comes in Black (Ceramic) and Orange (Vegan Leather) with 12 GB RAM and 512 GB ROM. It costs S$1,699. The phone will be available for preorder  till 27 March on OPPO’s Shopee Flagship Store and at all OPPO Concept Stores.

• Customers who preorder the Find X2 will receive a NESCAFE Dolce Gusto Lumio Coffee Machine worth SS$219, a pair of OPPO Enco Free Headphones worth SS$189.

• The phone will be available islandwide from 28 March at Singtel, StarHub and M1 stores, OPPO Concept Stores, OPPO Shopee and Lazada Flagship Stores. It is covered by OPPO’s international warranty.

• The Reno3 will be available in Midnight Black and Sky White with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB ROM. It costs S$499. The phone will be available islandwide from 28 March.

• The Reno3 Pro will come in Auroral Blue and Midnight Black with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB ROM and will be available from 10 April.

• OPPO will be conducting a trade-in programme for OPPO users as well as select phone brands that will see discounts of up to S$1,000 for selected models. More information can be found at OPPO’s Facebook Page (@oppo).

• As part of its efforts to enable Singaporeans to #UncoverTheUltimate Experience, OPPO will be conducting the #UncoverTheUltimate Consumer Trial that will see Singaporeans have the chance to try before they buy.

Hashtag: #UncoverTheUltimate

Shoot better pictures with Sony's GPVPT2BT wireless shooting grip

Sony has announced the new GPVPT2BT wireless shooting grip. The new grip offers optimum stability and comfort combined with cable-free connectivity and a reliable dust- and moisture-resistant design*.

Source: Sony. The GP-VPT2BT with Alpha 6600 (α6600) and SELP1650.

Compatible with a variety of Sony’s latest digital cameras**, the GP-VPT2BT connects via Bluetooth, allowing users to aim and shoot without interfering cables or exposed inputs. The new grip includes a tilt feature that allows for flexible vertical angle adjustment as well as the ability to switch from normal to self-shooting mode with ease.

Additionally, its adjustment wheel can be loosened or tightened to accommodate cameras of different sizes and weights. The grip also includes a flip button, indicator light and lock switch, and can be quickly changed into a tripod by simply expanding the bottom portion, enabling stable, handsfree shooting.


GP-VPT2BT with Alpha 7III and SEL35F18F

Details:

The GP-VPT2BT Wireless Shooting Grip will be available at selected Sony Stores, Sony Centres and Sony authorised dealers from end-January 2020.

*Not guaranteed to be 100% dust- and moisture-proof. 

**Compatible with α9 II, α9, α7R IV, α7R III, α7 III, α6600, α6400, α6100, RX100 VII, and RX0 II. Firmware must be updated on cameras to ensure compatibility.

Canon’s EOS M6 Mark II delivers superior movie-making

Source: Canon the EOS M6 Mark II.

Canon has launched the EOS M6 Mark II, the latest addition to the EOS M series of mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera family. The EOS M6 Mark II is a stylish, lightweight and compact camera, almost half the weight of a mid-range DSLR, while measuring less than half its size.

“True to the Canon EOS M Series, the EOS M6 Mark II features its signature compact and lightweight body, with new and improved features so our users don’t miss out on the important moments in life,” said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore.

“In order to cater to the growing popularity of videography and vlogging, the EOS M6 Mark II comes with top-of-the-line functions that enable users to expound on their creativity and explore limitless filming possibilities.”

Enhanced with fast-locking and fast-tracking autofocus for capturing unexpected moments, the EOS M6 Mark II’s compact and lightweight body also contains a 32.5-megapixel APSC CMOS sensor to ensure vibrant and detailed images under low-light or high-contrast conditions. Through the EVF-DC2, Touch and Drag AF allows users to move their focus point around with a finger on the LCD while still keeping their eye on the viewfinder.

Powered by Canon’s latest DIGIC 8 image processor, the EOS M6 Mark II is designed with Canon’s proprietary Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus. High-precision AF Tracking and Eye-Detection AF, means subjects constantly in motion will stay in focus. With up to 5,481 AF positions to choose from, users will have all the flexibility they need.

