Tag: #webcam

OBSBOT Unveils the Tiny 2 Lite: Redefining Video Excellence at an Affordable Price

OBSBOT, the pioneer in AI smart imaging technology, proudly introduces the OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite, setting a new standard for affordable excellence in AI smart webcams.

Building on the groundbreaking legacy of the Tiny series, OBSBOT continues to push boundaries with innovative features tailored to meet the demands of remote workers and gaming enthusiasts.

The Tiny 2 Lite delivers uncompromising quality with advanced 4K imaging, Auto tracking with Auto Zoom, dual-omnidirectional microphones, Gesture Control 2.0, multiple shooting modes and a suite of other innovative features including beauty mode and privacy protections—creating the perfect blend of professional performance and user convenience.

The OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite is a feature-packed and affordable AI smart webcam, offering exceptional performance in a compact design.

Elevate Your Video Experience with Unmatched Clarity and Crystal-Clear Audio

Combining advanced technology with crystal-clear audio capabilities, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite boasts a large 1/2” CMOS sensor for breathtaking 4K video quality that captures every detail with precision, regardless of lighting conditions.

This elevated visual experience redefines virtual communication, making every interaction engaging and dynamic. Paired with dual-omnidirectional microphones featuring adjustable noise cancellation and human voice augmentation technology, the Tiny 2 Lite ensures crystal-clear sound in any environment—from gaming streams to video calls and beyond.

Intelligent Auto Tracking with Auto Zoom and Customizable Control

Equipped with enhanced Auto Tracking with Auto Zoom, the Tiny 2 Lite’s 2-axis gimbal and Deep Learning Neural Network Algorithm guarantee fluid, precise tracking that keeps subjects in focus effortlessly.

Thanks to a refined algorithm, this compact camera now supports hand tracking and bodypart tracking functions, elevating the filming experience to a new level of humanized control and flexibility. Users can seamlessly switch between Standard Mode and Motion Mode tracking options, adapting to different filming needs on the fly. 

Cutting-Edge Control at Your Fingertips

Gesture Control 2.0 empowers users with intuitive operation, allowing seamless zooming and focusing with simple hand gestures. Advanced PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus) technology ensures swift and precise focusing, capturing moments effortlessly.

Versatile and User-Friendly

Designed for versatility, the Tiny 2 Lite offers multiple shooting modes—including landscape, portrait, and even upside-down—accommodating diverse filming scenarios. Its compact, space-saving design incorporates an integrated stand for easy setup and stability.

Enhanced Features for a Complete Experience

In addition to its powerful imaging capabilities, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite comes equipped with a Beauty Mode that instantly smooths skin and brightens eyes, ensuring a radiant appearance with just one click. Privacy protection features, including Device Auto Sleep and customizable background uploads, safeguard user privacy during use.

Furthermore, the Tiny 2 Lite supports the OSC protocol, Stream Deck, and SDK, providing enhanced control and increased flexibility for users in broadcast, education, medical industries, and beyond.

Notably, a custom plugin makes Tiny 2 Lite compatible with Stream Deck+, allowing direct control through dials and seamless integration with other live streaming setups. This versatility makes the Tiny 2 Lite a top choice not only for professionals but also for any user seeking optimal customization and efficiency in their video setup.

Availability and Pricing

The OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite will be available globally in June 2024 on obsbot.com and major retailers worldwide. Pricing starts at $179 USD in the US, with regional variations. Visit the official website for more information on availability in your region.

Check out the Tiny 2 review

Elevate your video experiences with the future of intelligent imaging technology. Discover the OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite today.

For regional availability, please visit the product website and the  OBSBOT official store.

Tech Review – OBSBOT Tiny 2 AI-powered PTZ 4K Webcam

The OBSBOT Tiny 2 is an AI-powered PTZ 4K Webcam mounted on a 2-axil gimble allowing the movement/tracking as required, weighing in at 95.6g. This came with Built-in dual omnidirectional mics with noise reduction with a Power USB-Type C 3 Interface. The Tiny 2 while small felt solid to hold and a strong plastic material, The unit came with a Lightweight aluminum alloy Magnetism Adjustable Mount for Snap-On Installation. A separate kit was supplied as OBSBOT Meet Remote Control, with a Wireless Connection and an Extendable (optional) Tripod to mount the OBSBOT Tiny Series to adjust the height as required.

