Geekazine

Jeffrey Powers

Technology Product reviews, interviews, industry news

  1. 3d ago ·  Video

    Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K Unboxing & Full Review

    Make a Logo on Fiverr Cloner Alliance Steps Up the UHD Pro 4K The Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K is a standalone video capture and recording box built for creators, gamers, and anyone who needs a simple way to record HDMI video without turning the setup into a complicated production rig. After looking at the previous Cloner Alliance Pro 4K model, this newer UHD Pro 4K brings some useful upgrades, including USB-C, microSD support, USB 3.0, and more flexible recording options. This is designed for pro video workflows, game capture, screenshots, camera recording, and even scheduled recording. It can capture in 4K, supports HDMI pass-through, and records to external storage including flash drives, microSD cards, and larger hard drives. What’s in the Box? Inside the box, Cloner Alliance keeps things straightforward. You get the UHD Pro 4K unit, instruction materials, a remote control, HDMI cable, power adapter, and a USB-C to USB-A cable. A Welcome USB-C Upgrade One of the first noticeable changes is the move from micro USB to USB-C. That makes the UHD Pro 4K feel more modern and more useful in current creator setups. The device also includes USB 3.0 support, which matters when you are recording larger video files at higher bitrates. Ports and Controls On the top of the unit, you get physical controls for pause, snapshot, record, and stop. There are also audio inputs, including mic, aux, and line-in options. On the side, the unit includes microSD/TF card support, USB-C, and USB-A connectivity. On the back, you get the power button, 12V power input, HDMI input, and HDMI output for pass-through monitoring. Recording Options for Video Capture The Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K can record in MP4 or TS file formats. Resolution options include 4K, 1080p, or auto mode. For many users, auto mode will probably be the easiest choice, but having manual resolution control is useful when you need to lock the output to a specific format. H.264 and H.265 Recording The UHD Pro 4K supports both H.264 AVC and H.265 HEVC recording. That gives users some flexibility depending on whether they want broader compatibility or more efficient compression. The video bitrate can go up to 50 Mbps, which is a nice option for higher-quality captures. Just remember that a higher bitrate also means larger files, and your storage device needs to be fast enough to keep up. Audio Settings Audio options include HDMI audio, mic input, and aux input. You can adjust mic volume, aux volume, and HDMI output volume. The audio bitrate can be set up to 320 Kbps for better sound quality. That said, this is not a multitrack audio recorder. If you combine audio sources into the unit, they are recorded together. For serious productions, it is still better to manage audio separately when possible. Storage: Flash Drive, microSD, or Hard Drive The UHD Pro 4K supports recording to multiple storage types. You can use microSD/TF cards, USB flash drives, and larger external hard drives. The device can also test writing speed, which is useful before recording at higher bitrates. File Size and Loop Recording Recording file size options include unlimited, 4GB, 16GB, or two-hour segments. This lets you decide how the device breaks up long recordings. There is also loop recording, which makes the UHD Pro 4K useful beyond gaming and creator content. You could use it with a camera for basic security-style recording, where older files are overwritten once storage fills up. HDMI Pass-Through and Latency One of the biggest questions with any video capture device is latency. The UHD Pro 4K includes HDMI pass-through so you can send video to a monitor while recording. Better Than the Previous Model Compared with the earlier Cloner Alliance Pro 4K, the latency on the UHD Pro 4K appears improved. The older model had more noticeable delay, while this new version feels closer to the 50 to 100 millisecond range during pass-through testing. That is still not zero latency. For casual gameplay, recording, screenshots, or camera capture, it may be fine. For competitive gaming, you may still want to put a splitter