Boasting a low-light focusing limit of EV-5, the EOS M6 Mark II is able to focus on subjects with high precision in dark conditions, such as a dimly-lit street or at home with soft lighting. The EOS M6 Mark II is also capable of up to 30 fps continuous shooting in RAW burst mode. The EOS M6 Mark II’s electronic shutter ensures photographers can shoot stealthily and confidently without having to worry about the shutter sound startling or disrupting their subjects.

With the option to shoot 4K movies with no cropping, users will be able to get the full field of view of their lens. The EOS M6 Mark II also allows users to produce super slow-motion scenes by shooting at 120p/100p in full high definition (FHD). Users can now shoot wide-angle footage of events and slow them down stylistically.

With the camera’s 3" tilting LCD, which tilts downwards by 45 degrees and upwards to 180 degrees, users will be able to shoot from new angles. The EOS M6 Mark II’s five-axis movie digital image stabilisation reduces camera shakes for clearer, sharper videos, even when the user or the camera is moving.

To ensure top audio quality, users also have the option of utilising the built-in microphone, or mounting an external mic to record ambient sounds and dialogue between subjects.

The EOS M6 Mark II further supports the use of the optional Electronic Viewfinder EVF-DC2, allowing users to check on image framing and or adjust picture settings while keeping the camera close for steady shooting. This option particularly comes in handy when shooting under strong lighting conditions, where potential glare and reflection on the LCD screen might be a problem.
 
For connectivity the EOS M6 Mark II has users sorted with Bluetooth Low Energy technology and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. Transferring 4K videos from the camera is also a cinch, as they will be automatically compressed to Full HD before transferring.

Additionally, compatible devices like smartphones can be turned into live viewfinders and even be used as a remote control to capture images on the camera with the Canon Camera Connect app.

Exclusive collaboration with Doraemon 

Canon has partnered with the iconic Doraemon, a popular cartoon character. Synonymous with the robotic cat’s ability to travel through time, Canon’s imaging products will help capture moments in time for users as precious memories they can revisit. The EOS M6 Mark II will be bundled with a limited edition Doraemon bag worth S$159 and camera strap worth S$89. Customers who purchase the EOS M6 Mark II, EOS M50 or EOS M100 will be eligible to redeem the premiums from October onwards.

Selected PowerShot G series cameras (G1X Mark III, G3X, G5X Mark II, G7X Mark III, G7X Mark II or G9X Mark II) will also be bundled with a limited edition Doraemon bag worth S$109 and wrist strap worth S$50. Customers who have purchased the selected PowerShot G Series from 5 September 2019 onwards are eligible to redeem the exclusive premiums from Canon’s Customer Care Centre.

Details:

The new EOS M6 Mark II in Black and Silver will be available at all authorised Canon dealers at the following recommended retail price at the end of September.

EOS M6 Mark II body: S$1,249
EOS M6 Mark II body with EF-M15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM: S$1,409
EOS M6 Mark II body with EF-M18150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM: S$1,849

STM stands for Canon's stepper motor technology.

HUAWEI P30 sells out on first day in Singapore

The HUAWEI P30 Series made its debut at VivoCity in Singapore yesterday, where the phone was sold out by noon. Hundreds were in line to buy the the latest flagship in Huawei's photography-first smartphone family, with the first in line queuing as early as 9 pm the day before.

Since its global launch in France last week, the Huawei P30 Series had become known for its integrated Leica Quad Camera, a world’s first, with industry-leading zoom capabilities and low-light performance.

Yvelyn Tey was first in line with get fiance to buy the phone. She will be using a Huawei smartphone for the first time.

She said, “I started to know about Huawei since its launch of its previous Mate 20 Series and I have heard great reviews of the phone ever since. My fiancé has also been raving to me about the cameras on Huawei. I often use my phone to take photos so having a good camera is really key for me. When I heard about the night mode of the P30 Series, I was very impressed.”

Next in line was another couple, Valerie Kang and her boyfriend camped overnight for the Huawei P30 Series. “When we saw how the Mate 20 Series was sold out so quickly last year, we decided to arrive early last night to be safe so that we can get our P30 Pro together,” said Kang.

