Tech Next: Mirrorless camera and ultra-light earbuds hit the market

These cameras arrive hot on their heels of their global launch and join other full-frame mirrorless cameras in the fray such as Sony’s Alpha series and competing products from the likes of Canon. The LUMIX S series promises multiple benefits for pros and occasional photographers alike.

It aims for unprecedented image quality bringing high resolution mode for the first time in mirrorless full-frame and industry-leading video recording performance (4K 60p/50p). Other pluses include advanced image stabilisation, rich gradation and superior colour reproduction. This duo of cams are based on the L-mount standard, an alliance that brings together Leica, Sigma and Panasonic. Panasonic plans to add 42 lenses for the L-mount series over the next couple of years. At the launch we checked out the three new lenses that debuted along with the cameras — Lumix S Pro 50mm f/1.4, Lumix S Pro 70-200 mm f/4.0 OIS and Lumix S 24-105 mm f/4.0 Macro OIS.

During our time with the device we noticed how the body offers more direct access control with a whole bunch of buttons and dials. Photographers will also love the ease of customising controls. The cameras boast of a rugged design with robust construction and a sealing for every joint, button and dial. The duo is splash resistant and dust resistant and can function even in temperatures as low as -10 degrees centigrade. We were blown away by the results. The LUMIX S raises the bar for full-frame mirrorless cameras, the S1 costs Rs 1,99,900 while the S1R is priced at Rs 2,99,990.

Size doesn’t matter. Blaupunkt might be best known for car audio solutions in India but the brand has launched a whole set of cool Bluetooth accessories including the BTW-01, it’s ultra-light ear buds. The first thing you will notice is just how weightless they are — just 5.5 gms each, you barely feel them sitting in your ears. The BTW-01 is designed with a 45-degree angle and won’t fall off even during intense workouts. You can control these headphones with tap control that allow you play and pause music and answer calls; all it takes is three taps to activate Siri or Google Assistant.

The other surprise is the sound. They have a speaker size of 6mm and are kitted with the latest Bluetooth 5.0 for superior battery efficiency. A Realtek chipset is at the heart of the BTW-01 and ensures impressive HD Surround Sound. This chipset also delivers real sound separation with no compromise on a solid bass, treble or mid ranges. These earbuds punch above their weight in the sound quality department. The Blaupunkt BTW01 comes in a charging case that allows you to power the headphones at least thrice with 6-hours of music playback for each charge.

These water-resistant buds (IPX-5 certified) are super comfortable to wear and don’t fall off even during intense workouts. (Rs 7,999)