Good news for owners of the Ricoh GXR digital camera! Ricoh have just announced the RICOH LENS A16 lens for the GXR – it has a versatile range of 24-85mm which means that you can take sweeping landscape shots as well as zoom in close for portrait shots. The addition of the RICOH LENS A16 now means there are 6 lenses available for the Ricoh GXR.

If you’re still considering buying the Ricoh GXR digital camera, I would recommend buying it WITH the RICOH LENS A16 for AUD $999 because if you buy the lens on its own it’s a hefty AUD$799!

RICOH LENS A16 Press Release Australia

Ricoh has announced the release of the RICOH LENS A16 24-85mm F3.5-5.5, a new camera unit exclusively for the GXR interchangeable camera system.

Featuring a newly developed 24-85mm 3.5x optical wide angle zoom lens, a 16 megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor and Ricoh’s Smooth Imaging Engine IV, the RICOH LENS A16 provides high image quality, greater power of expression and increased flexibility in shooting.

Ensuring photographers can capture a diverse range of scenes – from landscape photos to snapshots and portraits – the new unit produces clear, sharp results from wide-angle to medium telephoto. Equipped with the 16 megapixel APS-C sensor, the unit delivers vividly detailed images from edge to edge.

RICOH LENS A16 also features a new Dynamic Range Compensation function, which reduces overexposure of highlights and underexposure of dark areas. This makes it possible to achieve images which match those seen by the naked eye when shooting subjects in backlit and high-contrast scenes which could not otherwise be handled with exposure compensation.

The GXR’s superior operability and portability has been further enhanced with the RICOH LENS A16’s new electronic level indicator, which now detects both horizontal and front-back tilting. A convenient ‘keep shooting conditions’ mode also debuts, allowing the photographer to continue shooting with the same settings such as focus, aperture, shutter speed, ISO and white balance.

RICOH LENS A16 also introduces some new shooting functions and scene modes, improving the power of expression in photography which has become the hallmark of the GXR series. New modes include Cross Process, High Contrast Black and White, Bulb shooting and ISO sensitivity setting interval.

About the Ricoh GXR
Introduced in December 2009, the GXR is a revolutionary interchangeable unit camera system in which lenses can be changed by mounting camera units that integrate lens, image sensor, and image processing engine into a single unit.

In addition to the RICOH LENS A16, five interchangeable camera units are currently available for the GXR system:
1.        GR LENS A12 50mm F2.5 MACRO
2.        RICOH LENS S10 24-72mm F2.5-4.4 VC
3.        RICOH LENS P10 28-300 mm F3.5-5.6 VC
4.        GR LENS A12 28mm F2.5
5.        GXR MOUNT A12 (M Mount)

Availability and pricing
The RICOH LENS A16 will be available in Australia from selected camera specialists from late March 2012.

GXR + RICOH LENS A16 – RRP AU$999
RICOH LENS A16 (unit only) – RRP AU$799

For customer enquiries contact Ricoh’s Australian distributor, CR Kennedy on 03 9823 1555 or visit www.ricohcameras.com.au

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Main features of RICOH LENS A16 24-85mm F3.5-5.5

1. Newly developed 24-85 mm wide-angle zoom lens with an APS-C size CMOS sensor with approximately 16.20 million pixels
·        This newly developed lens features a 9-group, 11-element configuration. The utilisation of three double-sided aspherical lenses as well as high-refraction lenses effectively reduces various types of distortion across the entire zoom range. The result is high resolution and imaging power from edge to edge.
·        The configuration of nine rounded aperture blades enables both highly precise aperture settings and beautiful bokeh.
·        This camera unit features a 23.6 mm x 15.7 mm (APS-C size) 16M CMOS sensor. In combination with the image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine IV, this image sensor makes it possible to shoot high-quality images with smooth tonal gradations as well as low noise and high-resolution.