“We have never used a Huawei before and we are very excited to use the camera because of the good reviews that we have read online.”
Francis Toh, decided to switch to Huawei after being convinced by his wife, Mrs Amy Toh, who has used the Huawei Mate 10 and P20 Pro. He said, “When I compared the images taken from my phone and my wife’s, I was very amazed with the detail and the difference was very obvious. I decided to follow the updates for the latest Huawei products so that I can plan my purchase ahead. I think what really makes the P30 Pro stand out for me is the low-light photography and zoom capabilities that no other phone has ever introduced.”

The Huawei P30 Pro was also lauded among the crowd for its 50x digital zoom capabilities that can capture objects on camera as far as approximately 580 m away, a breakthrough for the smartphone industry.

“Innovative technologies have always been the hallmark of our brand. The new Huawei P30 Series features outstanding camera upgrades ahead of its time that will enable more freedom and room for creativity among users to capture the best moments in life,” said Xu Chengfei, MD of Huawei Consumer Business Group Singapore.

“The response at our public launch today has exceeded our expectations and is testament to consumers’ confidence in our line of smartphones. The Huawei P30 Series is our best-seller yet and we look forward to providing our customers with more quality and innovative products.”

The Huawei P30 Pro tops the charts in DxOMark’s Photo and Video categories with an all-time high score of 112 and 97 points respectively.

Further adding to Huawei’s smartphone photography credentials, the Huawei P30 Pro was recently recognised by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) as Best Photo Smartphone. The crowning jewel of the HUAWEI P30 Pro rests in its world’s first Leica Quad Camera that is equipped with a revolutionary RYYB colour filter array, empowering photography enthusiasts to capture stunning images even in the dark.

Source: Huawei. The queues to buy the HUAWEI P30 in Singapore.

In 2018, global sales revenue for Huawei's consumer business reached RMB348.9 billion, up 45.1% year-on-year. In Singapore, Huawei has doubled its sales from the previous year. Huawei also emerged in the list of top five brands in the YouGov Brand Index for most improved brand sentiment in 2018.

Details:

The HUAWEI P30 Series is available in Singapore at all Huawei Concept Stores, local telecommunication operators, authorised mobile retailers, selected consumer electronic stores and online marketplaces.

Those who purchase the HUAWEI P30 Series will be entitled to a two-year warranty and enjoy premium services under the HICARE PRESTIGE package which includes:

●       One year door-to-door repair pick-up and delivery service

●       Two years warranty

●       Three months screen insurance*

*Terms and conditions apply.

Canon adds second camera to mirrorless EOS R range, shares RF lens roadmap

Canon has launched the EOS RP, its second in the new EOS R range of full-frame interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras.

The most compact and lightest model in the EOS full-frame series, the EOS RP offers outstanding performance. It features the new RF lens mount and Canon proprietary technology, including a DIGIC 8 image processor with Dual Pixel CMOS AF that delivers unparalleled optical excellence.

Weighing 485 g and built significantly smaller than other EOS cameras, the EOS RP is easier to handle, especially for users who are new to full-frame cameras. For users who prefer more heft, an optional Extension Grip (EG-E1) can ensure firmer handling.

EOS RP’s Vari-angle touch-screen LCD screen offers users the opportunity to shoot from unusual angles and to try out unique framing. Armed with a customisable electronic viewfinder (EVF) that provides 100% coverage, EOS RP’s EVF has a 2.36 million-dot OLED display, especially useful when working under bright and glaring conditions.

"The sister to Canon's first full-frame mirrorless camera EOS R, the new camera is designed for photography enthusiasts and amateur photographers with its compact and lightweight body at an attractive price," said Edwin Teoh, Head of Marketing, Singapore Operations, Canon Singapore.

"Inspired by the French word 'populaire', which means 'popular', the EOS RP was created with the vision that it would become the everyday consumer's go-to camera for superb quality images."

Powered by Canon’s EOS R System, the EOS RP is equipped with the RF lens mount introduced in the EOS R. The RF mount sports a short-flange focal distance of 20 mm and was designed to allow more possibilities in lens design and innovation. Existing EOS users can still utilise their existing collection of EF and EF-S lenses using the optional mount adapter.

The EOS RP embodies the familiar strengths of Canon’s EOS performance and excellent ergonomics. Driven by Canon’s DIGIC 8 image processor, the EOS RP is able to deliver excellent image quality in any situation. Its Auto Lighting Optimiser feature balances the brightest and darkest points to accentuate the details of the images, delivering a well-exposed image, even in backlit conditions. The EOS RP is equipped with a 26.2-megapixel Full-Frame CMOS sensor to capture vivid images with crisp details. Its native ISO range of 100-40,000, which can be expanded to ISO range of 50-102,400, produces low-noise images with rich details, even in low-light conditions.