Contents 

The supplied USB-C to USB-A adapter is a bonus to allow multifunction connections to products. The supplied Storage case is ideal for hybrid working ensuring all components are packed away as neatly as required, which a standard USB C cable in use. 

As part of this review, Techbuzz Ireland used the optional accessories

  • OBSBOT Meet Remote Control
  • Extendable Tripod

Features

  • AI Tracking: Upgrade in AI tracking algorithms ensures smooth and accurate tracking of fast-moving objects, the addition of other faces, or changes in lighting conditions. Whether it’s a video call, presentation, or live streaming, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 webcam maintains focus on your target without losing sight.
  • Ultra Large 1/1.5” CMOS: Elevate your webcam experience with OBSBOT Tiny 2. It features an ultra-large 1/1.5″ CMOS sensor for unparalleled 4K, 30 frames webcam image quality.
  • Different Control Modes: Voice Control-Operate 4k webcam with easy and intuitive voice commands in English like “Hi, Tiny”, “Sleep Tiny” “Track Me”, “Unlock Me”， etc; Gesture Control 2.0-Based on the OBSBOT Tiny 4K webcam existing gesture control feature,
  • Multiple Modes: By downloading the OBSBOT WebCam App, you can enjoy the benefits of Beauty Mode, Desk Mode, Whiteboard Mode, Hand Mode, and Group Mode.
  • Various Placement Methods: Streaming webcam can be placed in four new shooting modes: Landscape, Portrait, Downward and Upside-down. These modes are suitable for video calls, vertical screen live streaming, desktop sharing, and remote teaching, providing a wider perspective and clearer details for the audience.

Compatible: Windows and Mac computers. 

Setup

The setup is standard in terms of connecting the Kit, which is connecting a UBC C cable to your laptop. Software can be downloaded to enhance the features via the install OBSBOT WebCam from https://www.obsbot.com/download, (If not downloaded basic features of AI Tracking, Gesture Control, Voice Control, etc, will work) Once downloaded the featured via voice, manual or remote can be enabled or disabled.

Voice command:

The OBSBOT Tiny 2 has voice controls which can turn on the Camera or put it to sleep. When using the voice controls the language used has to match exactly as per the instructions in the manual. It was noticed while this is an excellent feature, on occasion, this had to be repeated to ensure the voice was correctly picked up. The Features like track me when enabled via the AI are excellent in following the presenter around the room, with the option to change to go to a pre-stored position. This feature worked very well when the camera was put

 

OBSBOT Tiny Smart Remote 2

The Remote combines a presentation clicker and webcam remote control to control a multi-cam setup and preset positions.

Privacy Mode:

The Camera when disabled via the voice command “Sleep tiny”  or via the remote turns the camera via the 2-axle gimble to tilt down the camera to the ground ensuring privacy is observed when not in use. Again, simple but effective use of its technology. 

Warranty:  This is a disappointment with a 1-year warranty as standard. 

Conclusion:

Typically the word Tiny would indicate that this is smaller than the norm and lacks a punch for a product being of limited feature, How wrong could you be in terms of judging a book by its cover, The Tiny 2 came with the simple things done well, a USB C to C connection, an adapter to use USB A to your laptop as required, and a storage case. It’s small and lightweight, making it easy to transport. 

As an extra touch the Smart Remote 2 combines a presentation clicker and webcam remote allowing for a multitude of options, The supplied stand looks like a simple piece of metal but expands to a proper tripod stand allowing the adaption of its use from connected to a laptop to be used in a boardroom or taken to a presentation when out and about.

The kit has many features, Video Quality, Auto Focusing, Dual Native ISO via the bigger sensor  – 1/1.5’’ CMOS and Beauty Mode, ( smooths your skin and brightens your eyes), 

The  AI Features, are Auto Tracking with Auto Zoom, and Hands-free Voice Control one of my favourite features via its algorithm is  Hand Tracking. This allows the camera to follow your arm in any direction required,  thus focussing on a specific area or product as part of a presentation, this could then be changed to “Follow me” via voice command. The camera  Video Resolution of 4K@30fps, MJPEG, H264  with a 4x digital zoom would be sufficient for most users. 

