Zach Honig
Articles by Zach Honig
Nikon Coolpix P600 and P530 superzooms ship this month for $450-plus
If you recently came upon a Coolpix P520 under the Christmas tree, prepare to be mildly disappointed. That superzoom just reached early retirement, with today's P530 introduction. 2014's refresh brings along a similar f/3-5.9, 24-1,000mm (42x) optically stabilized zoom lens, a new 16.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, 1080/30p and 60i video capture, a 3-inch fixed LCD and a built-in EVF. It also comes along with full manual control, including a dedicated mode dial. There's WiFi connectivity via the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter ($50), but with a $450 price tag, there's really no excuse for it not to be included (and embedded, for that matter). You do, however, get built-in WiFi with the Coolpix P600, which is available for just 50 bucks more. It's also a bit more capable on the imaging front, with an f/3.3-5.6, 24-1,440mm (60x) optical zoom lens (equipped with an ED glass element), lens-shift image stabilization, a 16.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a 3-inch, 921k-dot tilt-and-swivel RGBW LCD. Like the P530, the P600 supports 1080/30p and 60i video capture and comes along with full manual control, with a dedicated mode dial as well. Both cameras also ship with a few new shooting modes, including Moon Mode, Bird Mode and a multiple-exposure option that merges up to three separate images. Both should be available later this month, with the P600 shipping in black and red for $500 and the P530 available in black for $450.
Panasonic's GH4 clearly packs serious 4K video chops, but pricing and availability remain TBA (hands-on)
Long gone are the days when digital cameras were just for still photographers. In fact, with its GH4, it's easy to argue that Panasonic is putting an even greater emphasis on video capture -- of the 4K variety, in this case. The Lumix GH4, teased as the "next GH" just last month at CES, offers tremendous advantages over its predecessor, the GH3. Perhaps most notable are the camera's 4K capabilities. This year's model can shoot both 3,840 x 2,160 and a 4,096 x 2,160 "cinema 4K" format at 30 frames per second with a 100 Mbps bit rate. If you're willing to settle for 1080p (at 60, 30 or 24 fps), Panasonic's also added a 200 Mbps option, with 100 and 50 Mbps offerings available, too. You can capture clean HDMI video with an external recorder at 4:2:2 8/10-bit output, while a (relatively gigantic) interface unit mounts on the bottom and adds four SDI outputs with support for 4K (4:2:2/10-bit), time code, two XLR microphone inputs and a 13.8-volt Canon terminal for external power. That accessory also includes phantom power controls and LED audio level readouts. There are significant improvements on the stills front, too. There's a new 16-megapixel CMOS Micro Four Thirds sensor, which should benefit video captures as well. The camera supports a sensitivity range of ISO 200-25,600 (compared to a 12,800 max with the GH3), while the viewfinder has been boosted with a very sharp 2.36M-dot OLED panel and the 3-inch main tilt-and-swivel display now has a higher-res 1.04M-dot OLED screen. Panasonic is also emphasizing performance improvements, including a new 0.07-second focus speed, 12 fps burst mode or 7 fps with AF tracking and a shutter rated for 200,000 total clicks. The body is still constructed of magnesium alloy, and it's splash- and dust-proof. Expect to snap more than 500 stills with a full charge. There's also SDXC UHS Class 3 compatibility -- you'll need a latest-gen card to capture 200 Mbps video internally. What we don't have at this point is pricing or a ship date. At CES, Panasonic quoted a price below $2,000, and considering the improvements over the GH3, which currently retails for about $1,000 (and will remain on the market), we wouldn't be surprised to see a final MSRP near the $2k mark. Reps promised more information on the availability front next month, and while the info rollout has been anything but speedy, we're inclined to think the GH4 will be worth the wait.
KnowRoaming's international sticker SIMs begin shipping to backers today
KnowRoaming, the company behind the roaming SIM "stickers" that popped up on Kickstarter last year, has begun shipping its device to the first 500 backers. The $35 pre-order kit, which includes a SIM sticker and a single-use applicator, enables international roaming at rates far lower than what you'd normally get with your carrier (unless, of course, you're using a Simple Choice plan with free global data from T-Mobile). What makes KnowRoaming unique, however, is a design that integrates with your existing SIM. Once you attach the sticker to your carrier-issued card, your unlocked smartphone will detect when you've traveled abroad, switching your device over to a partner network. Current rates range from 13 cents per MB of data, 9 cents per minute of talk time and 16 cents per text in the UK, to a whopping $34.80 per MB, 27 cents per minute and $1.07 per SMS in Chad (though most countries offer tariffs at the cheaper end of the spectrum). CEO Gregory Gundelfinger plans to ship between 25 and 50 sets each day, so if your sticker isn't in this initial batch, you can expect to have it at your door soon. Update: KnowRoaming is currently in beta, and while data may work all the time, you should expect to experience some hiccups. If you absolutely need to be connected during your travels, we'd recommend using a service like Keepgo, which we've found to be both affordable and reliable, especially if you plan to consume large amounts of data.
