Today's best deals come from Amazon.com, where you will find several outstanding products on sale, including the Razer Book 13 laptop, the Amazon Echo Dot, and more
OPPO has officially introduced the Reno 8 series, containing the OPPO Reno 8, OPPO Reno 8 Pro, and OPPO Reno 8 Pro+. Here's everything you need to know.
This article will show you some of the best rugged, slim and lightweight, transparent, and colorful cases that we could find on Amazon for the Motorola Moto G Power 2022.
According to a new report, people familiar with the matter said that Google had delayed the Google Pixel Notepad once again, and it's not expected to debut until at least next spring.
Google will reportedly use a new type of file format, called the EROFS file system, in Android 13. Wondering what it is? Here's everything that you need to know.
Nobody makes high-end Android tablets quite like the way Samsung makes them. The Galaxy Tab S8 series is a testament to that. If you’re not interested in spending a lot of money on the top-of-the-line models, the Galaxy Tab S8 is a sufficiently good flagship.
We branded it as the portable multimedia powerhouse in our Galaxy Tab S8 review and with good reason. With top-notch specs, a great design, 45W charging support, and an excellent 120Hz display, it has everything you’d want from a high-end tablet.
You’d normally have to pay $699 for the Galaxy Tab S8. If you hurry now, you can buy it for $599 from Amazon for a limited time.
RED is now accepting reservations for the studio configuration version of their flagship camera, the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV. This model shares the same 8K Vista Vision sensor of the original V-RAPTOR, but comes with a larger unified body that offers built-in ND filters, an interchangeable lens mount, and a more complete set of I/O connections. Also, a new RED 8K S35 camera is in the works.
The RED V-RAPTOR was the first camera to join the company’s new DSMC3 lineup and has been out in the wild since September 2021. This extremely capable camera features a multi-format 8K Vista Vision sensor that offers 6K resolution in Super 35 mode and can capture motion at up to 120 fps at full resolution.
In typical RED style, the company has packed the same 8K VV sensor into a unified body that is aimed at studio applications, high-end productions, and rental houses. We already reported about the RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV last month when the camera was spotted at BSC Expo. Now RED has finally opened up reservations for this V-RAPTOR “on steroids” and a new 8K S35 sensors is “out of the oven”, according to CEO Jarred Land. Let’s take a closer look.
Image credit: RED
RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV: an all-in-one system
Since the original V-RAPTOR and the XL version share exactly the same sensor, the two cameras are expected to perform identically when comparing image quality. However, the RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV body is quite larger than that of the standard V-RAPTOR and offers several usability improvements, starting from a built-in ARRI rosette on each side.
Also, this version features an integrated electronic ND system that makes exposure adjustments faster and easier. This is something that the standard V-RAPTOR lacks, thus users need to recur to traditional matte boxes or lens mounts with built-in NDs, such as the Breakthrough Photography Cinema DFM or the recently released KipperTie Strata PL-ND. Furthermore, while the V-RAPTOR comes with a native RF mount, the XL offers an interchangeable lens mount system that includes a robust titanium PL option.
Image credit: RED
The greatest selling point of the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV is its expanded list of input/output options, including:
USB-C
3x SDI ports
GENLOCK
19.5-34V DC-IN
2x AUX ports
CTRL
TIMECODE
GIG-E
AUDIO
3.5mm headphone jack
All these connections are accessible from the camera’s assistant side. This is also where the on/off switch, REC button, and LCD screen with navigation buttons can be found. The opposite (left) side of the camera has a much simpler design, with a rec/stop button, ND controls, two user-configurable buttons as well as the CFexpress card slot. Furthermore, a single 12V (1A max) two-pin Lemo, dual 24V RS (3A max) 3-pin Lemo, and EVF SDI connectors can be found on the front of the RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV body.
RED V-RAPTOR XL Production Pack
Just like with the newly-available Production Pack for the V-RAPTOR, the company offers a pre-bundled, ready-to-shoot pack for the XL version as well, including:
V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV Camera System
DSMC3 RED Touch 7.0” LCD monitor with sunhood
REDVOLT XL batteries (V-Lock or Gold Mount)
RED Compact Dual Charger (V-Lock or Gold Mount)
RED PRO CFexpress 2TB cards and card reader
Top Handle with Extensions
Riser Plater
Top and Bottom 15MM LWS Rod Support Brackets
DSMC3 RED 5-pin to Dual XLR Adapter
DSMC3 RMI Cable 18”
Image credit: RED
RED’s new 8K S35 sensor
Along with the opening of reservations for the V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV, RED’s CEO Jarred Land teased a new 8K S35 sensor on his Instagram profile. This new sensor is currently being tested and will soon find its home in a V-RAPTOR “standard” or XL body. This probably represents the company’s attempt to contrast ARRI’s new Super 35 mm camera that is going to be revealed tomorrow.