The tiny is like a Swiss army knife of features allowing multiple uses, where manually control the camera, gesture, voice or via the remote. 

BUY

Video Review

Creative launches Live! Meet 4K webcam

Creative Technology today announced the release of Creative Live! Meet 4K, the latest conference webcam sporting an array of nifty features that sets the stage for a stunningly clear and seamless virtual conferencing experience. Equipped with an expansive wide-angle field of view, adjustable digital zoom, stunning 4K UHD resolution, and cutting-edge Sony STARVIS IMX415 CMOS imaging sensor, this latest conference webcam serves as the ideal tool for hosting virtual meetings, guiding online classrooms, and even exploring creative endeavours.

With 4K UHD resolution, backed by the Sony STARVIS IMX415 CMOS Imaging Sensor, the Creative Live! Meet 4K transforms virtual interactions into vivid experiences, teeming with intricate details, vibrant colours, and outstanding clarity. To complement this visual prowess, the Creative Live! Meet 4K also boasts an expansive wide-angle field of view, spanning up to 115°, making it an exceptional choice for accommodating numerous participants in a boardroom setting or capturing a wide range of visual content, such as whiteboard presentations. Moreover, this latest conference webcam offers an impressive 7X digital zoom capability, enabling users to zero in on crucial details without compromising image quality.

The Creative Live! Meet 4K is not just about crystal-clear visuals; it also features four pairs of ultra-sensitive omnidirectional microphones, ensuring comprehensive audio capture from all directions. This makes it the perfect to-go choice for recording or hosting conferences in large meeting rooms. What sets it apart is its automated microphone gain, which accurately picks up sound sources even from a distance, ensuring that every participant’s voice is heard loud and clear. Additionally, the conference webcam incorporates 40 mm Neodymium magnet speaker drivers to offer greater audio clarity and depth to enhance the overall communication and audio experience.

On top of that, the latest conference webcam comes with built-in AI tracking and framing technology, which automatically tracks the subject’s face based on AI facial recognition features. This intelligent technology ensures the subject remains consistently centred within the frame, even when they shift positions, providing users with a stable and hassle-free visual experience. Coupled with hand gestures, users can easily trigger specific actions by simply gesturing in front of the Creative Live! Meet 4K.

For added convenience, the conference webcam also comes with a remote control and accessible mic mute button, providing a seamless way to make quick adjustments without any interruption to ongoing conversations.

Setting up the Creative Live! Meet 4K is also a breeze, as it requires no additional driver installation and is compatible with all laptops and computers running on Windows and macOS platforms. Users can also leverage the SmartComms Kit that is available via the Creative App to access a suite of smart communication features such as VoiceDetect and NoiseClean-Out to ensure clearer communication whenever and wherever.

Pricing and Availability

Creative Live! Meet 4K is priced at US$299.99, UK£329.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/LiveMeet4K

Tech Review – AI Huddle Mini light 4K tracking webcam from Coolpo

The camera looked and felt solid, slightly heavier than many used before at 220g, which is relevant when connected to a laptop. The kit came with an effective manual private shutter with a USB Type-C port and white light on when the camera is in use. The included Microphone had a Pickup Range of 6m and was not obtrusive in the form of a camera. The camera is quoted as a 4K Real-Time Auto-Tracking webcam.