2. Diverse shooting functions and high operability
·        Dynamic range compensation reduces overexposure of highlights and underexposure of dark areas. For backlit and high-contrast scenes that cannot be handled with exposure compensation, doing the dynamic range compensation in specific portions of the image makes it possible to shoot the subject at a brightness level close to that seen by the naked eye.
·        ISO sensitivity can be set in 1EV or 1/3EV steps.
·        With the new ISO bracketing function, the photographer can shoot and record three images with different ISO sensitivities.
·        When the new function for maintaining the same shooting settings is set on, by keeping the shutter release button pressed halfway after taking a picture, the photographer can continue to shoot with the same settings (focus, exposure, white balance, etc.).
·        The function for recording a JPEG image simultaneously with the RAW image has been expanded so that it is now possible to record only the RAW image. This is suitable for a work flow based on the premise that image finishing is to be done on a PC after shooting. Since a JPEG file is not simultaneously recorded, this option is also useful when the photographer wants to increase the number of images which can be recorded on the memory card.
·        It is now possible to turn ON/OFF the white saturation display that shows areas where bright portions will be rendered white and where colour shade gradations will be lost.
·        The tilt indicator function has been enhanced. In addition to the conventional horizontal indicator, this function can now also detect camera movement direction tilting.
·        Copyright information such as the photographer’s name can be entered and written to the image Exif data. The recorded information can be checked on the playback screen detailed information display.

3. Highly precise focusing possible
·        For the AF area size for spot AF, either normal or pinpoint can be selected.
·        A focus-assist function has been included in an effort to raise the accuracy of manual focusing. The photographer can select from two modes and check the focus by strengthening outlines and contrast.
·        The shooting screen can be magnified for convenience in focusing. The magnified area can be displayed in the centre or across the entire screen. In addition, the image quality for 4x and 8x magnification has been further enhanced. The area to be magnified can be moved using the direction pad.

4. The power of expression that is a hallmark of the GXR series
·        Picture settings for image quality and colour can be customised with nine levels for easy creation of a diverse range of images.
·        My Settings enables the settings for a wide range of shooting functions to be recorded in advance and specified in an instant when needed. For the setting storage, now six patterns can be stored in the body’s My Settings Box and six patterns can be stored in the SD card. This expands the world of photo expression by enabling GXR users to exchange their shooting settings.
·        B (bulb) and T (time) can now be selected as the shutter speed in manual exposure mode. With “B,” the exposure continues while the shutter release button is pressed, and with “T,” the shutter release button is pressed to start and end the exposure. For both, the exposure is forcibly ended when 180 seconds have elapsed.
·        New scene mode options have been added for the easy enjoyment of a wide range of photo expression. The five new options are soft focus, cross process, toy camera, miniaturise, and high contrast B&W. The photographer can create a unique image by just pressing the shutter release button.
·        An image flag function has been added to enable the quick display of specific images from among those in the camera. Up to 20 images can be flagged.
·        It is possible to shoot 1280 x 720 pixel HD movies.
* Note: When shooting movies of 1280 x 720 size, the use of an SD/SDHC memory card with an SD speed class of Class 6 or higher is recommended.

5. New options added
·        A newly designed lens hood (LH-2) especially for this camera unit.
·        A lens cap (LC-3) that opens and closes simultaneously with the movement of the lens. It does not need to be removed when shooting.
·        A wrapping sheet (WS-1) that can wrap the GXR when the camera unit, external viewfinder, and other options are attached.

* All of the focal lengths in this release are converted to the equivalent values for a 35 mm film camera.

Looking for a stylish and lightweight case to compliment your iPhone 4 / 4S? Aranez.com have just released their latest case for the iPhone which is a white version of the very popular Aranez Mirage iPhone 4S Leather Case.

This amazing case too, is made from premium grade genuine kangaroo leather which means that it is both tough and light. The amount of initial customer feedback we have received about the white version of the Aranez Mirage iPhone 4S Leather Case has been very encouraging. We’ve found that the majority of buyers have white iPhones to match. Another aspect of the luxurious leather case that customers love is the fact that once on, it’s almost invisible especially with the transparent polycarbonate shell protecting the sides of the device.