Sony Cyber-shot RX10 review: impeccable performance and versatility make this cam an industry leader
To many photographers -- amateurs and professionals alike -- digital SLRs represent quality. The fact that you can remove the lens and swap it for another is inconsequential to those who never buy a second optic, and it's that segment of the market that Sony's targeting with its Cyber-shot RX10. Everything about the RX10 is DSLR-like -- its form factor, built-in EVF, focusing performance and image quality are all on par with many higher-end SLRs -- but its mighty 24-200mm lens is permanently attached. By opting for this comparatively inflexible design, Sony's able to deliver a constant f/2.8 aperture and very high-quality optics in a comfortable package, with a price tag far below what a similar removable lens would command, were it to exist in the first place. The result, put simply, is spectacular, but as $1,300 is at the high end of even deep-pocketed consumers' budgets, you'll want to catch our full review before making a purchase.
Visitors to Sochi Olympics should expect to be hacked (video)
There's little question at this point that the logistics in Sochi, from hotel rooms to public infrastructure, are a mess, but one of the greatest threats to visitors is one they can't even see. According to NBC, it's a near-guarantee that connected devices are being watched by hackers within Russia, who use malware downloaded on smartphones and laptops to steal personal information. It can be assumed that visiting dignitaries, athletes and journalists face a particular risk when it comes to unauthorized access. NBC's Richard Engel came to Russia with brand-new gear littered with fake accounts, testing the waters while limiting exposure to his legitimate data and contacts. The "honeypot" was a success, with Engel's Galaxy S 4, Mac and Windows laptop all compromised within a day of arrival. If you're headed to Sochi (or anywhere else in Russia, for that matter), you should exercise extreme caution while browsing the web and opening email attachments. Hackers will likely need to get malware onto your machine in order to easily access files, but with deadline pressures and limited free time to surf online, it may be unreasonable to expect the majority of users to avoid falling victim to these attacks. In fact, many visitors may already be sharing their online movements with hackers, and with the exception of pulling the plug entirely, at this point there's little hope. According to NBC, the US State Department has informed Americans traveling to the Olympics that they should have "no expectation of privacy" while in Russia. And if a device is infected, it could continue transmitting information back to The Motherland long after tourists return home. At this point, clear tap water and a pillow on every bed may be the most some Olympics visitors can hope for.
Verizon demonstrating LTE Multicast during Super Bowl XLVIII (hands-on video)
As part of its massive Super Bowl sponsorship, Verizon has taken over a good chunk of Manhattan's Bryant Park. We're at the Verizon Power House this morning, a heated oasis in the otherwise frigid city center, where reps are detailing the carrier's LTE Multicast service, which enables transmitting live content directly to a variety of VZ devices using the existing network infrastructure. Unlike basic LTE streaming, however, Multicast allows for an uninterrupted video feed regardless of the number of devices currently using the service in any particular area. We first heard about Verizon's implementation at CES 2013, and it looks like Big Red's planning to flip the switch during the first half of this year, though a pricing model, precise availability and device compatibility haven't been detailed. If you're in NYC this week, however, you'll be able to snag a sneak peek of Multicast running on a Sequans-powered tablet and a Galaxy Note 3. The service is currently live at a demo room in Verizon's Bryant Park booth.
Twitter experimenting with pop-up notifications on the web
Twitter isn't shy when it comes to experimentation. The social network tests some new features by rolling them out to regular users, albeit on a very limited basis, while other projects, such as @eventparrot, are made available to the entire community. The latest unreleased tool to make an appearance is a notification window that pops up whenever you receive a reply or mention, a la the screenshot above. Engadget editor Sarah Silbert noticed the pop-up in her own account, but she seems to be the only staffer with access to this particular tool. We reached out to Twitter for more information, but reps weren't able to share anything related to this particular implementation. The company has gone on the record before to shed some light on its otherwise mysterious experiment program -- in the past, engineers have "tested various features with small groups," and that appears to be the case here as well. Have you come across any Twitter features that your friends haven't seen? Let us know in the comments, and feel free to send us a tip with a screenshot, too.