Corrects aberrations, diffraction and optical distortions

The Dual Sensing IS of the EOS RP detects camera shakes from its gyroscopic sensor and the CMOS sensor provides image stabilisation that allows users to capture images at shutter speed of up to five stops slower, most useful especially in low-light situations. The in-camera Digital Lens Optimiser corrects aberrations, diffraction and optical distortions as you shoot, producing excellent image quality right out of the camera.

Equipped with the Dual Pixel CMOS AF that provides smooth and lightning-fast autofocus speed of up to 0.05 seconds, users can capture fleeting moments. Users are also free to create unique compositions using the 4,779 selectable AF positions within an expanded AF area that covers approximately 100% vertically and 88% horizontally of the frame. The minimum AF luminance of EV -5 of EOS RP provides accurate focus even in poorly-lit conditions.

The Eye Detection AF, which even works in Servo AF mode, will detect and ensure that the subject’s eye is always in focus even at wide open aperture, especially useful when the subject is moving. In situations which require minimum disturbance, the camera’s Silent Mode enables users to shoot without the sound of a shutter release.

Large depth of field

For users looking to create images with a large depth of field where everything in the image is in focus, the Focus Bracketing feature of EOS RP comes in handy, especially when shooting macro. It automatically shoots a series of photos based on predetermined settings such as number of shots, focusing range and first focus point. The series of images could be stitched together to form the final image using the Digital Photo Professional software.

Finger-led transitions

Together with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, the EOS RP shoots in 4K resolution at 24p/25p video footage, allowing users to focus accurately and shoot smoothly. With Touch & Drag AF, users can create pull-focus effects and also enable focus transitions by moving their finger from one to another part of the frame on the LCD screen. Combination IS provides users with stable footage even without a tripod through the innovative and improved communication of the RF mount between the sensor and the lens.

When recording video with the RF lens, users can adjust the AV setting to make ⅛-stop aperture adjustments, allowing users more precise control over exposure to match the lighting conditions of the shoot. When shooting manually, the MF Peaking function becomes essential, ensuring accurate focusing by highlighting areas in focus.

Direct charging

Apart from charging the batteries with the included external charger, the EOS RP can be quickly charged directly using the optional USB Power Adapter PD-E1 through its Hi-Speed (USB 2.0/Type C) Interface.

Transferring images from the EOS RP to either a smart device or computer is easy via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology. Users can perform network-related functions with the Canon Camera Connect mobile app. When paired, the automatic data transfer function can send photos to users’ smartphones while they are still taking photos. This helps with the management of photos, removing the hassle of having to manually transfer images after shooting.

Source: Canon Singapore. The EOS RP with the
RF24-105mm F4 L IS USM lens.

ensure firmer handling.

The Canon lens strategy

Canon also shared the roadmap for six new RF lenses in 2019. The new optical designs for these lenses are made possible by the large diameter mount and short back focus of the RF mount system.

RF15-35 mm f/2.8L IS USM

The ultra-wide zoom lens features a large f/2.8 widest aperture. The RF15-35 mm f/2.8L IS USM provides the extreme wide-angle view in close, tight situations and is suitable for landscapes. The focal length of 15 mm to 35 mm is versatile for everyday captures all the way to wedding photography. Paired with the Image Stabilizer, the RF15-35 mm f/2.8L IS USM performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions.

RF24-70 mm f/2.8L IS USM

The RF24-70 mm f/2.8L IS USM is an L-series standard zoom lens compact enough to carry around while maintaining a large f/2.8 widest aperture. RF24-70 mm f/2.8L IS USM is expected to be an all-rounder with an edge during low-light conditions.

RF70-200 mm f/2.8L IS USM

The popular telephoto zoom lens now comes with a significantly smaller body. Equipped with the maximum aperture of f/2.8 and image stabilisation, RF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM provides an unprecedented shooting experience for sports, wedding, wildlife and even landscape.