 Key features:

  •       Camera   Sensor Resolution  4K
  •       Digital Zoom  4x
  •       Field of View  120°
  •       Focal Length  2.02mm
  •       Aperture 2.5
  •       Encoding Format   H.265, H.264, MJPEG
  •       Resolution   4k 30fps, 2k 30fps, 1080P 30fps, 720P 30fps
  •       Image Noise Reduction  2D&3D Digital   noise reduction
  •       Microphone  Electret Microphone  Pickup Range 6m
  •       USB Protocol
  •       Operating System  Windows WIN 10 or above MacOS macOS 10.10 and above

 

 Compatibility :

 

 

Setup and use,

The software is standard in terms of download from https://www.coolpo.io/resources/download-coolpotools  with options for Mac or Windows. This was used on a Windows laptop which resulted in a Microsoft firewall wanting to block the installation and a separate Antivirus package doing similar. ( the software was double-checked, but no instances of any risks were noted rather a compatibility  related to anti-virus software )

The kit works directly from the box by plugging into the USB port on the laptop, but the Coolpotools software allows advanced features in terms of turning the AI  on / off.  This included the  Frame Master (Group and Individual Mode) and Division Master with 4K video conference solutions and a 120-degree Field of View (FOV).

 

Warranty 1 year

Conclusion:

The kit came in a nice packing with the key features displayed on the box. The supplied setup guide was clear and concise, while the manual on testing on a Windows laptop did not allow the downloading of the manuals, the software Coolpotoolsetup download caused 2 separate anti-virus packages to pop warning messages; both were found to be a false alarm which may need the manufacturers to work with the software vendors. The software was easy to set up and use and gave an extra multitude of features.

Typically, many manufacturers use the term AI in their software with little to show what it does.  The AI Huddle Mini light had a WOW feeling to the AI option when tested on the screen to move around the room and attempts to trick the software using the face of a teddy bear; this clearly distinguished the difference and had the faster response time I have seen on other webcams. The audio was surprisingly good, having used it at a distance from the unit on numerous calls.

Overall a pleasure to use; while there are slight niggles on the website, testing of the software and the lack of a carry case if carrying in a laptop bag etc., The AI  4 x Digital Zoom 4K@30fps  Real-Time Auto-Tracking webcam has been the best / fastest camera I have seen to follow the presenter on a call; Group Framing was good with the adjustable microphone pickup with a range of 6m to provide noticeable audio quality.

BUY –   https://store.coolpo.io/products/coolpo-ai-huddle-mini-lite

Video Review 

Tech Review – Anker PowerConf C200 Webcam

This is a reasonably sized device which can be carried around in a  laptop bag and can be connected to a Laptop etc via the ( good quality ) supplied USB A to USB C cable. The construction as expected from Anker is solid with an option to connect on a laptop screen or a tripod as required. The mounting has an angle bracket allowing flexibility in connection. The weight is light to ensure the Laptop screen does not fall over with the weight or can be mounted on a temporary workspace.

 

Features

  •       Make a Good Impression: The 2K ultra-clear resolution on this Mac Webcam brings sharp clarity to every meeting. Be seen by your peers or impress your boss with your high-quality video calls.
  •       Built-In Privacy Cover: Your privacy is important to us. When not in use, you can slide on the built-in privacy cover to shield yourself from the Mac Webcam’s view.
  •       Versatile Field of View: Adjust how much the Mac webcam can see by choosing the angle of the lens opening. You can pick from 65°, 78°, or 95° via the AnkerWork software to show just your face or include what’s behind you.
  •       Look Nice in Any Light: The larger aperture size captures more light so that even without a ring light in low-light settings, you can still look bright and professional with this computer camera.
  •       AI Noise Cancellation: Specialized dual mics use AI to pick up your voice while simultaneously reducing background noise for crystal-clear audio.

 

Features continued

The kit comes with a mechanical built-in privacy cover that allows you to block out the camera as required. The physical shutter is a useful feature that allows you to physically cover the camera lens when not in use, preventing unauthorised access to your webcam. However, note that the privacy cover is a mechanical system that only works for the video, not turning off the audio microphone.

 Setup & use:

The setup is easy and requires a Windows laptop reboot and running of the software. Once installed, the AnkerWork Software allows control of the image and adjusts the field of view as required. This supports audio and video input, such as Zoom, Teams Skype, OBS, etc. It is recommended to use the AnkerWork Software but the kit will work without any installation.

Note: it is recommended to use the AnkerWork Software but the kit will work without any additional software.

Without using the AnkerWork Software, Once you plug it into a Windows USB port it will be recognized by your computer automatically. No drivers or software are required but will have limited features in terms of Audio and video options.