Features of the Aranez Mirage iPhone 4S Leather Case

• Crafted from premium high performance kangaroo leather
• Slimline stylish design
• Access to all buttons and charge ports
• Guarantee of Quality with each case
• Holds the iPhone 4S very securely
• Protects the iPhone 4S from daily bumps and scratches
• Genuine Aranez premium case

http://www.aranez.com | Aranez Mirage iPhone 4S Leather Case White Post | Youtube Video

Video of the Aranez Mirage iPhone 4S Leather Case (Vimeo)

Get yours at Aranez! -> Aranez Mirage iPhone 4S Leather Case (White)

N.B. – Aranez ships internationally.

Still deciding whether or not the HTC Velocity 4G is for you? Well to help you out with your decision making, we’ve attached a insightful video by YouTube user SuperMario0011 that takes you through the basic functions of the newly launched HTC Velocity 4G, especially showing off how fast this device is!

As a recap to our HTC Velocity 4G post that we published only a few days ago, here’s what comes on board the first 4G smartphone in Australia and Hong Kong:

HTC Velocity 4G Specifications

• 1.5Ghz dual core processor
• Size: 128.8mm x 67mm x 11.27mm 5.07″ x 2.64″ x 0.44″
• Weight: 163.8 grams
• 4.5″ Display qHD 540 x 960 resolution
• 16GB data storage on board
• 1GB RAM
• MicroSD expansion slot
• 8 Megapixel dual LED flash, F2.2, 28mm wide-angle lens, BSI Sensor
• 1.3 Megapixel front-facing camera
• Internet: WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, EDGE, GPRS, 3G, 4G
• Network: HSPA/WCDMA Asia: 850/2100Mhz, Quadband GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, LTE 1800MHz
• USB & WiFi tethering
• OS: Android with HTC Sense
• Battery: Lithium Ion Battery 1620mAh

Video Review of HTC Velocity 4G (Telstra)

So what do you think? Tempted to get a HTC Velocity 4G even more now?

I’ve owned an electric / hybrid vehicle before (Honda Civic Hybrid 2009) and after reading the specs for the new Telsa Model S 2012, I can’t help but be surprised at how far electric car technology has come especially in terms of performance and styling. When you look at the photo of the Tesla Model S 2012 above, I’m sure I’m not the only one to have mistaken this for a Jaguar or Aston Martin in the first 1-3 seconds. Whether electric-powered or not, it’s an incredibly good-looking vehicle.

Starting at $49,990, you can own your very own Tesla Model S 2012 (baseline model and $5,000 reservation). Just look at it – now why would you pay anything similar for a Toyota Prius or Honda Civic Hybrid?

Here are some of the features of the Tesla Model S 2012:

• 5.6 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour
• Top speed of 125 miles per hour
• Zero tailpipe emissions
• Power steering
• Active air suspension
• Range of up to 300 miles on 85kWh battery
• Plug and charge anywhere (240 volt outlet)
• Streamlined styling
• Programmable smart key that stores all driver preferences
• Retractable door handles
• Interior comes standard with premium leather
• 17″ touchscreen display
• Made from recycled materials

Video of Tesla Model S 2012:

2012: The Year of Model S from Tesla Motors on Vimeo.

Just opened up iBooks and downloaded the “Life On Earth” textbook to show to my girls in the next couple of minutes. It’s featured in the video below and looks amazing. Also…it’s FREE!

Video by Apple “The textbook. Reinvented for iPad”

Look above to see what just popped into my mailbox from Hong Kong’s premium telecommunications provider, CSL 1010! The HTC Velocity 4G will be Hong Kong’s first 4G LTE phone. Australia’s Telstra, is also using the HTC Velocity 4G to herald the launch of their 4G LTE mobile phone network. From face value, the HTC Velocity 4G looks like an updated version of the HTC HD2!