before the Cloner Alliance box and monitor directly from the source. On-Screen Menus and Remote Control The UHD Pro 4K includes a remote for navigating system settings, recording settings, audio settings, scheduling, playback, and storage options. Settings You Can Adjust The system menu includes time settings, time zone, HDMI output resolution, HDMI output scale, screensaver, language, factory reset, and firmware information. The recording menu lets you choose format, resolution, file size, codec, bitrate, audio bitrate, loop recording, and watermark options. Remote Control Experience The remote works without needing to be aimed perfectly at the unit, which is a plus. However, it can be a little touch-and-go at times, occasionally needing more than one button press. Scheduling and Standalone Recording A big advantage of the Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K is that it does not always need a computer to record. You can connect your source, attach storage, and record directly from the unit. Scheduled Recording The device also includes scheduled recording options. That could be useful for capturing a camera feed, recording a recurring video source, or setting up a simple unattended recording station. Using the UHD Pro 4K With a Computer The UHD Pro 4K can also connect to a PC using the Cloner Alliance helper software. Once connected, you can preview the video feed, record to the computer, schedule recordings, choose capture devices, and configure folders for video and photo storage. Live Video and Virtual Camera Use The software also includes options for live broadcasting and virtual camera use. That means you can bring the Cloner Alliance feed into apps such as OBS, vMix, or other streaming software. The computer preview does introduce more latency than the HDMI pass-through monitor, so it is best used for setup, checking framing, or recording control — not as your main real-time display. Video Screenshots and Pro Video Uses The UHD Pro 4K is not just for recording full videos. The snapshot button makes it useful for grabbing video screenshots, especially from gameplay, cameras, or HDMI-based devices. Good for Creators and Reviewers For content creators, this can be a useful box to keep nearby. It can capture from a camera, record a gameplay feed, document a device’s HDMI output, or act as a simple single-source recorder when you need something fast. Pros and Cons Pros The Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K is easy to set up, works as a standalone recorder, supports 4K capture, includes HDMI pass-through, offers USB-C and USB 3.0, supports higher bitrate recording, and works with the same Cloner Alliance software ecosystem. Cons There is still some latency, especially when using the computer preview. The remote can occasionally require extra button presses. Also, while the audio input options are useful, this is not a replacement for a dedicated multitrack audio workflow. Final Thoughts on the Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K The Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K is a solid upgrade over the previous model. The move to USB-C, the addition of microSD support, better storage flexibility, and improved latency make it a more capable video capture device for creators, gamers, and anyone working with HDMI video. It is easy to set up, flexible enough for standalone recording or computer-based capture, and useful for everything from pro video workflows to video screenshots. If you need a simple HDMI video capture and recording box that can work without a full computer setup, the UHD Pro 4K is worth a look. Check it out at https://geni.us/cauhdpro4k   Check out the Geekazine Merch, including "I AM AI " T-Shirt.  Thanks for reading! Don't forget to subscribe to Geekazine: RSS Feed - YouTube Twitter - Facebook Tip Me via Paypal.me Send a Tip via Venmo RSS Bandwidth by Cachefly Get a 14 Day Trial Be a Patreon: Part of the Sconnie Geek Nation! Reviews: Geekazine gets products in to review. Opinions are of Geekazine.com. Sponsored content will be labeled as such. Read all policies on the Geekazine review page.  Reviews: Geekazine is also an affiliate of Amazon Last Updated on June 10, 2026 1:49 pm by Jeffrey Powers The post Cloner Alliance UHD Pro 4K Unboxing & Full Review appeared first on Geekazine.