 

 

 Quality

The webcam is capable of shooting 2K video at 30 frames per second and has an adjustable field of view. This was compared to the internal integrated camera as a comparison.

Integrated Windows laptop camera

A sample screenshot  was taken using the Windows laptop integrated camera, Note the  picture was distorted and unclear during an MS Teams call test.

Anker  PowerConf C200 Webcam

The same screenshot on the laptop was taken with the Anker webcam, during an MS Teams call test.

 Note the letters are clear and easy to read using the Anker  PowerConf C200 Webcam

Both the integrated camera and the Anker  PowerConf C200 Webcam have been placed the same distance from the picture. The default setting was used for the Anker  PowerConf C200 Webcam which could have been improved further by the additional options within the software.

Warranty 1-year warranty

Conclusion

The Anker  PowerConf C200 Webcam connects easily and works well with its supplied USB C cable. This is a compact device that folds away neatly,  care would have to be taken to ensure damage to the lens when being transported,  as no carry case has been supplied,  the additional software allows traditional features in terms of zoom, rotation changing the hd resolution which may be required if hot spotting and using low-quality broadband. The FOV (field of view) from 65 degrees to 95 degrees allows for multiple people to be on a call and compensation adjusts accordingly to the surroundings

The audio experience when close to the unit works well but lacks the quality when at the distance from the webcam. At techbuzz, we have tried on a few systems in terms  of MS Teams & Google Meet but the documentation does appear as approved for either

The Anker PowerConf C200 webcam has several key features. It has a 2K or 1440p resolution, which brings a good quality picture, It comes with a USB-C to USB-A cable, and a user manual, and can be easily clipped to the top of your desktop monitor.

The webcam is plug-and-play and ready to use right out of the box, but you can tweak the video/audio settings from Anker’s dedicated desktop app which improved the quality of the experience from the above screenshots,

The kit while has many positives & flexible options including, an adjustable FOV 65-95 degree, privacy shutter, and tripod mount, but does not come with a carry case which has the potential of scratching the lens during transport. The Setup is easy and adjustable for different situations or environments.

Overall, the Anker PowerConf C200 webcam is a great option for those looking for a portable budget-friendly and high-quality webcam with several useful features. Another great product from the Anker Family.

Buy

Video Review

 

More than four in five workers would not be comfortable with webcam monitoring – one in two say it’s a “huge invasion of privacy”

Almost four in ten (39pc) workers would choose a higher-paid job over a job which allowed them to work from home, while more than one in three (35pc) would choose the job that allowed them to work from home. Furthermore, remote working is more important to female workers in Ireland than their male counterparts.

These are some of the findings of a nationwide survey commissioned by employee benefit and pension specialists Lockton Ireland.

The survey, which polled more than 700 workers in Ireland’s labourforce, found that most people (69pc) believe that workers should be entitled to work from home – if their duties can be performed remotely. Less than one in three (31pc) believe it should be up to an employer to decide whether or not an employee can work from home. Women in particular believe workers should have the right to work from home, with more than three in four (76pc) stating this – compared to just over six in ten (63pc) men.

Three in four survey respondents (74pc) said they would not be comfortable turning on their webcam while working from home if requested by their employer to do so – with almost half saying they would refuse to turn such a device on as they would consider it a ‘huge invasion of privacy’.

The Privacy Issue

Commenting on the findings, Ray McKenna, partner with Lockton Ireland, said:

“Our research shows just how important working-from-home (WFH) has become to so many people – and within such a short timeframe too. The WFH trend was the biggest change to hit the world of work in decades, perhaps centuries. It has completely transformed how people work. It allows people to organise their work around their life and work when they’re at their most productive. This in turn should allow people to work alongside the challenges which life throws their way, to work for longer, and to pursue multiple careers if they wish. It will also open up opportunities for people who may have struggled to participate in the workforce before.”

“Despite the strong support for the WFH option, less than one in seven (16pc) people would be prepared to turn on a webcam at the request of their employer – even if failure to do so would prevent them from being able to work from home. It shows just how uncomfortable the thought makes Irish workers. Any employer considering going down this path should be very careful. The issue of webcams has proved to be a contentious one of late – last October, a Dutch court awarded a man €75,000 in compensation after his American employers insisted he kept his webcam turned on throughout the working day.”