I’ve been using the CSL 1010 4G LTE USB Modem for around 6 months now, so it’s nice to see a smartphone also finally making its debut on the network. I’ve yet to visit another country where mobile data speeds are as fast as this, nor where data plans are so good value for money.

What better way to further expand the CSL 1010 4G LTE network than by letting loose a device like the HTC Velocity 4G on it. There are very good reasons why both HTC and CSL 1010 decided to unleash the HTC Velocity 4G first – check out the specifications and features below:

HTC Velocity 4G Specifications

• 1.5Ghz dual core processor
• Size: 128.8mm x 67mm x 11.27mm 5.07″ x 2.64″ x 0.44″
• Weight: 163.8 grams
• 4.5″ Display qHD 540 x 960 resolution
• 16GB data storage on board
• 1GB RAM
• MicroSD expansion slot
• 8 Megapixel dual LED flash, F2.2, 28mm wide-angle lens, BSI Sensor
• 1.3 Megapixel front-facing camera
• Internet: WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, EDGE, GPRS, 3G, 4G
• Network: HSPA/WCDMA Asia: 850/2100Mhz, Quadband GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, LTE 1800MHz
• USB & WiFi tethering
• OS: Android with HTC Sense
• Battery: Lithium Ion Battery 1620mAh

I’ve highlighted the points that really stand out for me. I’m particularly keen to play with the new camera on board the HTC Velocity 4G – 8 Megapixels dual LED flash with a f2.2, 28mm wide-angle lens means that it should be one of the best smartphone cameras performing in low-light conditions as well as take very decent landscape shots. Again, too bad, still at this point in time, there is no @instagram for Android!

From the specs above alone, I’d gladly swap-up my Samsung Galaxy Nexus, especially for the camera and faster data network.

Excited to see CSL 1010 4G LTE mobile network gaining momentum. Here’s hoping that the iPhone 5 will have 4G LTE capability!

What do you think of the HTC Velocity 4G? Your next Android?

Here’s a little bit about Australia Day from Wikipedia:

Australia Day (previously known as Anniversary Day, Foundation Day, and ANA Day)^[1] is the official national day of Australia. Celebrated annually on 26 January, the date commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788 and the proclamation at that time of British sovereignty over the eastern seaboard of New Holland.^[2]

Although it was not known as Australia Day until over a century later, records of celebrations on 26 January date back to 1808, with the first official celebration of the formation of New South Wales held in 1818. It is presently an official public holiday in every state and territory of Australia and is marked by the presentation of the Australian of the Year Awards on Australia Day Eve, announcement of the Honours List for the Order of Australia and addresses from the Governor-General and Prime Minister. With community festivals, concerts and citizenship ceremonies the day is celebrated in large and small communities and cities around the nation. Australia Day has become the biggest annual civic event in Australia.^[3]

The date is controversial to some Australians, particularly those of Indigenous heritage, leading to the use of alternate names, such as Invasion Day and Survival Day. Proposals have been made to change the date of Australia Day, but these have failed to gain widespread public support.

On ya Cobbas!

Shout out to my peeps from the Western Suburbs in Melbourne, Victoria.

What kind of gadget site would this be without a blog post on the upcoming iPad 3? To make it easy for our readers, we thought we’d scour the web for all the latest rumors and put them all here for one quick easy reference. As mentioned this is a list of rumors – with Apple being Apple, the cat doesn’t really get let out of the bag until announcement day or when they “accidentally” leave test iPhones in bars where news-hungry tech bloggers happen to congregate…

Seriously, I’m keeping an eye on the iPad 3 for personal reasons. The powers that be (aka my two daughters) have taken ownership of both my iPad 1 and iPad 2. Therefore, technically they shouldn’t have a need for another iPad and this one is MINE! That’s also based on the assumption that my wife will continue to enjoy her Kindle Fire for eBook reading…