RF85 mm f/1.2L USM

The RF85 mm f/1.2L USM is an L-series medium telephoto prime lens, featuring edge-to-edge resolution even at the maximum aperture of f/1.2.

RF85 mm f/1.2L USM DS

While inheriting the high overall performance and specifications of the RF85mm f/1.2L USM, the RF85 mm f/1.2L USM DS is Canon's first lens to feature the Defocus Smoothing (DS) effect. The effect is made possible by new coating technology that produces softer and smoother bokeh. This was once considered impossible with conventional optics.

RF24-240 mm f/4-6.3 IS USM

The RF24-240 mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is a compact and lightweight zoom lens with a wide 24 mm to a high 240 mm (10x zoom). This highly versatile lens value adds to the EOS R system for both stills and video shooting.

Details:

The Canon EOS RP and its accessories will be available for pre-order from authorised Canon dealers till 26 February 2019.

Model	Pre-order price	Recommended retail price
EOS RP (body only)	S$1,999	S$1,999
EOS RP Kit (EF-S24 mm f/2.8 STM)	S$2,118	S$2,218
EOS RP Kit (EF 40 mm f/2.8 STM)	S$2,198	S$2,298
EOS RP Kit (RF 24-105 mm f/4L IS USM)	S$3,498 (After cashback of S$200, given at point of purchase)	S$3,698

Pre-orders will be entitled to up to S$556 worth of free gifts which includes the Mount Adapter EF-EOS R (worth S$159), Battery LP-E17 (worth S$79), Sandisk Extreme 64 GB SDXC (worth S$41), THULE Powershuttle Plus (worth S$49), and PROLINK Smart Charger (worth S$59). Additionally, there will be a F-Stop Florentine bag (worth S$169) with purchases of the EOS RP kit with RF24-105 mm f/4L IS USM. Promotional gifts are subject to registration of the online warranty and will be redeemable at the Canon Customer Care Centre from 5 March 2019.

Pricing of the extension grip will be advised at a later time.

Product specifications for the EOS RP:

Dimensions: Approximately 132.5 x 85.3 x 70 mm

Weight: 485 g

Image sensor: 26.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor

Imaging processor: DIGIC 8

ISO speed: 100-40,000 expandable to 50-102,400

Continuous shooting speed: Max 5 fps (One Shot AF), 4 fps (Servo AF)

Maximum video quality: 4K 24p

AF: 4,779 available AF point positions; 143 AF area divisions for auto AF mode

Wi-Fi / Bluetooth: Yes

LCD: 3” (approx. 1.04 million dots) Vari-angle touch panel

Battery: LP-E17

LG unveils V40ThinQ smartphone in Singapore

LG Electronics (LG) has unveiled the LG V40ThinQ, which incorporates five cameras. The smartphone is positioned as a multimedia powerhouse device designed for today’s generation of storytellers.

Source: LG.

The LG V40ThinQ retains the V series design philosophy with an improved 6.4" FullVision OLED display and even slimmer bezels. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Mobile Platform paired with 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, the LG V40ThinQ delivers an advanced smartphone camera experience.

The smartphone features a rear camera module with three different lenses: 16 MP super wide-angle, 12 MP standard angle and 12 MP telephoto. The three lenses allow shutterbugs to conveniently frame different shots without having to change their positions relative to the subject. The 107-degree super wide-angle lens captures more view in a frame, such as a vast mountain range or stunning lake, without having to physically step back to get more in a shot. The telephoto with 2x optical zoom (or 3.2x the zoom of the wide-angle lens) allows users to take clear shots of distant subjects, such as wildlife animals or birds, without much loss in image quality.

The Triple Shot feature stitches together the images captured with each of the three lenses into a short video file for easy sharing.

The front camera features a 5 MP wide-angle and 8 MP standard angle lens that work in tandem to create the perfect bokeh effect, with an on-screen slider to adjust the amount of background blur. Other features allow selfie lovers to personalise their photos with unique lighting and special effects.

The pixel size of the main rear camera sensor has been improved by about 40% compared to the LG V30+, increasing from 1 μm to 1.4 μm, and the image sensor is more than 18% larger than its predecessor. In addition to delivering the sharpest and brightest images of any LG smartphone camera, the f1.5 aperture of the main camera delivers greater depth of field, half the shutter lag and significantly faster burst mode compared with the LG V30+.

