The new Insta360 GO 3S Retro Bundle brings a film-inspired shooting experience to the tiny POV camera.

Insta360 today announced the Insta360 GO 3S Retro Bundle, a special edition that brings the nostalgic charm of film photography to its tiny POV camera. The new bundle introduces a Retro Viewfinder, film-inspired filters, and accessories designed to recreate the tactile experience of classic cameras, while keeping the portability and hands-free shooting that define GO 3S.

Built around the 39g standalone camera, the Retro Bundle combines 4K video, hands-free POV capture, and Insta360’s leading FlowState Stabilization with a playful, retro-inspired shooting style. Designed for creators who enjoy documenting everyday life, street photography enthusiasts, and those drawn to the aesthetic of classic cameras, the GO 3S Retro Bundle offers a new way to capture spontaneous moments.

A retro-inspired shooting experience.

The Retro Bundle introduces several accessories that recreate the tactile feel of classic cameras while keeping GO 3S’s signature portability.

Retro Viewfinder

At the center of the bundle is the Retro Viewfinder, which pairs with the standalone GO 3S camera to create a retro digital camera inspired by vintage film cameras. The optical waist-level viewfinder allows users to roughly frame shots without looking at a screen, encouraging a slower, more intentional approach to photography.

The viewfinder also includes a built-in selfie mirror for quick handheld self-portraits.

Battery Pack

The included Battery Pack extends recording time to up to 76 minutes and supports charging while recording, allowing creators to shoot longer sessions without interruption.

NFC Custom Skin

The NFC Custom Skin enables instant access to the Insta360 app. By tapping a smartphone against it, users can instantly open the Insta360 app to preview footage, edit clips or adjust settings.

Strap & Magnet Pendant

The bundle also includes a strap for easy everyday carry, allowing users to wear the camera like a necklace or attach it to bags and accessories. The popular Magnet Pendant, a signature GO 3S accessory, is also included for hands-free POV shooting by magnetically mounting the camera to clothing.

Film-inspired filters and new creative tools.

To complement the retro hardware design, the GO 3S Retro Bundle introduces three exclusive film-style filters:

• Negative Film: A softer look with cooler tones and lower saturation inspired by classic negative film.
• Positive Film: A bold style with stronger contrast and saturation reminiscent of slide film.
• Sticker Filter: Inspired by pre-exposed film, this filter adds a choice of three retro-style patterns and film-like colors to photos, creating playful sticker-like overlays.

GO 3S also features 11 built-in color profiles, including five new film-inspired styles introduced with the Retro Bundle: NC, CC, GR-F, Mono and Vintage Vacation. These profiles allow creators to capture stylized photos straight out of the camera without post-processing.

The Insta360 app takes on the role of the Action Pod, allowing users to switch shooting modes, adjust settings, and apply filters directly from their phone, while also providing the app’s built-in editing tools. Both iOS and Android users can also make use of Live Activities, which provides quick recording controls and camera status updates directly from the phone’s lock screen.

A tiny camera for everyday creativity.

While the Retro Bundle focuses on photography and spontaneous everyday capture, it retains the core capabilities of Insta360 GO 3S.

Weighing just 39g, the retro digital camera can be worn, mounted or placed almost anywhere to capture immersive first-person perspectives, completely hands-free. The built-in magnetic mounting system allows users to quickly attach the camera to clothing, metal surfaces or creative positions that would be impossible with larger cameras.

The camera can shoot stunning 4K video with leading FlowState Stabilization, ensuring smooth footage even during movement. When inspiration strikes, QuickCapture allows recording to start instantly with a single button press. GO 3S is also waterproof up to 33ft (10m), making it easy to capture everything from city exploration to underwater moments.

After shooting, creators can take advantage of FreeFrame Video, which allows footage to be exported in any aspect ratio for social media. The Insta360 app also includes tools like Auto Editing, which automatically finds highlights and edits them together to music, and the Stats Dashboard, which overlays real-time data from Apple, Garmin, COROS, or iGPSPORT devices to turn everyday clips into shareable content.

By pairing GO 3S with the Retro Viewfinder, the bundle delivers a distinctive shooting experience that blends nostalgic camera design with the creative flexibility of a tiny POV camera, perfect for creative photography, spontaneity and everyday storytelling.

Available now

The Insta360 GO 3S Retro Bundle is available today from the Insta360 store in Canvas White and Classic Red. It includes the standalone camera, Retro Viewfinder, Battery Pack, NFC Custom Skin, a Strap, Magnet Pendant, Lens Guard (pre-installed) and a USB-C to A Cable. Two storage options are available: 64GB and 128GB, priced at US$279.00 and US$299.00, respectively.

The post New Insta360 GO 3S Retro Bundle Turns the Tiny POV Camera Into a Film-Inspired Street Camera appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Insta360 today announced the Mic Pro, a flagship wireless microphone system that transforms sound into something you can see and own. Designed for creators, filmmakers, podcasters, and event professionals who demand professional-grade results without professional-grade complexity, Mic Pro introduces two industry-first technologies: a customizable E-Ink display and a 3-microphone array.https://www.youtube.com/embed/JzeYPwpdQv4?si=lv8__JHSyx5BijCN

Beyond professional production, Mic Pro is designed for a new generation of creators, enabling everyday storytelling with audio that is not only heard, but seen and personal. Your microphone is no longer just a tool. It carries your name, your logo, your identity, all the way through to the shot.

Together, these technologies address limitations that have plagued the wireless audio category for years.

Customizable E-Ink Display: An Industry First

Mic Pro is the first wireless microphone to feature a customizable E-Ink display on each transmitter.