Image credit: Jarred Land
Price and availability
The new V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV is now available for pre-order from RED’s website for $39,500. You can reserve a unit by providing your email on the dedicated website page. The camera should start shipping in August, 2022. Finally, the official price of the pre-bundled V-RAPTOR XL Production Pack is $44,995.
Did you get the chance to shoot on the RED V-RAPTOR yet? What do you think of the design of this new XL version? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!
Could the supply chain issues possibly be coming to an end? Well, we’ll have to see about that but for now at least, Sony has announced that they’re able to resume production of 2019’s Sony A6400 APS-C mirrorless camera. Sales of the model were originally suspended in November 2021 due to the ongoing silicone shortage and supply chain issues. Now, though, it appears to be back. At least at the Sony Store, with regular retailers coming soon.
Sony Japan’s statement says that they’re now accepting orders from both distributors as well as customers at the Sony store for the A6400. And while distributors can order, they haven’t yet said when those distributors will receive them and when we’ll be able to order from our favourite local (or online) camera shops again. It also looks like the A7 II and A6100 might not be coming back at all.
The announcement from Sony says that “after May 27, 2022, we will resume accepting orders from our distributors and customers’ orders at the Sony store” and it doesn’t say much beyond that about the A6400. The fact that they feel confident enough to resume at all is a good sign. At the moment, the Sony A6400 body only and its various kit forms are still listed as being “Back-Ordered” or “Temporarily Out of Stock” at many retailers. Hopefully, it won’t be too long of a wait for them to actually get back into the hands of retailers again.
Production of the A6400 ended along with the Sony A7 II and A6100 bodies. As of right now, only the A6400 has been announced as back in production. I think it’s more than likely that we may never see the other two return. I don’t think they’d be missed too much if that happened, though.
At the end of 2021, the company announced that “there is no prospect of future parts supply” for the Sony A7 II or A6100 and that “2021 Production will be completed on December 23rd”. The A7 II was probably about to be retired anyway, given the release of the A7 IV. With apparent difficulties in getting A6100 parts, we might be waiting on its replacement model rather than its reintroduction. They’re also no longer listed on the suspended products lists, which strongly suggests they’re not coming back.
Sony also stopped accepting orders on the ZV-E10, A6600 and A7C at the same time they made the announcement about A7 II and A6100 production coming to an end. While B&H and other retailers list the cameras as still being out of stock, there do appear to be a few A7Cs available on Amazon – and they’re actually being sold by Amazon, not a 3rd party seller. There’s no word yet on when those models may officially return to production.
By Ian Bongso-Seldrup, May 30, 2022 @ 12:30 AM (EST)
Source: DPReview
The coronavirus pandemic halted travel, shuttered dive shops, and created all manner of production and supply chain delays. Sony, one of many camera companies to suffer, announced, back in November 2021, that it was suspending production of its a6100, a6400 and a7 II models.
But in a sign that the darkest days are (hopefully) behind us, Sony has confirmed that production of the a6400 is restarting. Sony Japan’s website says: “From May 27, 2022, we will resume accepting orders from Distributors to us and orders from customers at the Sony Store.” Recommencing production of the a6100 and a7 II hasn’t yet been mentioned.
That’s great news for underwater shooters who want a piece of Sony’s hugely popular APS-C format camera line—of which the a6400 is one of the best examples. We tested the camera in Fantasea’s housing just before the pandemic hit, in June and July 2019, photographing and filming a wide range of subjects in Bali, Alor and Komodo, with reviewer Alex Lindbloom concluding, “There are really no limits to what you can do with this amazing little setup.”
It’s not clear when exactly a6400 camera bodies will be available for purchase, but if you’re interested in the camera, get in touch with the Backscatter team and they’ll be able to tell you when a6400 stocks are at healthy levels again.
When purchasing underwater photography equipment like the products mentioned in this article, please support DPG by supporting our retail partner—Backscatter.com.
The Apple Watch is a popular accessory for countless reasons, be it as a tool to keep track of the notifications arriving on your iPhone or as a wellness device that allows you to stay on top of your health and fitness-related activities. The benefits the wearable offers are countless, and if you've finally pulled the trigger on buying one for yourself, you're bound to be on the lookout for a guide to help you understand some of the inner workings of the accessory. Well, this guide on Pocketnow will help you do just that.