The new smartphone also boasts Dual PDAF (phase detection auto focus), which delivers automatic focusing that is 50% faster — about twice as fast as the industry average. The advanced HDR feature analyses and determines the right exposure settings to create perfectly lit shots, eliminating overexposed backgrounds or underexposed subjects. Hence, subjects are always in perfect focus because the camera checks sharpness continuously until the shutter button is pressed.

LG has also upgraded the camera in the LG V40ThinQ, delivering the ideal colour, composition, white balance and shutter speed in images. The artificial intelligence (AI) CAM’s new AI Composition feature taps into the phone’s intelligence to frame, capture and recommend an alternative shot to the one taken by the user. AI Auto White Balance automatically adjusts the colour temperature across different lighting situations while AI Shutter selects the right shutter speed, which is especially useful when capturing fast-moving subjects.

Other new features such as Cine Shot, 3D Light Effect, Makeup Pro, Custom Backdrop and Story Shot take the photography experience on the LG V40ThinQ to new heights.

- Cine Shot makes creating cinemagraphs – images with animation – easy. Simply shoot a short video with any of the phone’s three rear cameras and “paint” the area to be animated with a finger.

- 3D Light Effect adds professional-looking lighting.

- Touch up any selfie with different looks using Makeup Pro or

- Change the background of a selfie with Custom Backdrop. 

-  Story Shot allows users to create photo composites. Simply choose a background image from existing photos in the photo gallery, or take a new backdrop with the smartphone. Selfies are superimposed over the background photo.

LG has been featuring high-fidelity audio in its smartphones and the V40ThinQ is no exception, being the first LG phone to carry the Audio Tuned by Meridian label. The 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) produces a balanced sound signature that comes extremely close to the quality of an original recording.

The Boombox Speaker feature, originally introduced on the LG G7+ThinQ, doubles the bass of conventional smartphone speakers by utilising the internal space of the device as a resonance chamber. When placed on a solid surface or hollow box, the LG V40ThinQ acts like a woofer to amplify the bass even more.

The LG V40ThinQ retains the slim and light design heritage of the V series, weighing 169 g and measuring 7.7 mm in thickness. The minimalist design features clean lines and sophisticated colours. The proprietary Silky Blast process etches the tempered glass back with microscopic pits to create a smoother matte finish. The matte glass also offers a high resistance to fingerprints and stains. Like its predecessor, the LG V40ThinQ is IP68 rated.

“With the LG V40ThinQ, creating and sharing high-quality content has never been easier for the prosumer,” said Shawn Han, MD, LG Electronics Singapore. “The five cameras offer incredible versatility, and with the camera’s artificial intelligence capabilities, users can take stunning photographs that stand out on social media platforms.”

Details:

The LG V40ThinQ will be available in Singapore from January 26, 2019 in Platinum Gray, Moroccan Blue and Carmine Red. Retailing at S$1,098, the V40ThinQ will be available for purchase at M1, Singtel, and StarHub.

Purchase the smartphone from 26 January to 22 February, 2019, and receive a complimentary LG W7 Watch in Silver (model LMW315) worth S$598. Terms and conditions apply*.

Key specifications:

Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Mobile Platform

Display: 6.4" 19.5:9 QHD + OLED FullVision Display (3,120 x 1,440 / 538 ppi)

Memory: 6 GB LPDDR4x RAM / 128 GB UFS 2.1 ROM / microSD (up to 2 TB)

Rear camera:

- 16 MP super wide-angle (f1.9 / 1.0 μm / 107°)

- 12 MP standard (f1.5 / 1.4 μm / 78°)

- 12 MP telephoto (f2.4 / 1.0 μm / 45°)

Front camera:

- 8 MP standard (f1.9 / 1.12 μm / 80°)

- 5 MP wide-angle (f2.2 / 1.12 μm / 90°)

Battery: 3,300 mAh

Operating system: Android 8.1 Oreo

Size: 158.7 x 75.8 x 7.7 mm

Weight: 169 g

Network: LTE/3G/2G

Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a, b, g, n, ac / Bluetooth 5.0 BLE / NFC / USB Type-C 2.0 (3.1 compatible)

Colours: Platinum Gray / Moroccan Blue / Carmine Red

Other features: Cine Shot / Triple Preview / Triple Shot / AI CAM / AI Composition / Boombox Speaker / Google Assistant / Google Lens / AI haptic feedback / 32-bit Hi-Fi Quad DAC / DTS:X 3D Surround Sound / Super Far Field Voice Recognition / IP68 water and dust resistance / HDR10 / Face recognition / Fingerprint sensor / Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 Technology (Qualcomm Quick Charge 4 compatible) / Wireless charging / FM radio

Note: Specifications, features and accessories may vary by market.