Via the Insta360 app, users upload any graphic: station logos, channel art, talent names, or production identifiers. The screen displays it persistently, even when the unit is powered off. On a busy set with multiple transmitters, instant visual identification replaces guesswork.

The choice of E-Ink over OLED is functional as well as distinctive. E-Ink consumes power only during screen refresh, not while displaying a static image, which contributes meaningfully to battery life during extended production days.

Under direct sunlight, where OLED screens wash out and become unreadable, E-Ink remains sharp and high-contrast without glare. For outdoor productions, field recording, and live events, this is a reliability advantage that OLED-equipped competitors simply cannot match.

What Makes Insta360’s New Wireless Microphone Different?

Industry-First, High-Performance 3-Mic Array With Polar Patterns

Conventional wireless microphones rely on a single omnidirectional capsule. The pickup pattern is fixed, and users cannot adapt to different acoustic environments without switching hardware entirely.

Mic Pro integrates three microphones into each transmitter. Digital signal processing dynamically combines their input to emulate distinct polar patterns, selectable from the receiver or the Insta360 app. The result is a single device that adapts to the environment rather than the other way around, with the right pickup pattern ready for each shooting scenario. When mounted on a camera for video shoots, the cardioid configuration functions as a directional shotgun mic, giving run-and-gun filmmakers precise front-focused capture without additional hardware.

Omnidirectional mode opens up the pickup area for relaxed, ambient capture. Cardioid mode tightens the pickup to the front, ideal for vlogging, solo livestreams, ASMR, and voiceover. Figure-8 mode captures from both front and rear, built for interviews and two-person conversations.

AI noise cancellation is powered by an onboard NPU chip, designed to reduce background interference without compromising vocal quality. Unlike standard noise reduction that can flatten or dull a voice, the NPU processes sound with greater precision to preserve natural tone and clarity. Wind, crowd noise, and ambient interference are reduced while voices remain clear and lifelike.

32-Bit Float Recording: The End of Clipped Audio

At the core of Mic Pro’s audio is 32-bit float internal recording.

Unlike conventional 24-bit recording systems that clip when audio exceeds a set threshold, 32-bit float captures a dynamic range so wide that clipping is effectively eliminated. A whisper and a sudden shout can coexist in the same recording without either being lost.

In post-production, normalization replaces the stress of real-time gain management, saving takes that would otherwise be ruined by unexpected loud sounds during interviews, ceremonies, and live events.

32GB Built-In Storage: An Onboard Safety Net

Each transmitter records independently to 32GB of onboard memory, providing a continuous safety net against wireless interference or camera failure. Recordings auto-split every 30 minutes to prevent file size limitations from interrupting long takes.

Stereo internal recording, a feature unique to Mic Pro in this class, captures immersive ambient soundscapes and ASMR-quality audio directly to the transmitter at up to 32-bit float quality.

For additional control, Auto Gain Control offers two modes. Prevent Clipping (Auto) handles unpredictable high-dynamic environments, while Dynamic Mode suits controlled indoor recording where consistent output levels matter most.

Scalability Beyond Two Channels

Most compact wireless systems hard-cap at two transmitters per receiver. Mic Pro breaks that ceiling with two configurations designed for the most demanding multi-source audio scenarios.

4-to-1 mode connects four transmitters to a single receiver, feeding four isolated tracks without external mixers. Podcasters, panel moderators, and interviewers can scale to four guests while retaining individual track control in post.

2-to-4 mode distributes two transmitters across four receivers simultaneously, solving the audio distribution challenge in multi-camera productions. Weddings, corporate events, and broadcast setups that run several cameras can now share clean audio without complex routing or cable infrastructure.

Four-channel output is available when connecting to compatible Sony cameras via the Camera Adapter, enabling 48kHz 24-bit digital audio across all four tracks (adapter sold separately).

Direct Insta360 Camera Connection

Mic Pro pairs directly with Insta360 cameras, including X5, X4 Air, Ace Pro 2, andGO Ultra, via Bluetooth. This delivers 48kHz high-fidelity audio without a receiver, eliminating a piece of hardware from the kit entirely for creators already in the Insta360 ecosystem.

Dual-transmitter direct connection will be available with upcoming Insta360 camera releases.

All-Day Power With Fast Charging

Each transmitter delivers 10 hours of standalone battery life, extending to 30 hours with the included charging case.

A 5-minute fast charge provides up to one additional hour of recording time, enough to get back to action between setups. The receiver syncs its power state with the connected camera automatically, and both transmitter and receiver support auto power-off to conserve battery when not in use.

Timecode Sync and Broad Device Compatibility

Mic Pro supports timecode sync via a high-precision TCXO oscillator, maintaining less than one frame of drift across 24 hours and keeping audio locked to video across every device on a multi-camera production.

The system connects to DSLR and mirrorless cameras via 3.5mm audio cable, to smartphones via USB-C or Lightning adapters, and integrates natively with the Insta360 ecosystem via Bluetooth. It is compatible with virtually every camera, phone, and recorder in professional use today.

At a Glance

• Industry-first customizable E-Ink display on each transmitter for visual identity and instant set recognition
• 3-microphone array with selectable polar patterns (omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8), functioning as a shotgun mic when camera-mounted
• NPU-powered AI noise cancellation preserving natural voice clarity
• 32-bit float internal recording: clipping is mathematically impossible
• 32GB onboard memory with stereo internal recording, unique in class
• Scalable multi-channel audio: 4-to-1 and 2-to-4 configurations
• Direct Bluetooth connection to Insta360 cameras including X5, X4 Air, Ace Pro 2, and GO Ultra
• 10-hour transmitter battery, 30 hours with charging case, 5-minute fast charge

Availability

The wireless microphone market has long forced a compromise: portability or capability, but rarely both. Mic Pro eliminates these friction points with high performance and its unique E-Ink display.