Verizon LTE now available in 35 NYC subway stations
Many commuters around the world take underground connectivity for granted at this point, but New Yorkers are still disconnected more often than not while riding the subway, or even just waiting for a train. Now, thanks to Transit Wireless, Verizon customers can surf the web via LTE in 35 Manhattan subway stations. Platforms for select trains are now online, with most of the participating stations located on the city's west side, including Times Square and Columbus Circle. Service is notably absent at Penn Station and Grand Central, though that latter hub is slated to get LTE soon, when 40 additional stations come online as part of the next installation phase. Click through to the source link for the full list of 35 stations that offer LTE today. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)
Fujifilm's weather-resistant X-T1 camera ships next month for $1,300
Fujifilm shooters, get your wallets ready -- the camera maker's latest compact interchangeable-lens camera is about as full-featured as they come in this price range. The X-T1 is the latest X-Mount cam in the company's lineup, which includes models such as the X-M1 and X-E2, and it's compatible with the same suite of Fujinon XF and XC lenses. It's set to ship next month for $1,300 body only, or $1,700 with an 18-55mm f/2.8-4 kit lens. The banner features here include a 16.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, a large 2.36M-dot OLED viewfinder, a refreshed UI and an EXR Processor II, which enables a half-second start-up time, 0.05-second shutter lag and a half-second shooting interval, along with an 8 fps burst mode that includes tracking autofocus. Another significant addition, of course, is the weather-resistant build. When paired with a weather-resistant lens, the X-T1 can hold up to dust and water, and it's freeze-proof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 10 degrees Celsius), should your latest assignment bring you to the arctic tundra in the dead of winter. Additionally, the 3-inch, 1.04M-dot tilting LCD is reinforced with tempered glass, but assuming you're using a neck strap properly, there's no excuse for letting your X-T1 collide with the earth. Finally, it's the first of its kind to support the new SDXC UHS-II format, which yields write speeds double that of a traditional SD card. There's also WiFi connectivity, with instant transfers and remote shooting via the Fujifilm Camera Remote app. Three new weather-resistant lenses, including an 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6, a 16-55mm f/2.8 and a 50-140mm f/2.8, will launch as well, though we don't have pricing and availability information to share at this point.
Tesla Superchargers now cover drives from coast to coast
Tesla's Superchargers, which can provide up to 170 miles of range with just a 30-minute charge, now cover trips between Los Angeles and New York, Elon Musk tweeted yesterday. The somewhat circuitous route brings drivers through states like New Mexico, South Dakota and Wisconsin during a journey from LA to NY, rather than the more direct I-40, I-70 or I-80 options that run farther south, so expect the cross-country adventure to take a bit longer than usual if you're setting out within the next few months. Tesla will be adding many more Superchargers throughout this year, however, eventually enabling a more direct routing. And, come 2015, the entire country will be covered, making it possible to visit all 50 states and parts of Canada without going out of your way for a charge.
Starbucks plans to secure user information with updated iOS app (update)
Following this week's revelation that Starbucks' mobile apps store data such as user names, passwords and even location coordinates in plain text, a company executive announced today that a refreshed application is in the works. Curt Garner, the beverage giant's chief information officer, says that the new iOS app will "add extra layers of protection" to the "added measures" that he claims already "sufficiently address the concerns" referenced in yesterday's post. Garner also emphasizes that no information has been compromised using the methods outlined this week. There's no firm timeline for the updated iOS app, but the company reiterated that the current version offers sufficient protection -- and we imagine they'll be sticking to that story right up until a fix is available. Update: According to the Starbucks Twitter account, an update is now available. We're not seeing it via the web, but a check of our iOS device reveals v2.6.2 with "additional performance enhancements and safeguards." The press release doesn't go into detail about changes, saying only "As promised, we have released an updated version of Starbucks Mobile App for iOS which adds extra layers of protection. We encourage customers to download the update as an additional safeguard measure."
Hershey and 3D Systems join forces to create printable confections
You may no longer have to settle for getting your chocolate in teardrop, bar or seasonal-bunny form. The Hershey Company has signed an agreement to develop printable treats with 3D Systems, which announced its own chocolate-equipped printer at CES last week. That yet-to-be-released machine will fall under the ChefJet line, and also supports printing 3D objects with sugar. With ChefJet's release still months away, it's unlikely that thousands of the machines are already plugging away at a secret factory in Hershey, Penn., but you better believe we'll be first in line when the custom-printed delights hit stores.