*While stocks Last. Redemption of the LG W7 Watch can be done at LG Customer Service Centre from 28 January to 28 February, 2019.

Huawei introduces the HUAWEI nova 3i

· Singapore one of the first in the world to launch the HUAWEI nova 3i

· Featuring the all-new Kirin 710 chip, the nova 3i is priced at S$398

· World’s first smartphone to feature front-facing dual cameras with artificial intelligence (AI) support

The Huawei Singapore Consumer Business Group has been amongst the first in the world to unveil the midrange HUAWEI nova 3i smartphone, currently the only midrange device that offers front-facing dual cameras with AI support.

“We want to empower our customers with access to high-end technologies and create value for the budget-conscious,” said Cheng Jiangfei, MD, Huawei Singapore Consumer Business Group.

“By integrating the finest of modern design and AI capabilities, the HUAWEI nova 3i boasts a range of new exciting features that pushes the boundaries of innovation. We believe that such fundamentals of smartphone technology should be made accessible for everyone to enjoy. With the HUAWEI nova 3i, our customers can enjoy exceptional quality and premium functionalities at a fraction of the price.”

Key features of the HUAWEI nova 3i include:

· A special textured film underneath the glass back that produces a unique gradient appearance on the rear;

· Four AI cameras, 24 MP and 2 MP in front, 16 MP and 2 MP at the back;

· A new-generation FullView display. Measuring 6.3" and supporting FHD+ resolution (2,340x1,080) the 19.5:9 display covers 85% of the colour gamut;

· In addition to the latest EMUI 8.2 operating system, it features Huawei’s first quad-core Kirin 710 chip, specifically designed for the nova series.

The HUAWEI nova 3i is the world’s first smartphone to feature a 24 MP primary sensor and a 2 MP sensor powered by AI photography. Powered by AI, the HUAWEI nova 3i can recognise over 200 scenarios across eight categories including blue sky, plant and beach. The AI function can optimise photos by scene to create true-to-life results.

The 24 MP primary sensor is designed to capture details with its f/2.0 wide aperture lens, while the 2 MP secondary sensor captures depth data with dedicated depth detection hardware. The dual cameras can produce excellent bokeh and minimise the time and effort required for editing photos.

The rear-facing camera combines a 16 MP primary sensor and a 2 MP secondary sensor. The former captures vivid images and videos, while the latter records depth data to create a bokeh effect, resulting in more natural-looking images. When taking a photo, the handset also assists the user with intelligent composition.

With AI and machine learning, the HUAWEI nova 3i also supports 3D Qmoji, a social media-friendly feature that digitally transposes the face of a user onto a digital avatar.

The HUAWEI nova 3i uses the newest generation 6.3" FHD+ (2,340x1,080) 19.5:9 FullView display. These specifications enable the display to push out bigger and sharper images. Another upgrade is on colour reproduction: the new device covers 85% of the colour gamut, up 10% from the previous generation.

The front of the HUAWEI nova 3i features a symmetric design—the earpiece speaker is nestled between two sensors. Behind the notched front view is a glass back, secured to a sturdy aluminum-magnesium alloy mid-frame. The glass transitions seamlessly to the mid-frame, enabling a slim form factor and exceptional feel. The Iris Purple gradient colour appears on the textured film underneath the curved glass. Purple and blue blend harmoniously with the neon-like contrasts, melding into colours for the future.

Source: Huawei. The
Purple Iris version of the
HUAWEI nova 3i.

Huawei ensures a high-quality AI user experience with the Kirin 710 system-on-a-chip (SoC), which delivers outstanding and balanced performance. Huawei has also cultivated a complete ecosystem on the EMUI operating system. EMUI features AI-related services that enable an AI-enhanced lifestyle, including AI shopping. The HUAWEI nova 3i also supports an AI gaming mode that pushes the performance of the SoC to the maximum while blocking non-critical notifications and calls that could hamper the gaming experience.