Insta360 Mic Pro is available now, with a new buyer’s guide from Insta360 that covers the differences across its audio range here. The 2 TX + 1 RX kit starts from US$329.99, with additional configurations available at the Insta360 Official Store and Amazon, as well as authorized distributors worldwide.

Key Specs

Keen to keep up to date on Insta360 stories? Keep an eye on our blog and sign up for our mailing list. Got a story to share? Email yours to communitystories@insta360.com and win up to US$50.

The post Insta360 Launches Mic Pro: A Wireless Microphone Solving Professional Audio’s Biggest Pain Points appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

We’re excited to officially launch Insta360 Flow 2! A more affordable, creator-friendly evolution of the gimbal we’ve spent years refining. It’s built for anyone with a story to tell, be that playing with kids, group vlogs, video calls, or just a quiet solo trip.

With built-in 3-axis stabilization, NFC One-Tap Shooting, a sturdy selfie stick and tripod, Deep Track 4.0, Multi Person Tracking and Active Zoom Tracking, all with a 10-hour battery, Flow 2 keeps the best of what creators love, now at a price that makes it more accessible than ever.

“With Flow 2, we’re taking everything we’ve learned from developing the Flow series, and making it easier for more people to create,” shares JK Liu, founder of Insta360. “It’s designed to make smartphone shooting that much better, packed full of features, while remaining portable and accessible.”

A True All-in-One Companion

Folding up to fit snugly in your bag or pocket, Flow 2 comes complete with a built-in selfie stick, a sturdy metal tripod, and a 10-hour battery that can even charge your phone while you shoot.

Flow 2 features NFC One-Tap Shooting* for supported phones, letting you skip the Bluetooth pairing process and jump straight into the Insta360 app’s shooting page. Just tap your phone and you’re in!

For Android users, there’s also an optional Quick Launch setting in the Insta360 app that automatically opens your native phone camera when you unfold the gimbal, too.

Smarter Tracking, Smoother Shots

At the heart of Flow 2 is our smartest tracking tech yet: Deep Track 4.0.

The latest rendition of our AI tracking brings sweeping updates to subject identification (even when obstructed by obstacles), and better support for tracking full groups. This works incredibly well if you’re vlogging with friends, or filming a group dance or performance, ensuring nobody is left out of shot!

There’s also the handy Pro Framing Grid, using Insta360’s golden ratio tech to allow for 9 unique angles (simply tap the screen, Flow 2 will accomodate your subject), to ensure you get perfect framing for your environment.

Even better, you can control your Flow 2 remotely via Apple Watch or a second smartphone. It’s perfect for those moments when the whole family wants to be in the shot. No more awkwardly asking strangers for help!

As Max Richter, Co-founder and VP of Marketing, puts it: “Flow 2 is an exciting addition to our gimbal lineup. Its accessible pricing combined with plenty of exciting features really positions it as an everyday gimbal far ahead of the competition.”

Vlog-Ready with the New Insta360 Mic Air

We’ve made vlogging easier with tools like the new Insta360 Mic Air for hands-free audio, letting you capture clearer voiceovers or commentary whether you’re walking, cooking, or unboxing.

Combined with the new Teleprompter feature via the Insta360 app, you’ll have perfect live cooking demos, product showcases, and more! Simply load your script and it’ll scroll while you record with your phone’s camera.

Flow 2 also includes the AI Tracker, which enables subject tracking in third-party apps that don’t natively support it, especially helpful for Android users, offering powerful tracking capabilities across more platforms. Better yet, it includes a built-in spotlight for natural shots even at night!

Once you’re done filming, the AI Editing Suite can auto-trim and polish your footage for you as well!

Flow 2 vs. Flow 2 Pro: What’s the Difference?

Flow 2 and Flow 2 Pro share most of the same smart shooting features, but Flow 2 Pro adds some hardware and design upgrades for creators who want even more:

If you want the most advanced mobile gimbal out there, Flow 2 Pro is for you. If you want the best value in the game, Flow 2 hits that sweet spot.

Built for Real Life

We designed Flow 2 with a clear goal: pack in the powerful tools creators love, drop the friction, and make the price more accessible. From the first tap to the final edit, it’s designed to be smooth, powerful, and accessible.

For those looking for the most flexibility in how they approach smartphone filming, or require advanced shots like 360 Infinite Pan Tracking or tilt shots, Flow 2 Pro is not going anywhere, and may be your ideal pick for smarter shots on mobile.

Insta360 Flow 2 is available now, starting from $109.99 for the Standard Bundle, or $129.99 for the AI Tracker Bundle. Both bundles are available via the Insta360 Store, Amazon, and global retailers.

*NFC pairing is supported on select phone models. Further compatibility details available at insta360.com.

Keen to keep up to date on Insta360 stories? Keep an eye on our blog and sign up for our mailing list. Got a story to share? Email yours to communitystories@insta360.com and win up to US$50.

The post Insta360 Unveils Flow 2: Affordable, All-in-One Smartphone Gimbal for Effortless Content Creation appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Insta360 is excited to announce the expansion of the Insta360 X5 ecosystem with the launch of Insta360 Mic Air, a compact wireless microphone for Insta360 cameras. And that’s not all. The new Ultimate Creator Bundle pairs Mic Air with essential accessories tailored for social-first storytelling, delivering an all-in-one solution for everything from travel vlogs to short-form content.

Insta360 Mic Air: Wireless Audio Made Easy

Mic Air is Insta360’s first wireless microphone, weighing just 7.9g and designed for simplicity and portability.