Women and Working From Home

The Lockton survey also found that men were more likely to choose a higher-paid office-based job than a lower-paid WFH job – with 44pc of men saying they would opt for the job that paid the higher salary. Just over one in three women (35pc) said they would choose the higher-paid job.

“Almost four in ten female respondents said they would choose workplace flexibility over a higher salary. This is a clear indication of just how instrumental that option could be when it comes to keeping women in the workplace,” said McKenna. “More needs to be done to encourage and facilitate female participation in the labour force. Currently about 60pc of females are in the workplace – compared to 71pc of males.The barriers for female participation in the workplace are well documented. The cost of early childhood education and childcare in Ireland is one of the highest in the EU.

“Traditionally, much of the responsibility for childcare in this country has fallen on women – and while men are playing a more active role today than previous generations did, women still take on much of the childcare. It’s no surprise then that many women take a step back in their careers when they have children and that options such as part-time work are often pursued by females.

Lockton referred to a recent report by the European Commission which found that the number of women participating in the labour force in Ireland has reached a record high due to a shift to remote working during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr. McKenna advised,

“To ensure women have equal opportunities in the workplace, it is crucial that employers at least consider the WFH option for all employees, where those jobs can be completed from home. This would also give more men the opportunity to work from home too, should they wish to – which will also help level the gender playing field around childcare and work opportunities”.

Other highlights from the Lockton Ireland’s Workers survey include:

  • More women than men would have no problem with a request to turn on a webcam (30pc versus 21pc) – with those aged 55 and older the more likely age cohort to have no problem with this term of employment (47pc versus 20pc of those aged between 35 and 44).
  • 44pc of people aged 25-34 would opt for the higher salary if they had a choice between a job with a higher salary and a lower-paid WFH job. This compares to 22pc of those in the 35-44 age bracket – perhaps a suggestion that people of this age have young families, so their priorities have changed in terms of what they need from their job, making them more likely to choose the WFH option.

 

New XPS 13 2-in-1, XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition and Pro Webcam announced from Dell

Dell Technologies has announced the arrival and availability of the XPS 13 2-in-1, XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition with Ubuntu 22.04, and Dell Pro Webcam (WB5023), a best-in-class together image quality webcam with intelligent features for everyday professionals who want to look their best on video calls, broadcasts or live streams without breaking the bank.

New XPS 12 2-in-1 & XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition

For customers who prioritize versatility like students and entrepreneurs, the XPS 13 2-in-1 empowers users to seamlessly transition between work, school, entertainment and much more. Complete the experience with an optional XPS Folio and XPS Stylus — transition freely and fluidly from consumption to full productivity mode by attaching the magnetic XPS Folio and enjoy a natural writing and inking experience with the XPS Stylus.  Available in Sky with Wi-Fi 6e at launch.

The first OEM PC to be certified for Ubuntu 22.04, Dell’s flagship XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition is available pre-installed with Ubuntu 22.04 LTS. The Ubuntu certification program ensures that all of the components in a certified computer work as expected, so the user can be sure of the best experience out of the box. Certified devices also include specific software or drivers that differ from the default distribution where required. These are defined in a meta-package that automatically installs the optimal configuration of packages, drivers and kernel to deliver the best experience on that device. For a full breakdown of the new features of Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, read the release notes and official announcement.

Dell Pro Webcam

Dell continues to expand its portfolio of personal collaboration devices to cater for the varying needs of hybrid work. On the heels of the flagship 4K Dell UltraSharp Webcam launch, the company is adding Dell Pro Webcam (recent examples include the Dell Speakerphone and Dell Slim Conferencing Soundbar). This professional-grade 2K QHD webcam provides the world’s best image quality in its class offering superior image quality over a FHD (1080p) webcam and delivering clear, professional quality in any lighting condition.

The Sony STARVIS™ sensor and multi-element lens take in substantial light to deliver crystal-clear picture clarity. The combination of Digital Overlap HDR and Facial Detection Auto Exposure optimizes images, helping users to always look good.