Apple Watch Series 7
Apple Watch Series 7 features a refreshed design with slimmer bezels, new fast-charging capability, and added protection against dust with a new IP6X rating, in addition to its WR50 water resistance.
Apple Watch SE
Apple Watch SE is the latest affordable smartwatch from the Cupertino-based company. If you're looking for a reliable companion for your iPhone that will help you keep track of your fitness, answer and make calls, monitor your heart rate, and do a lot more, then Apple Watch SE is one to consider.
The Apple Watch and its bubble/ grid view are something you may have seen in almost all of Apple's marketing material. But on a smaller than usual screen, navigating across the various bubbles to find the application you need can be complex. Fortunately, Apple built a List View into WatchOS, which you can activate via the Watch App on your iPhone.
Once you have the Watch App open, follow the steps listed below.
Source: Pocketnow
Tap on App View.
Choose Grid View or List View.
While Grid View is aesthetically pleasing, List View will display all downloaded applications in an alphabetical order, which is easier to navigate if you're aware of the name of the application you hope to find.
Note: Keep in mind that application names are shared between iPhone and Apple Watch.
Configure Notifications
If you were excited about finally getting your hands on an Apple Watch, there's a chance you blew through the setup process and haven't configured the way it will prompt you about notifications.
Let me tell you; it can get quite annoying when your Apple Watch (and its great haptic motor) are constantly buzzing on your hand. Thus, we recommend jumping into the Notifications on the Watch application and choosing which apps can send you a prompt when you receive a message or email.
Open the Apple Watch app and follow the steps listed below.
Source: Pocketnow
Tap on Notifications.
Scroll down to Mirror iPhone Alerts From.
Toggle off applications from which you don't want to receive notifications.
Next on this list is calibrating your Apple Watch. The wearable at its core is a fitness tracker, and getting the most accurate data out of it is essential. There is quite a robust process to calibrate your Apple Watch, and you will need to find a flat ground area.
To begin the calibration process, grab your iPhone and ensure its Location Services are activated and that the Motion Calibration and Distance setting is on in System Services.
Steps on iPhone
Source: Pocketnow
Open the Settings App and follow the steps listed below.
Tap Privacy.
Toggle on Location Services.
Scroll down to the bottom of the same screen and tap on System Services.
Locate Motion Calibration & Distance and activate it.
Once these settings are activated, get onto your Apple Watch and perform an Outdoor Walk or Outdoor Run for about 20 minutes.
Apple also recommends running 20-minute sessions at varying pace to improve accuracy. These steps can improve the calorie, distance, move and exercise measurements, says Apple.
When you set up your Apple Watch, it has an assortment of faces already available for use, but a vital aspect of the wearable is customizing it to suit your needs. The complications on the wearable will open up as you install more applications and delve into maximizing the Apple Watch's use cases.
But all in all, avoiding the crowding of watch faces or having an organized structure will be key in ensuring you can make the most of your wearable.
Note: While you can add watch faces and even customize their order on Apple Watch itself, we recommend using the Watch App on your iPhone to understand better the changes you're making.
Once you have the Watch Application open, follow the steps listed below:
Source: Pocketnow
Under the My Faces subsection, see each watch face currently on your Apple Watch.
Tap on Edit to bring up the list view of your faces.
You can remove faces by tapping on the red minus symbol or rearranging them with a long press on the three bars on the right-hand side.
Don't Monitor its Battery Life (for the first few days)
If you've seen reviews for the Apple Watch, you might already know that it offers approximately 18 to 24 hours of use before it needs to find itself on the charger. Suppose you've just set up your Apple Watch. In that case, we recommend not hovering over its charge percentage as the wearable does data indexing during the first few days of usage and possibly analyses your usage pattern.
You're likely to see battery life improve after the first few days. I noticed this with my Series 7, which rarely made it through a day when I first got it; a week later, the watch lasted me well over 24 hours between charging cycles. I noticed this pattern on my Series 6 as well.
While the Apple Watch doesn't provide such a prompt upon setting up, I noticed my brand new Galaxy Watch 4 states that it's analyzing my usage patterns to estimate how long I can go between charging the device. And it wouldn't be wrong to presume the Apple Watch does the same.