Starbucks app stores log-in credentials, location info in plain text
If you're concerned about someone getting their hands on your personal data, you'll want to read on -- this latest method's an unlikely culprit. The Starbucks mobile-payment app is reportedly saving user data, including email addresses, passwords and even your GPS location in plain text. Theoretically, anyone with access to your phone (and a computer) can download your private data with less than an hour or work. Company executives confirmed the flaw to Computerworld, admitting that they're aware of the issue. Daniel Wood, a security researcher, first came upon the unencrypted information last year. He downloaded and re-tested an updated version the app, which Starbucks claims now includes "adequate security measures," only to find that the same information is still easily accessible. A log file also includes GPS coordinates that are captured every time you search for a nearby Starbucks store. Of course, the global caffeinator's mobile application isn't free of other weaknesses, too -- payments are processed by scanning an on-screen barcode, which can be reproduced and used to drain your account by anyone close enough to photograph your phone.
Facebook increases focus on 'conversations' with purchase of Branch and Potluck
In a move a company spokesperson termed an acqui-hire, today Facebook snapped up the 10 person team behind Branch and Potluck. Josh Miller and Cemre Güngör created the company in 2012 with financial support from Twitter co-founders Ev Williams and Biz Stone, and launched Branch, a social platform, alongside Potluck, a "web and mobile app designed for friends to hang out and talk about cool things they find online." According to The Verge, the deal is valued at $15 million. Both products will now fall within the social giant's umbrella, with the team forming a new Conversations group in New York City. Confirmed in a post from Miller, Branch and Potluck will "live on outside of Facebook," with products resembling both of the existing platforms to come.
CES 2014: Cameras and digital imaging roundup
As in years past, CES wasn't the premier showcase for groundbreaking digital imaging products, but we still saw our fair share of photo-centric updates. Of course, with manufacturers highlighting a wide array of 4K televisions, it wasn't surprising to see them emphasize Ultra HD on the capture side of things, too. Most notable on that front was Sony's compact $2,000 4K Handycam. It's significantly smaller than the company's pricier alternative, and it scores major points for affordability, too. Other manufacturers also peddled 4K shooters, such as Panasonic with its GH and head-mounted prototypes, but the pre-release versions on display weren't nearly as compelling as the model Sony plans to start shipping in March.
Sony's latest Action Cam sports splash-proof body, pro features for $300
Sony's targeting amateur shooters and professionals alike with its new HDR-AS100V Action Cam. For consumers, the biggest addition here is the new splash-proof body, which lets you shoot in rain or snow without using the bundled (and relatively bulky) waterproof case. There are also "vast improvements in the optics," according to Sony, including an updated lens with a fixed 170-degree viewing angle (120 degrees with SteadyShot turned on), an 18-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor and new capture options, including 1080/24p, 720/120p or 720/240p video shooting and an ability to snap 13.5-megapixel stills. There's also an integrated stereo mic and an input jack, should you wish to add an external mic. Professional shooters can take advantage of new time-code support when editing XAVC S footage with Vegas Pro, making it easy to merge clips from the Action Cam with content from a variety of other cameras. There's also a new option to shoot at 50 Mbps XAVC S, thanks to the new BIONZ X processor, and a record light up top that makes it easy to confirm that the camera's actually recording. Cosmetically, the AS100V looks nearly identical to its predecessor, with limited on-camera controls and a basic info readout on the right side and SD and Memory Stick Micro storage in the rear, along with USB, HDMI and a mic jack hidden behind a panel at the bottom of the cam. The new AS100V will hit stores in March for $300, or $400 when bundled with Sony's live-view remote. The previous-gen AS30V will remain on the market, albeit with a TBA reduced price. A software update will add livestreaming and a high-speed continuous-shooting mode to both models this summer.
Sony announces Alpha 5000 with 20.1MP sensor, 180-degree display, WiFi for $600 with lens (hands-on)
Sony's NEX branding is officially no more. The Alpha 5000 is the company's first entry-level camera to drop the familiar moniker, falling instead under the higher-end Alpha lineup. Everything else about this CES model fits the mold, however. There's a 180-degree tilting LCD that flips forward for self-portraits, built-in WiFi (with NFC) for instantly sharing pictures and videos on the web, Camera Apps for tweaking shots and uploading directly through a wireless hotspot and Sony's latest 16-50mm power-zoom kit lens for smoother zooming during video capture. On the imaging front, there's a 20.1-megapixel sensor, a 16,000 top ISO and 1080p shooting at 60i, 30p and 24p. There's also a built-in flash -- an appropriate feature for Sony's target demographic of beginner photographers stepping up from a less-capable point-and-shoot. Despite the new name, the Alpha 5000 feels very much like an NEX. There's a more pronounced grip (think NEX-5T, not 3N), and the same tweaked (and improved) multi-page settings interface that we first met with the Alpha 7 and 7R back in October. Like its recent Sony counterparts, the 5000 charges via its micro-USB port, and it sports an HDMI output (this time, with 4K image support), for photographers looking to share their captures on a TV. Of course, with WiFi built in, you can also transfer shots to a smartphone or tablet, back up your media on a connected computer or boot content to a compatible television via DLNA. You can take a closer look at the Alpha 5000 in the gallery below. Expect it in stores this March in black, white and silver for $600, including the 16-50mm power-zoom lens.