Key features include:

• Instant audio upgrade for X5 with no adapters or receivers required.
• Magnetic clip for easy mounting on clothing.
• Remote control to start/stop recording, toggle noise reduction and mute/unmute.
• 48kHz/24-bit audio with built-in noise reduction and a removable windshield for clearer sound.
• Compatible with X5, Ace Pro 2, Flow Series, smartphones and more.

For wider compatibility, a transmitter + receiver bundle (the 1 TX + 1 RX Bundle) is also available and is compatible with most modern smartphones, tablets, computers, and Insta360 Flow Series gimbals.

Whether sharing daily vlogs or going live on the go, Mic Air is a streamlined solution for anyone looking to capture high-quality audio anywhere.

Ultimate Creator Bundle: The Perfect X5 Content Creation Setup

Insta360 is also releasing the Ultimate Creator Bundle for Insta360 X5, a streamlined content creation kit that includes Mic Air and the following accessories:

• Bullet Time Selfie Stick 2.0
  Capture unique perspectives at 65°, 75°, and 90° shooting angles, with a maximum length of 120cm. This upgraded selfie stick combines the invisible selfie stick effect with Bullet Time in a compact, portable package.
• Quick Reader
  Shoot and store simultaneously with our latest Quick Reader. Easily transfer footage to your phone, tablet, or laptop via the built-in USB-C or Lightning port. Shooting long sessions? It also supports pass-through charging.

Designed to be lightweight, travel-friendly and vlog-ready, this bundle makes it easier than ever to shoot once and post everywhere.

A Complete Content Creation Suite With the Insta360 App

When paired with the Insta360 app, this bundle turns the world’s best-selling 360° camera into a social-first content creation suite. With features like FlashCut and Shot Lab, creators can turn both 360° and flat footage into exciting, social-ready content in minutes.

The app lets you choose between effortless AI editing or full manual control—adapting to your workflow as a central hub for shooting, editing, and sharing. Completely free.

A Glimpse Into Insta360’s Ecosystem

The release of Mic Air marks another milestone in Insta360’s foray into the audio space, signaling a broader push toward a fully integrated accessory ecosystem for both casual and professional content creators. Extended compatibility via firmware updates is planned for future releases—including support for additional Insta360 cameras and a Lightning version for iOS devices.

Pricing & Availability

Insta360 Mic Air is priced at US$49, with the 1 TX + 1 RX Bundle available for US$69. The Insta360 X5 Ultimate Creator Bundle retails for US$669. All products are available now at Insta360 Store and Amazon.

For creators looking to enhance their vlogging setup or explore wireless audio for the first time, Mic Air offers a compelling new addition to the X5 ecosystem.

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Insta360 today announced Insta360 Wave, a professional-grade speakerphone with an integrated AI recording suite, built to set a new standard for clarity, intelligence, and usability in meetings, podcasts, and beyond.

Sporting a unique levitating design, Insta360 Wave comes with an 8-microphone 3D array, advanced AI-powered noise cancellation and dereverberation, as well as seamless integration with the simultaneously launched Insta360 InSight AI meeting assistant.

“With Insta360 Wave, we’ve combined professional audio capture with an AI system that makes every conversation searchable, shareable, and smarter,” said Max Richter, VP of Marketing and Co-Founder at Insta360. “This is the kind of solution that gives workplaces and solo creators far more than other speakerphones today.”

Insta360 Wave stands as a complete platform for capturing, better understanding, and sharing conversations. It’s available from September 25, 2025, via the Insta360 Store, Amazon, and more retailers starting at US$299.99.

Superior Audio Quality

At its core, Wave is engineered for professional-grade sound.

An 8-mic 3D array captures voices in Hi-Fi 48kHz detail from up to 16ft away. AI noise reduction eliminates over 300 types of background sound, from keyboard clicks to street noise.

Acoustic echo cancellation and automatic gain control work in tandem to ensure natural, balanced voices without spikes. AI dereverberation removes hollow or distant tones for a crisp, true-to-life sound. All of this, with full duplex technology for smooth, two-way conversation with no dropouts or delays.

Intuitive Touch Control

Wave’s sleek touchscreen interface makes operation simple and tactile. With just a tap or swipe, you can toggle the mic on or off, adjust volume, or start and stop recordings.

The interface also lets you mute or adjust sound on the fly. And when it’s time to wrap up, you can upload directly to the cloud with a single swipe.

Adaptive Beamforming

No matter your setup, Wave adapts to ensure your sound is optimized. With adaptive beamforming, a capability typically reserved for professional microphones, you can select from five distinct pickup patterns to suit your scenario:

• Omni: 360-degree pickup for group discussions.
• Cardioid: Focused front capture for online meetings and podcasts.
• Supercardioid: Suppresses ambient noise even further, perfect for busy offices.
• Figure-8: Captures front and back, ideal for two-person interviews.
• Stereo: Wide, natural audio for creative recordings like ASMR or music.

Meeting Recording & Local Storage

With a handy touchscreen interface, Wave doubles as a portable, standalone recorder.

With 32GB of built-in storage, Wave is capable of storing up to 1,000 hours of audio. A single tap starts recording, while tagging and muting ensure you stay in control.

Future-ready features like AI pre-recording (capturing the last 5 minutes before hitting record) add peace of mind for unscripted moments.

AI Transcription & Meeting Assistant

Wave works hand-in-hand with the newly launched Insta360 InSight, a powerful AI agent that transforms conversations into actionable knowledge by offering:

• Transcription in 99 languages.
• Speaker identification and voiceprint labeling for clear attribution.
• Custom workplace-specific glossaries to ensure industry-term accuracy.
• Smart summaries and to-do lists to keep projects moving.
• AI Q&A and chat (with the option to utilize ChatGPT and Gemini) for instant answers, traceable to specific timestamps.
• Unlimited cloud storage, automatically backing up recordings.