While Apple Watch recently introduced Sleep Tracking as a feature, Apple's implementation isn't the best. While you can look into using third-party applications to track your sleep, if you want to stick with Apple's version, you will need to set up a Sleep Schedule in Apple Health.
To set up Sleep Schedule, Open the Health App and follow the steps listed below.
Source: Pocketnow
Tap on Browse, and scroll down to Sleep.
Here, under Your Schedule, tap on Sleep Schedule.
Activate Sleep Schedule and set up Bedtime and Wake Up times.
Next, open the Apple Watch app and confirm its settings.
Source: Pocketnow
This should have your Apple Watch ready to record your sleep within your setup window.
It's a shame that Apple doesn't have a robust first-party system to track sleep and that the Apple Watch cannot record any odd naps in the middle of the day. I'm currently testing a Galaxy Watch 4, and it does a great job at providing sleep data with its Samsung Health integration.
The next thing to do with your Apple Watch would be to customize its dock to allow quick access to applications you'll frequently use. The Dock can be made accessible with a single press of the side button, and the list of applications shown here will be the favorites you've set up in the Apple Watch.
To set up Favorites, follow the steps listed below.
Source: Pocketnow
Open the Watch application and tap on Dock.
Choose Favorites.
Now, tap on Edit, remove the applications you won't use, and scroll below to find the ones you would like to access quickly.
Note: A Side Button press can be configured to show Recent Applications or Favorites; this setting can be changed on the Watch or your iPhone.
Buy Some Accessories: Protective Case, Screen Protector, & Extra Charger
Lastly, we move on to some accessories you should consider buying for your Apple Watch.
If you find yourself partaking in outdoor activities, a rugged case (or even a slim one) can go a long way in protecting your device. Options from SUPCASE and Spigen are generally the most popular and worth considering.
SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro
Rugged Protection
SUPCASE's Unicorn Beetle Pro features a rugged design that will protect your Apple Watch while ensuring you have unrestricted access to all of its buttons and features. Its built-in watch strap also imbibes a rugged design and will make sure the wearable remains in place during your adventures.
Caseology Nero
Complete TPU Protection
Caseology Nero for Apple Watch is a minimalistic TPU Sleeve that installs with ease, remains snugly fit, and maintains a low-profile look. The single-piece cover is ideal for users looking to protect every surface without affecting access to key areas like the charging back and Digital Crown.
Spigen Rugged Armor Pro
Rugged Protection Alternate
The Spigen Rugged Armor Pro combines a watch case and band into one unit, making it a convenient accessory for excursions and other adventures. It has a matte finish with carbon fiber accents for a sporty yet rugged look, and its raised bezels will ensure your smartwatch's screen has protection from falls and the resulting collision.
We also recommend having an extra Apple Watch charging cable in your car or perhaps in your office if your wearable ever needs a little top-up.
Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Cable
USB-C (1m)
Satechi USB-C Magnetic Charging Dock
Compact Accessory
The Satechi USB-C Magnetic Charging Dock is a small accessory that adds immense convenience if you're ever in a pinch.
Satechi Quatro
Multi-functional
The Satechi Quatro features a 10000 mAh cell perfect for managing multiple devices when out on the move.
Screen protectors are a toss-up; If you would like to have the security of an additional layer between the world and your glass-covered wearable, there are a few reliable screen protectors for Apple Watch that you can consider buying.
The iPad is dominant in the world of tablets due to the variety of models available and the various use cases its app ecosystem provides. And over the last few years, with the introduction of iPadOS, Apple has slowly and steadily improved the tablet's functionality, adding a plethora of features surrounding productivity. And the features are available on every model, ranging from the basic $329 iPad to the $1000+ iPad Pro.
So, if you have an iPad in your household and would like to use it for more than play, here is a guide on how to multitask better with your iPad.
Terms to Know
Before we delve into how to use the various features your iPad offers, there are a few terms you will be better off knowing. You'll find them mentioned across other supporting articles, this one included, and having a reference can help in the future.
The following terms are essential to navigating iPadOS with ease:
Slide Over: This term refers to the little window you can create on your iPad to appear over any applications active on the screen. It makes an iPhone-sized window that stretches from the top to the bottom of the display.
Split View: This feature on iPadOS refers to when you open two different windows active on display, effectively splitting it into two halves. We mention windows here because some applications — like Notes, Safari, Word, etc. — allow users to open two instances that access different tabs or files at once.
Shelf: An element of iPadOS which showcases the separate windows open for any supported application. It automatically appears when an application with multiple windows is re-opened and can also be manually activated by bringing up the Dock and tapping on the icon for the app.