Enough chatter, here’s a summary of nine of the hottest and possibly most realistic Apple iPad 3 rumors doing the rounds on the web at the moment:

iPad 3 Rumors

  1. LTE Capability: this high-speed data network capability (up to 300Mbps download) will of course be only useful in countries that have LTE infrastructure ready to go. Interestingly enough, it will mean that the iPad will get LTE before the iPhone.
  2. Retina Display: imagine the iPad having double the screen resolution that it has today? Watching videos and viewing images should be even more a joy
  3. Enhanced battery: there’s been word on the street that Apple will be using battery technology that provides an additional 20-30% of use time
  4. Thicker shape: the negative side to the improved battery is that more room will be required to accommodate it, resulting in a overall thicker design
  5. Improved Camera: I don’t know how Apple got away with only a 0.7 megapixel on the iPad 2. If the next version gets one anything close to the iPhone 4S camera many people will be rejoicing especially those crazy @instagram fans like moi.
  6. Siri / iPad Debut: what would be even better than just having Siri on the iPad is having Siri Version 2!
  7. Steve Job’s Birthday Announcement Date: The late founder and CEO’s birthday is on the 24th of February. Last year’s announcement of the iPad 2 was on March the 1st. Why not commemorate the great man with an announcement a week earlier – makes sense
  8. March Release: given the possible February 24th announcement, a March release has been predicted
  9. A6 Quadcore Processor: I don’t see any problems with the current A5 dual core processor in the iPad 2, but an A6 quadcore would be another leap frog move for Apple

Even if half of the list above comes true, it will make the Apple iPad 3 another great tablet.

Sources of iPad 3 Rumors:

If you want to keep up with the latest iPad 3 rumors I also recommend that you add the following sites to your RSS feed:

• Gizmodo
• Engadget
• BGR
• CNet

Please leave a comment below if you hear of more rumors and let us know if you’re also considering getting an iPad 3 when it finally comes out!

Here are the specs for the Motorola RAZR to refresh your memory of what this device is made of:

Features of the Motorola RAZR

• Dual-core 1.2GHz
• 4.3 inch Super AMOLED Advanced display
• 1GB RAM
• Android 2.3.5
• 8MP rear facing / 2MP front facing camera
• 16GB storage on board
• 127grams weight
• Dimensions: 130.7 x 68.9 x 7.1 mm
• Data networks: 850/900/1900/2100MHz
• Wifi: 802.11 b/g/n
• Bluetooth 4.0
• 1780mAh

Video of the Motorola RAZR

So after watching the Motorola RAZR video review above, has it helped with your decision to buy it or not? Let us know in the comments below!

Useful links: Mr.Gadget Motorola RAZR Screen Protector | Motorola RAZR Cases

It doesn’t take long for one living in Hong Kong to become immersed in Chinese culture and their calendar. Today is bigger than Christmas and the western calendar’s January 1st countdown – it is the start of the Chinese Lunar Year. According to the Chinese zodiac, this year is particularly special year – the Year of the Dragon.

I don’t believe in your destiny being attribute to the year you were born in, but I do find it interesting to read what the Chinese believe the personality types for people born in Dragon years:

Dragon Personality

Occupying the 5th position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Dragons symbolize such character traits as dominance and ambition. Dragons prefer to live by their own rules and if left on their own, are usually successful. They’re driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. They’re passionate in all they do and they do things in grand fashion. Unfortunately, this passion and enthusiasm can leave Dragons feeling exhausted and interestingly, unfulfilled.

While Dragons frequently help others, rarely will they ask for help. Others are attracted to Dragons, especially their colorful personalities, but deep down, Dragons prefer to be alone. Perhaps that is because they’re most successful when working alone. Their preference to be alone can come across as arrogance or conceitedness, but these qualities aren’t applicable. Dragons have tempers that can flare fast!

All around the world the Chinese are celebrating this heralding of the Dragon Year. If you speak to the locals, you’ll know that this year is one where there are many planned births to take advantage of the fortuitous year.

For all our Chinese readers out there, we wish you much success in this new Dragon Year!