As a limited-time offer, early Wave buyers receive free access to the InSight Basic Plan, which includes 300 minutes of monthly transcription, storage, and standard templates.

Users can upgrade to the Pro Plan, which offers up to 1200 minutes of transcription and deeper AI features.

Smarter Together: Insta360 Wave + Insta360 Link 2

For users seeking an all-in-one solution, Wave integrates seamlessly with the best-selling Insta360 Link 2 AI webcam. Simply mount the webcam on top of Wave for a complete video-and-audio setup with synchronized controls.

Wave’s Direction of Arrival detection enables Insta360 Link 2 to automatically switch focus between speakers, unlocking wire-free speaker tracking for smarter, smoother multi-person meetings.

Accessories & Expansion

Wave launches with a set of accessories for effortless integration in any setup:

• Y-Cable: Enables charging and data transfer simultaneously.
• Table Mount: Secures Wave for stable use in meeting rooms.

Additional options like the Desktop Controller allow for advanced configuration and control.

Wave will also support multi-device wireless connections*, allowing multiple units to link together to cover large meeting spaces, making it a scalable option for dynamic teams.

*Available via a future firmware update.

Pricing & Availability

Insta360 Wave is available worldwide from September 25, 2025, via the Insta360 Store, Amazon, and select retailers, starting at US$299.99.

• Early adopters receive a free subscription to the InSight Basic Plan (limited-time offer).
• The Pro Plan (US$99.99 annually, or US$17.99/month) includes 1200 minutes of transcription, advanced templates, industry glossaries, and AI Chat, powered by ChatGPT and Gemini.
• Extra transcription credits are available on demand.

A New Standard for Smarter Meetings

With Wave, Insta360 has reimagined what a speakerphone can be: not just a device for sound, but a tool that remembers, organizes, and empowers. Whether for work, learning, or creation, Wave is built for anyone who values clarity and intelligence in communication.

Keen to keep up to date on Insta360 stories? Keep an eye on our blog and sign up for our mailing list. You can also contact our Enterprise team directly to see how 360 cameras can benefit your business.

The post Insta360 Wave Released: AI Speakerphone for Smarter Meetings appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

Today we’re diving into the Insta360 X5, a flagship 360 camera that claims 8K video, replaceable lenses, and a seriously upgraded battery. If you’re into immersive content, travel vlogging, or adventure filmmaking, this might be the most adventure-proof 360 camera to hit the market. The Insta360 X5 was launched in April 2025, and it brings major upgrades over previous models.

Specs

Insta360 X5 vs Insta360 X4: What’s Actually Different?

When comparing the Insta360 X5 to the Insta360 X4, the upgrades are focused on performance, durability, and flexibility for creators.

The X5 introduces dual 1/1.28-inch sensors, which improve low-light performance compared to the smaller sensors on the X4. It also adds replaceable lenses — something the X4 doesn’t offer — making it far more practical for long-term use, especially since 360 lenses are easily damaged.

In terms of video, both cameras offer high resolutions, but the X5 delivers 8K at 30fps and 5.7K at 60fps with better frame rate flexibility. Battery life is also improved on the X5, particularly at mid-range resolutions, giving it more endurance for longer shoots.

Waterproofing sees a bump too. The X5 is IP68 rated and can go down to 15 meters without a housing, slightly deeper than the X4. Combined with improved drop resistance and a more rugged design, the X5 clearly steps ahead in durability, endurance, and low-light capability.

Who Should Buy the Insta360 X5?

This camera is ideal for:

• Serious content creators
• Travel vloggers
• Adventurers
• Water sports enthusiasts
• Anyone wanting immersive 360 content day or night

If you want the best 360 camera without moving into full pro 360 rigs, the X5 hits a serious sweet spot.

If you already own the X4 and don’t need 8K or improved low light, you could wait it out. But if rugged durability, waterproofing, and replaceable lenses matter to you — the X5 becomes very compelling.

Price in South Africa

The Insta360 X5 retails for approximately:

• R13,999 (Standard version)
• R16,999 (Essentials Creator Combo)

It’s available in:

• Midnight Black
• Arctic White

It’s definitely premium-priced compared to other 360 and non-360 cameras — but the content quality is next level.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• 8K 360 video
• Excellent low-light performance
• Replaceable lenses
• IP68 waterproofing (no housing required for 15m)
• Bigger battery
• Wind guard for noise reduction

Cons:

• Heavier (200g)
• Thicker body
• Battery drains faster at max settings
• Premium pricing

Final Verdict on the Insta360 X5

When it comes down to it, the Insta360 X5 is an excellent device. The image quality is strong across the board, and the dual 1/1.28-inch sensors really show their value in low-light conditions, especially when paired with PureVideo mode. Whether you’re shooting during the day or pushing into night scenes, the results hold up.

The addition of 8K 360 video gives creators serious flexibility when reframing footage, while 5.7K at higher frame rates keeps motion smooth and usable for more dynamic content. On top of that, the rugged, IP68 waterproof build means you can take it into rain, wind, and underwater environments without stressing about extra housing.

What really sets it apart, though, is the replaceable lens design. With 360 cameras, lens damage is always a risk, and being able to swap a lens instead of replacing the entire unit makes this far more practical for real-world use.

Overall, the Insta360 X5 stands out as one of the most adventure-proof 360 cameras to come to market, combining high resolution, strong low-light performance, durability, and flexibility in one compact device.

