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Camera Expert insta360 has introduced a new iPhone holder for photographers and videographers that combines two products: a mobile gimbal and a DockKit-compatible stand. It allows you to use both iOS-integrated functions and in-house Insta360 subject tracking. The hardware, called the Flow Pro, is also slightly cheaper than Belkin’s pure DockKit solution, the Auto-Tracking Stand Pro.
360 degree plus three-axis gimbal
Dockit is a Apple APIswhich allows apps to control compatible iPhone stands. It can be used to record panoramas, training videos or time-lapse recordings. Tracking is supported by Apple’s in-house Camera app as well as various third-party apps. At the same time, the Flow Pro can also use Insta360’s own AI-backed tracking algorithm, called Deep Track 3.0. The iPhone should be able to be used with 360-degree and three-axis stabilization, made possible by the integrated gimbal.
There is also a selfie stick built in. The integrated 2900 mAh battery should last about ten hours and the charging time is two hours. The battery can also be used as a power bank. The holder is connected to the iPhone via Bluetooth 5.0 and activated – like other DockKit devices – via NFC. The gimbal has four standard modes: Auto, Follow, Pan Follow and FPV (First Person View). With the latter it should be possible to generate drone-like images.
Animal tracking, various accessories
An integrated accessory shoe allows you to attach a microphone. To set it up, the Flow Pro can be opened and then works as a DockKit device. 360-degree recording takes place horizontally. “No restrictions, no obstructions and total freedom in how you move through space,” writes Insta360. Thanks to mechanical stabilization, recordings should be significantly more blur-free than with the iPhone alone. AI tracking now also supports dogs, cats and horses.
Insta360 Flow Pro: Both modes.
(Image: Insta360)
The Flow Pro from Insta360 costs 159 euros. The scope of delivery includes a magnetic smartphone clamp, USB-C charging cable, cover for the handle and a protective bag. Additional accessories will be delivered later, including a spotlight and a second bracket. The gimbal weighs 366 grams, the clamp alone weighs 32 grams. For comparison: Belkin wants 180 euros (recommended retail price) for the Auto-Tracking Stand Pro.
(B.Sc.)