Sony announces seven HD Handycam camcorders at CES, priced from $230 to $1,500
Bear with us here; Sony's announcing quite a few new Handycam models at this year's CES. At the pricier end of the spectrum, the HDR-CX900 sports a 1-inch CMOS sensor, 50 Mbps XAVC S recording, and a boatload of other high-end features. In fact, it's identical to the $2,000 AX100, though the CX900 excludes 4K-capture capabilities. That omission will save you 500 bucks, with this model shipping in late February for $1,500. Next up, the projector-equipped PJ810 will run you $1,100, and includes WiFi with NFC, 24.5-megapixel stills capture, a 26.8mm wide-angle G lens with hood, a 3-inch 921k-dot LCD and a 50-lumen projector. Meanwhile, for $700, you can pick up the PJ540, which sports a 5.1-channel mic, a 3-inch 460k-dot LCD, 32GB flash storage, WiFi, NFC, a 25-lumen projector and our favorite feature, Balanced Optical SteadyShot. At the lower end, you can pick up the PJ340, which includes a 26.8mm wide-angle G lens with optical SteadyShot, 16GB flash storage, WiFi, NFC and a 13-lumen projector for $480. Next up is the cheapest projector-equipped model, the PJ275. This $400 shooter features a 29.8mm Zeiss lens, 8GB flash storage, WiFi, NFC and a 13-lumen projector. Meanwhile, videographers on a budget may want to check out the $330 CX330, which ships with WiFi, NFC and a 26.8mm G lens with optical SteadyShot. The $230 CX240, however, does not include WiFi. It does feature a 9.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 29.8mm lens with digital stabilization, full HD (60p) capture and a 2.7-inch LCD. All seven models ship next month alongside several new accessories, including a $100 shotgun mic, ECM-W1M and ECM-AW4 $230 wireless microphones and a $30 lens filter for the PJ540.
Sony Action Cam update brings live streaming to older cameras this summer
Existing Action Cam owners will net two of the AS100V's banner features through a software update. The most significant addition, live streaming, will enable real-time video uploads to sharing sites like Ustream through a connected smartphone or tablet. Sony's also adding a high-speed continuous shooting mode, letting you snap a "limitless" number of high-res stills with previous-gen Action Cams. Expect both new features to make their way to your compatible shooter sometime this summer.
Sony's compact FDR-AX100 4K Handycam ships in March for $2,000 (hands-on)
Television manufacturers have been peddling 4K TVs for several years now, but just as we experienced during the early years of HD, limited content deters educated early adopters when it comes time to make a purchase. One solution for marketers, while an arguably weak selling point, is that consumers can capture their own 4K footage to play back for family and friends on a compatible high-res set. And while we're not yet ready to hop in line to make a pricey Ultra HD purchase, Sony's counting on at least a few deep-pocketed videographers to pull the trigger. If you're in the market for an affordable 4K camcorder, you probably won't do much better than Sony's FDR-AX100 Handycam. The AX100 is a reasonable alternative to Sony's recently announced AX1. This compact CES model is considerably more portable, with a 74 percent reduction in size and a 66 percent drop in weight. There's a 14.2-megapixel 1-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X processor, enabling full-resolution 4K shooting at 24p and 30p with XAVC S encoding. There's an optically stabilized Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with 12x optical zoom and a seven-bladed aperture, which Sony claims should offer some significant bokeh. A new My Voice Canceling feature reduces vocals from behind the camera, serving to minimize capturing the videographer's own voice. There's a 3.5-inch (921k-dot) LCD and an OLED viewfinder for framing; 1/4, 1/16 and 1/64 ND filters; WiFi with smartphone control; and output to a 4K TV via a single HDMI cable. Sony's Handycam AX100 4K camcorder is set to ship in March for $2,000.