The post Insta360 X5 Review: 8K 360 Camera With Replaceable Lenses & Bigger Battery appeared first on Tech Scene ZA.

2025 has been an exciting year for technology. From powerful gaming machines to innovative cameras and smart devices, brands have pushed performance, portability, and creativity further than ever. Here’s my personal list of the top tech of 2025, covering the best laptops, smartphones, cameras, and gaming devices you should know about.

Best Gaming Laptop of 2025: MSI Cyborg

The MSI Cyborg is an excellent gaming laptop for 2025, especially for gamers who want strong performance without an extreme price tag. It delivers solid gaming power, a sleek futuristic design, and dependable cooling for long sessions. Whether you’re playing competitive esports titles or modern AAA games, the Cyborg handles it smoothly while still being portable enough for daily use.

Favorite Camera of 2025: Instax Mini 41

The Instax Mini 41 proves that instant cameras are still fun and relevant in 2025. It’s easy to use, stylish, and perfect for capturing memories you can physically hold. With improved exposure and reliable print quality, it’s a great pick for casual photography and social moments.

Favorite Peripheral of 2025: Endorfy Thock TKL

The Endorfy Thock TKL is a fantastic tenkeyless mechanical keyboard that balances performance and desk space. It’s ideal for gaming and productivity, offering satisfying key switches, solid build quality, and a compact layout that fits perfectly into any setup.

Most Innovative Device of 2025: Acer AI TV Box

The Acer AI TV Box stands out as one of the most innovative devices this year. With AI-powered features that enhance streaming, recommendations, and smart home integration, it transforms a standard TV into a smarter, more personalized entertainment hub.

Best Productivity Laptop of 2025: MSI Modern 14

For work, school, and everyday productivity, the MSI Modern 14 shines. It’s lightweight, efficient, and powerful enough for multitasking, content creation, and office work. Its clean design and long battery life make it a reliable daily driver.

Best Portable Laptop of 2025: ASUS Zenbook A14

The ASUS Zenbook A14 is the definition of portability. Thin, light, and premium, it’s perfect for students and travelers who need power on the go. Despite its compact size, it still delivers strong performance and an excellent display.

Best Gaming Handheld of 2025: Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 takes handheld gaming to the next level. With upgraded hardware, better performance, and support for both handheld and docked play, it continues Nintendo’s winning formula while bringing modern improvements gamers have been waiting for.

Most Improved Handheld of 2025: ASUS ROG XBOX Ally X

The ASUS ROG XBOX Ally X shows massive improvement over previous handheld gaming PCs. Better ergonomics, improved performance, and deeper Xbox integration make it a much more polished and enjoyable device for serious handheld gamers.

Best Budget Smartphone of 2025: Honor 400 Lite

The Honor 400 Lite is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot to get a great smartphone. It offers solid performance, a good display, and dependable cameras, making it one of the best budget-friendly phones available in 2025.

Best Midrange Smartphone of 2025: Honor 400 Pro

Stepping up, the Honor 400 Pro delivers flagship-like features at a midrange price. With a strong processor, high-quality display, and versatile camera system, it’s one of the best value smartphones of the year.

Best Smartphone Camera of 2025: Huawei Pura 80 Pro

When it comes to mobile photography, the Huawei Pura 80 Pro leads the pack. Its advanced camera hardware and image processing deliver stunning photos in both daylight and low-light conditions, making it the top choice for camera-focused users.

Most Innovative Camera of 2025: Insta360 Go Ultra

The Insta360 Go Ultra is one of the most creative cameras released this year. Ultra-compact and incredibly versatile, it’s perfect for action shots, vlogging, and creative angles that traditional cameras simply can’t capture.

Final Thoughts

2025 has delivered an amazing lineup of tech across every category. Whether you’re a gamer, student, content creator, or casual user, there’s something on this list that stands out. Innovation, performance, and value are stronger than ever, and it’s exciting to see where technology goes next.

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If you’ve been searching for a compact, hands-free 4K action camera, the new Insta360 Go Ultra might just be your next must-have gadget. Building on the success of the Go series, this new model brings bigger power, better image quality, and more flexibility, all while staying ultra-portable. Let’s dive into what makes the Insta360 Go Ultra one of the most exciting tiny cameras of 2025.

Insta360 Go Ultra Specifications

Action Pod Specifications

Real-World Use: Who Is It For?

This camera is a dream tool for content creators, vloggers, athletes, and parents who want to capture unique perspectives without carrying bulky gear. The wearable design lets you record immersive footage while keeping your hands free, perfect for runners, cyclists, and event creators.

It’s also a strong choice for social media content creation thanks to its stabilization, HDR, and quick file transfer via the Insta360 app.

Pricing and Availability in South Africa

In South Africa, the Insta360 Go Ultra currently retails for around R11,500 at Foto First, and interestingly, that’s cheaper than the Go 3S, which sells for about R13,000. Check out the Insta360 Go Ultra here

Insta360 Go Ultra vs Insta360 Go 3S

The Go Ultra clearly improves on all major pain points — storage, runtime, and low-light performance — while maintaining the same user-friendly Insta360 ecosystem.

Pros and Cons of the Insta360 Go Ultra

Pros

• True 4K 60fps recording in a tiny, wearable form factor
• Larger sensor with noticeably better low-light performance
• Removable storage up to 2TB
• Improved Action Pod with longer runtime and flip screen
• Excellent stabilization and HDR performance

Cons

• Slightly heavier and bulkier than previous Go models
• Premium price tag (though still cheaper than Go 3S)
• Thermal buildup possible during long 4K sessions

Final Verdict: Is the Insta360 Go Ultra Worth It?