Dock: Available on every OS shipped by Apple, the Dock is found along the bottom edge of the screen and can consist of applications that you want to quickly access, often because you use them the most.
App Library: App Library refers to the collection of apps found to the right of your last Home Screen Page or compressed into a button at the right edge of your Dock. Users can discover installed applications grouped by type in this section or access a List View with a swipe down when the App Library is open.
Multitasking Button: Added with iPadOS 15, this is a tiny glyph (triple dots) found along the top edge of your iPad display to activate Split View or Slide Over if you aren't comfortable with using the gesture-based system.
How to use Slide Over on iPad?
You will need an iPad running iOS 9 and later to use Slide Over. Once you've confirmed your device supports the feature, follow the steps below.
Source: Pocketnow
Source: Pocketnow
Source: Pocketnow
Open the application you want in the Slide Over window.
Tap on the Multitasking Button.
Choose the last available option (marked in red).*
Now, tap on any other application you want open; this will put the previously open app into a compact window.
In case you want an app to open in a compact window over the application you're already using, pull up the Dock and drag an application from it or the App Library to the middle of the screen; this will open the app in Slide Over too.
How to use Split View on iPad?
To use Split View, follow the steps listed below.
Source: Pocketnow
Source: Pocketnow
Source: Pocketnow
Open a supported application on your screen, say Apple Notes.
Now, tap on the Multitasking Button, and choose the middle option.
Next, tap on any other app you'd like to share the other half of the screen. This can be Photos, Safari, Notability, or even another instance of Apple Notes.
This will create a screen where the two apps are split across your display.
Split View is supported on iPads running iOS 9 or later.
How to use Multiple Windows?
Multiple Windows in iPadOS can help with segregation of work. Perhaps you use your iPad to write content online. You could keep your tabs dealing with research consolidated to one window in such a workflow, while another window could be logged into your content management system or preferred online writing tool.
To use Multiple Windows, follow the steps below.
Source: Pocketnow
Source: Pocketnow
Source: Pocketnow
Source: Pocketnow
Open an application that supports Multiple Windows.
Tap on the Multitask Button to bring up the Shelf.
Now, tap on New Window to create a new application instance.
This will create a separate instance for you to perform your actions. You can also individually view the different instances in the App Switcher.
Multiple Windows are supported on iPad models running iPadOS 13 or later.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Slide Over
Source: Pocketnow
Users can also stack multiple applications in Slide Over with a similar drag and drop motion. Just initiate another Slide Over instance and drop it on the currently open Slide Over app.
Tips for Split View
Resize Windows
Source: Pocketnow
Users can resize the application windows in Split View by placing their finger on the middle bar and dragging it to the left or right. The direction in which you move will result in one of the two apps receiving more area to use.
Create Split View Combinations in App Switcher
Source: Pocketnow
iPadOS even allows one to create Split View combinations in the App Switcher. To do this, just pick up a compatible application and drag it over another that you know you can use in Split View. This will create a combination that can then be easily accessed with a single tap.
Each of these features is compatible with the iPad models currently on sale. Check out our iPad Buying Guide for 2022 to understand which model is best for your use case. And if you already have an iPad and know of some neat tricks not mentioned in this article, let us know with a comment below.
iPad Models Available in 2022
iPad 9th Generation
The iPad 9th Gen. features refreshed internals and an improved front-facing camera, making it the perfect tablet for kids or seniors in your family who need a device to keep in touch or get school work done with just enough power for gaming.
iPad Mini (6th generation)
The all-new iPad mini features a massive redesign, bringing it in line with the looks of the new iPad Air and iPad Pro. It packs the A15 Bionic, features support for the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, has Touch ID built into its power button, and implements a USB-C port for wired connectivity.
iPad Air (5th Generation)
iPad Air 5th Gen brings the highly rated M1 processor, 5G connectivity (for cellular models), Center Stage capability, and all-new colors. It starts at $599 for the 64GB WiFi-only model, with an upgrade to 256GB of internal storage available.
iPad Pro 11-inch (2021)
iPad Pro 11-inch is the best of what Apple offers in a smaller form factor. It comes with the M1 Processor and ProMotion display, which work to provide a power-packed user experience that delivers on all fronts, be it media consumption or productivity-based tasks.
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2021)
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro combines the best hardware available in Apple's tablet stable. It comes with the Liquid Retina XDR display with support for ProMotion and is a choice worth looking at for those who need a high brightness panel when on the go.