In addition to the Kirin 710 SoC and 4 GB RAM, the HUAWEI nova 3i also uses GPU Turbo to optimise its graphics processing capability. GPU Turbo is graphics processing accelerator technology that re-architects how graphics are processed on a system level; it greatly improves software-hardware integration, pushing past the traditional bottlenecks that held the CPU and GPU back. GPU Turbo enables devices to run graphics-intensive games as it boosts both performance and efficiency*.

Details:

The HUAWEI nova 3i will be available in both Iris Purple and Black at a recommended retail price of S$398. It will be making its public debut on 28 July 2018 at Waterway Point Shopping Mall, East Wing Atrium, Basement 2.

From 11 am to 9 pm, customers will receive a Casio G-SHOCK Analog-Digital Watch (worth S$199) with every purchase of the nova 3i, while stocks last. As part of the debut on 28 July, visitors will also be treated to a day of entertainment with celebrity appearances by local sweethearts Joanna Dong and Boon Hui Lu.

The HUAWEI nova 3i will also be available from 28 July 2018 at all Huawei Concept Stores, local telecommunication operators, selected consumer electronic stores, authorised mobile retailers and selected online marketplaces.

Customers are entitled to a two-year warranty with any Huawei smartphone.

Hashtags: #DareToNova, #NovaStar, #OOOO

*GPU Turbo will support PUBG MOBILE, Mobile Legends and more games that will be available on a later date.

Blackmagic Design showcases 4K Pocket Cinema Camera, DaVinci Resolve 15 at Broadcast Asia

Source: Blackmagic Design. Camera, video editing software
to be launched in Asia Pacific at Broadcast Asia.

Blackmagic Design is launching the Pocket Cinema Camera 4K and DaVinci Resolve 15 in the Asia Pacific region at Broadcast Asia. While the products are targeted for professional film-making, the line is blurring between professional tools and high-end solutions for business or even personal use.

“Blackmagic Design is dedicated to allowing the highest quality video to be affordable to everyone, so the post-production and television industry can become a truly creative industry,” said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO.

The new Pocket Cinema Camera 4K features a full size 4/3 HDR sensor with native 4,096 x 2,160 resolution and 13 stops of dynamic range for true digital film quality.

The full size of the 4/3 sensor is designed to perfectly match MFT lenses so the crop factor is greatly reduced, giving customers a wider field of view. It also features dual native ISO with up to 25,600 ISO for excellent low light performance. The latest Blackmagic Design colour science lets customers shoot images that are far better than DSLR cameras and even better than professional digital film cameras, the company said. 

The US$1,295 Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K has a MFT lens mount, 5" touchscreen monitor, 10-bit ProRes and 12-bit RAW recording, 3D lookup tables (LUTs), four built-in microphones, mini external line return (XLR) audio input with phantom power, Bluetooth wireless camera control, and HDMI on-set monitoring output. Phantom power refers to power that some microphones require in order to work, and would come from a normal power supply connected by an XLR socket and cable.

Also new is DaVinci Resolve 15, a suite of four high-end post-production applications combining professional offline and online editing, colour correction, audio post-production and visual effects in one software tool. With Blackmagic's Fusion compositing software integrated into DaVinci Resolve 15 and Blackmagic’s collaborative workflow, a project can now be processed by various departments or agencies simultaneously. Fusion enables cinematic feature film quality visual effects and broadcast motion graphic animations.

DaVinci Resolve is free, and has all of the professional editing, colour correction and Fairlight audio tools for SD, HD and Ultra HD work at up to 60 frames per second. DaVinci Resolve Studio is the paid version and adds support for 4K and higher, along with frame rates up to 120 fps. It also includes additional image processing features and filters that are not in the free version.

While many companies are going for cloud-based subscriptions for their software, Blackmagic's DaVinci Resolve Studio does not require a connection to the Internet and there are no monthly subscription fees. DaVinci Resolve Studio is available for a one-off cost of US$299, which the company notes is "50% less than the cost of popular cloud subscriptions".

Details:

Broadcast Asia is on at Suntec Singapore, Level 6, 26-28 June 2018. Blackmagic Design has a booth at 6S2-01.