If you’re after a tiny, powerful, and versatile POV camera that doesn’t compromise on image quality, the Insta360 Go Ultra is an excellent choice. It fixes nearly every complaint users had with previous Go models, offering better runtime, storage flexibility, and image quality in one compact package.

While it’s not the smallest action camera out there, it’s one of the most capable, making it ideal for creators who value hands-free shooting and premium 4K performance.

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Insta360 is excited to announce Insta360 X4 Air, the newest addition to its acclaimed X Series. Compact, ultralight (165g), and packed with flagship-level features, including Emmy® Award-winning 360 technology, X4 Air brings 8K 360 video and AI-powered simplicity to creators who want to capture life as it truly happens: spontaneous and authentic.

A New Chapter

For over five generations, Insta360’s X Series has set the benchmark for 360 imaging, combining intuitive design, refined image quality, and powerful software that make immersive storytelling accessible to anyone. X4 Air carries that legacy forward, redefining portability and creative freedom.

Weighing just 165 grams, X4 Air is Insta360’s lightest-ever 8K 360 camera. It is built for the street, the trail, and everyday use, an ideal entry point for anyone looking to explore 360 storytelling for the first time. Dual 1/1.8-inch sensors and advanced image processing capture rich 8K detail and natural colors, while a sleek, travel-friendly body slips easily into a pocket or backpack.

“X4 Air is about capturing life as it happens,” said Max Richer, VP of Marketing and Co-Founder at Insta360. “It lets creators stay present while capturing everything around them. It’s for anyone who wants to film real life without the weight or complexity—a lighter, simpler way to tell stories.”

Sharper, Smarter, Smoother: Everyday Improvements That Matter

X4 Air takes everything creators loved about X4 and makes it lighter, smarter, and more intuitive. The upgrades focus on real-world performance rather than numbers, improving image quality and ease of use in every scenario.

Larger 1/1.8-inch sensors deliver crisper 8K footage with a 134% increase in pixel area per frame vs. X4, capturing better detail and more vivid color straight out of the camera. One of the biggest leaps comes from AdaptiveTone, Insta360’s intelligent exposure algorithm. AdaptiveTone analyzes light from both lenses independently to balance brightness and color across the full 360 image, protecting skies and shadow detail without heavy color grading.

Working in tandem is Active HDR. Now available up to 8K30fps, it boosts dynamic range in real time for lifelike highlights and shadows, even in challenging lighting. Portrait Mode complements this by automatically detecting faces and adjusting brightness and color to deliver smooth, natural skin tones without heavy editing. And when the light fades, enhanced algorithms and noise reduction keep night shots clean and detailed, producing vivid, usable footage long after the sun sets.

Durability gets an upgrade, too. X4 Air features user-replaceable lenses with an ultra-hard optical coating that doubles drop resistance compared to X4. Lenses swap in seconds if scratched, while optional lens guards add protection without glare. Waterproof to 49 feet (15 meters) and equipped with Insta360’s leading FlowState Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock, X4 Air is ready for any adventure.

Portability Meets Performance

X4 Air blurs the line between everyday tool and professional camera. While X5 remains the flagship for creators who demand the highest image quality, X4 Air brings many of its best features to a compact, travel-ready design. Both sport 8K30fps 360 video, replaceable lenses, and a built-in wind guard, but X4 Air does it in a 165-gram body designed for movement and ease.

Where X5 is engineered for precision, X4 Air is made for freedom. It’s lighter, easier to handle, and compatible with most X5 accessories. For creators who want pro results without the bulk, X4 Air offers the ideal balance of performance and portability.

Your All-in-One Creative Companion

Real life doesn’t pause for perfect framing, and neither does X4 Air. Its dual fisheye lenses capture every angle, so you can stay in the moment while the camera records it all. Later, you can easily reframe footage in the Insta360 app to uncover new perspectives and share moments you didn’t even know you caught.

Designed to replace an entire kit, X4 Air lets you film sweeping 360 views, immersive 4K60fps POVs, smooth walk-and-talk vlogs, and dynamic drone-like shots with the Invisible Selfie Stick—without the bulk or setup. For added flexibility, InstaFrame Mode records both a shareable flat video and a full 360 version simultaneously, so you can post immediately and still have complete freedom to re-edit later.

Smarter Control, Simpler Shooting

X4 Air is built to keep creators in the moment, with intelligent tools that make capturing easier than ever. Twist to Shoot lets you start or stop recording with a twist of the selfie stick, no need to fumble for buttons or screens. Gesture Control recognizes quick hand signals for taking photos or videos—ideal for group shots or when the camera’s mounted out of reach. And with Voice Control, you can command the camera hands-free so you never have to break focus or stop the action.

Whether you’re skiing, cycling, or simply recording with friends, X4 Air makes shooting effortless, giving you full creative control even when your hands are busy.

Effortless Editing, Instant Sharing

360 footage once meant hours of complex editing. With X4 Air, it takes minutes—or less. The Insta360 app turns raw 360 footage into dynamic, polished clips using AI-powered tools like Auto Edit, FlashCut, and AI Frame, which automatically identify highlights, apply transitions, and sync footage to music. Preset Perspectives let creators export perfectly framed videos in seconds, no manual reframing required.

X4 Air also integrates seamlessly with brands like Apple, Garmin, and HUAWEI, syncing location, movement, and performance data directly into your videos. Whether tracking your morning ride or a city run, your stats stay in sync across devices, making it easier than ever to tell the full story.

With Insta360+, the integrated cloud service, creators can back up footage automatically, edit from any device, and share their favorite moments instantly via a customizable link. Interactive 360 playback lets friends, family, and followers explore scenes as if they were there with you. Footage stays safe and ready to share, whether from your phone, tablet, or desktop. For a limited time, every X4 Air purchase includes a free one-year Insta360+ subscription with 200GB of storage.