Advanced Image Signal Processing and 3D/2D noise reduction automatically eliminates grainy images, making sure to look your best – even in low light. The webcam’s intelligent AI Auto Framing feature ensures users are always centred in the frame.

This sleek-looking cylindrical webcam also features a built-in noise reduction mic for clear communication, a magnetic shutter cap for privacy and a built-in mounting clip for easy attachment to a monitor, notebook or affix to a tripod.  Compatible with Windows and Mac Operating Systems, this webcam works well with all leading UC platforms and is certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Lastly, make the most out of the webcam with the Dell Peripheral Manager where users can customize the webcam settings such as Field of View, brightness, sharpness, contrast and saturation based on their preferences.

Pricing & availability

  • XPS 13 2-in-1 w/ Folio: Available in Ireland in September, with pricing to be announced upon release.
  • XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition: Available in Ireland in the coming weeks, with pricing to be announced upon release.
  • Dell Pro Webcam (WB50523): Available in Ireland now starting at €107.99 ex.VAT

 

Creative steals the scene with the launch of Live! Cam Sync V3

Creative Technology has launched Creative Live! Cam Sync V3, its latest UVC-compliant digital webcam with stand-out features of 2K QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution quality and 4X digital zoom in a plug-and-play package – a choice solution for video calls at work or simply catching up with loved ones.

 

  

Creative Live! Cam Sync V3 puts users under that star spotlight.

 

Creative Live! Cam Sync V3 is everything one wants in a webcam – and more. Users do not just enjoy crystal-clear visuals with the 2K QHD resolution quality; with 4X digital zoom, they get the flexibility to adjust their frame for both intimate heart-heart chats, or boisterous group catch-ups. Additionally, the webcam is fully adjustable with 360 o horizontal rotation and 30° tilt with the lens offering up to 95o field of vision. Advanced settings like brightness/contrast, white balance and backlight compensation can also be fine-tuned with the Creative app (available on PC). Everything and everyone can be projected in visual harmony while remaining in clear focus. An integrated lens cap protects for privacy easily when needed with the bonus of keeping dust away. A compact universal tripod mounting plate means it will fit any laptops, desktop monitors or even tripods.

This webcam has the audio competence to match its visual prowess too – dual built-in omnidirectional microphones pick up speech clearly and accurately. With the Creative app, users can access SmartComms Kit to enhance their audio further – NoiseClean-out reduces background noise effectively from the user so unwanted distractions like airplane and vacuum cleaner noises are eliminated; VoiceDetect automatically mutes and unmutes the microphone for the user’s convenience. Creative Live! Cam Sync V3 is quite simply the ideal webcam for looking good and sounding great on every occasion.

Pricing and Availability

Creative Live! Cam Sync V3 is aggressively priced at £64.99 and is available at the Creative online store.

For more information on Creative Live! Cam Sync V3, visit creative.com/LiveCamV3.

Tech Review – Ausdom AW651 streaming Webcam

Webcams are back on the agenda again and with the likes of zoom and teams exploding during the pandemic most of us who worked in an office or worked from home would be using one now, the typical webcam on your laptop or PC today is rubbish being honest and after testing several webcams over the last few months it is easy to see why people now invest in such gadgets and they are not that expensive either and for many an important tool when conducting meetings and interviews and so on.

This webcam is a simple plug and play with no real technical knowledge required even to adjust the settings once installed it will fit onto any pc or laptop with a USB port and having tested on both my chromebook and laptop the results are quite remarkable as you will see even in the set up process in the full video review below.

The webcam comes with a tripod too so you can place it where you like which is a nice bonus, there is also a lens cover you can adjust the camera to turn the head and zoom in, you have 2K HD and a Wide-angle lens that allows for Two field-of-view options selectable, allowing you to adjust the field of view between 90° and 60°

The webcam has a dual mic built in too and noise cancelling which I noted worked well in comparison to other models here I have tested which is quite a few now.

Ausdom AW651

Features

1. HDR
2. 1080P/60FPS; 2k/30FPS
3. Angle of view change with HDR on/off.
4. Built in privacy cover
5. autofocus
6. tripod included
BUY