For Every Creator, Everywhere

X4 Air is built for creators who want to capture more and carry less: travelers, vloggers, parents, athletes, and anyone who sees the world as a story waiting to be told. It balances simplicity for first-time users with the features and performance creators demand.

Insta360 X4 Air will be available starting October 28 in Graphite Black and Arctic White from store.insta360.com, Amazon, and select retailers, with US and Canada availability coming soon. The Standard Bundle retails for US$399.99, while the Starter Bundle, including a 114cm Invisible Selfie Stick, Lens Cap, and extra Battery, is priced at US$439.99. Both include a complimentary one-year Insta360+ subscription for a limited time.

Local Availability not currently confirmed!

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Insta360 is proud to reveal GO Ultra, the latest evolution in the world of compact cameras. Still tiny, still hands-free, now with serious power for superior image quality.

“GO Ultra takes the advancements made with the Ace and X series cameras, and puts them into the type of compact, pocket camera our GO Series creators enjoy,” said Insta360 Co-Founder and VP of Marketing, Max Richter, “opening up new creative opportunities without sacrificing portability.”

The 1/1.28″ sensor, which is 221% larger than its predecessor, and new 5nm AI chip deliver imaging previously impossible in the GO series. Ultra-smooth, ultra-crisp 4K60fps video is the new cinematic standard for pocket cameras, and creative limits are pushed even further by PureVideo, which uses cutting-edge AI algorithms to reduce visual noise and enhance brightness in low light.

At just 53g, the size of a smartwatch, and with a built-in magnetic base, you can mount the GO Ultra Standalone Camera anywhere and capture angles other cameras can only dream of. With an upgraded Magnet Pendant and a vast array of new accessories, from the peel-and-use Sticky Tabs to the wholly original Toddler Titan Hat Clip, a new world of immersive shooting awaits.

Just as intuitive is the upgraded Insta360 app, with powerful AI tools to instantly turn your footage into shareable content. Transitions, effects, music, and more can be added with just a few taps. Cyclists can add their data—GPS, heart rate, speed—from Strava or a third-party device that syncs in real-time to their footage. The new AI Family Moments feature collates all your loved ones’ magic moments into a virtual album to cherish forever.

GO Ultra’s blend of heavyweight power, lightweight portability, and ease of use makes it essential for vloggers with active lifestyles, families sharing milestones, or travelers searching for new horizons—people who live in the moment.

GO Hands-Free

Capture the moment as you live it with GO Ultra. Attach the Standalone Camera to the Magnet Pendant or Magnetic Easy Clip to record your POV totally hands-free. This is wearable tech that’s sleek and simple to use.

The Standalone Camera’s built-in magnetic base can be used on any metallic surface and combined with the Pivot Mount, Flexi Strap Mount, and more, opening a whole new range of creative third-person angles.

GO Ultra uses Bluetooth to broadcast in real time from the Standalone Camera to the Action Pod. Give it to your little ones to play with and see the world as they do on the 2.5″ flip touchscreen.

GO Wherever You Want

GO Ultra is so compact, it can be put in a pocket, kept in a handbag, and added to hand luggage without tipping the scales. The Standalone Camera weighs just 53g and is as small as an Oreo.

But don’t let the size fool you, GO Ultra is designed to be used anywhere. From your baby’s birthday bash to getting strapped to the front of a BMX for a gnarly downhill, it can handle anything, even a raw dive down to 33ft (10m) underwater, thanks to its IPX8 waterproofing. Shoot up in the mountains, down in the city, and deep under the waves all in one day.

GO with Unbeatable Clarity

GO Ultra’s huge 1/1.28″ sensor vastly increases the amount of light captured by the lens, and the new ambient light sensor reduces flickering and calibrates colors in real-time for more authentic footage. The powerful 5nm AI chip reduces visual noise while still improving processing time for smooth 4K60fps shooting.

This doesn’t only guarantee cinematic vacay videos, the addition of Active HDR and PureVideo, modes for enhancing low-light performance, means your shooting doesn’t have to stop when the sun sets. From the beachfront to the bonfire, GO Ultra captures it all.

GO All the Way

Your life doesn’t stop—why should your camera? GO Ultra banishes battery life and storage woes with the latest in battery tech and customizable storage.

The Standalone Camera has a runtime of 70 minutes on a single charge and a whopping 200 minutes when combined with the Action Pod. When you finally do hit zero, the fast charging system can get GO Ultra back to 80% in only 12 minutes; essential for catching every step of a marathon or all the sights on a leisurely weekend away.

And unlike GO 3S, which has fixed internal storage, GO Ultra uses removable microSD cards. Not only does this instantly give you up to 2TB of storage space, but when the card gets full, you can pop it out and replace it with a new one in seconds. Say farewell to awkward file transfers.

Upload, Edit, and GO

You hit that PR, cut the cake, saw the sunset—now it’s time to share it with the world. Using the free Insta360 app (available on iOS and Android), you can upload your clips in seconds and edit however you want with intuitive controls. Need it now? Use Auto Edit to automatically find your highlights and turn them into a masterpiece in moments.

Availability

Insta360 GO Ultra goes on sale August 21, 2025, at the Insta360 Store, Amazon, and select retailers worldwide. The Standard Bundle is priced at US$449.99 and includes GO Ultra (Standalone Camera and Action Pod) in either Midnight Black or Arctic White, a Quick Release Safety Cord, Magnetic Easy Clip, Magnet Pendant, USB-C cable, and a Lens Guard.

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