    19 min

  2. May 28 ·  Video

    My Facebook Was Phished. What META Did Next is Frustrating

    Make a Logo on Fiverr **Editor’s Note: After continual attempts, I finally got to a support agent that brought back my accounts within the next 24 hours. It’s possible to get it back. A Simple Mistake That Shut Down 19 Years of Facebook This is not an easy story to tell, but it is one a lot of people need to hear. My Facebook was phished. I made the mistake. I let the attacker in. And within seconds, the account I had built for nearly 19 years was gone. It started on May 4 while I was out of town and on my phone. A message pushed me toward Messenger, where I was prompted to log in and enter a two-factor authentication code. It was exactly the kind of thing I tell people not to do, but in that moment, I did it anyway. Almost immediately, Facebook sent an email saying my profile had been taken down. The message said my profile had been reviewed and could not be reviewed again. That was the start of a frustrating journey through Meta’s account recovery system. Facebook Hacked, Then Locked Out The first thing Meta told me to do was change my password, so I did. Once I got back to a computer I normally use for Facebook, I went to facebook.com/hacked and started the recovery process. Meta asked for facial recognition. That took a few tries, partly because of my beard, but it worked. Then it asked for identification, so I uploaded my passport. The system said it would take two to three days. Three weeks later, I still had no real answer. That is where this becomes more than a simple “facebook hacked” story. This was not just a personal profile. This account was tied to business pages, Facebook groups, Messenger conversations, Instagram, Threads, and years of relationships and memories. Instagram Taken Down Along With Facebook When my Facebook account was disabled, my Instagram went with it. That is especially frustrating because I had my Instagram account before the full Meta merge, and I always kept a separate username and password. But because Instagram was connected to Facebook, I could log in only far enough to be told that because my Facebook page was disabled, my Instagram was gone too. That means my Instagram posts, reels, conversations, and monetization access were gone. I had been making money from Reels. I had new content ready to post. But I could not publish to Instagram or Facebook, even while that same content could still go to TikTok, YouTube, and X. For creators and small businesses, this is a serious problem. Losing Facebook is bad enough. Having Instagram taken down with it can cut off another income stream and another way to communicate with an audience. Messenger Vanished, Too Messenger disappeared with the account. At the time, I had several active conversations going. Some were personal. Some were business-related. One was tied to a potential deal that is now just sitting there because I have no way to continue the conversation. That is one of the overlooked parts of a Facebook phished situation. People do not just lose posts. They lose access to the inbox where business, gigs, product review requests, community work, and personal conversations happen. For my music work, Facebook and Messenger are major ways people reach out about gigs. Losing that access at the start of summer means losing potential bookings during one of the most important times of the year. Meta’s Recovery System Feels Like a Wall Here is where things get even more frustrating: Meta’s support process appears to be almost entirely automated. Every path seems to send me back to facebook.com/hacked. The AI support system does not give a real case number, a clear timeline, or a human escalation path. I have gone through the hacked-account process, the facial verification, and the ID upload more than once. Still, no meaningful response. The most frustrating part is that the account was disabled almost instantly, but the recovery process has dragged on for weeks. Meta also sent a message saying I needed to download my data before June 5 and that my account would be closed on June 18. That is not 180 days, even though the disabled account screen referenced an appeal window. Trying to download the data has not worked reliably either. The system asks for login credentials, then says the account does not exist or loops back to the disabled account screen. This Is More Than a Social Media Problem Losing Facebook is not like losing a random app. For many people, Facebook is a digital home, a business hub, a photo archive, a message history, and a community network. I lost access to groups I managed. Some pages disappeared or became blocked behind account restrictions. My music page went down. My high school class Facebook group is now inaccessible. Geekazine is still visible, but I cannot post to it. There are also personal memories I may never get back. My dad passed away in 2021. My mom passed away last year. I cannot reconnect with those accounts. I cannot rebuild those old friend connections. Friends who have passed away are still part of that history, and losing the account means losing access to those pieces of my life. That is why this is so frustrating. A facebook hacked situation is not just about security. It is about identity, business, memories, and years of work. Two-Factor Authentication Helps, But It Is Not Foolproof I had two-factor authentication turned on. That matters, but it does not make you invincible. In this case, the attacker got in because I approved the login. I entered the code. I made the mistake. Two-factor authentication is still important, but it cannot protect you if you are tricked into handing over the keys yourself. The lesson is simple: slow down. If a message tells you to log in, verify it first. Do not enter a code just because a prompt asks for it. If something feels even slightly off, stop. Protect Your Pages Before This Happens If you manage Facebook pages or groups, make sure someone else you trust has admin access. That way, if your personal account is taken down, the page or group does not become completely stranded. This is especially important for creators, musicians, small businesses, nonprofits, and community groups. If your Facebook profile is the only admin, a hacked or disabled account can lock everyone out. Also make sure people have another way to contact you. Put your email address on your website. Keep your YouTube, TikTok, X, and other channels updated. Do not let one Meta account be the only bridge between you and your audience. The Bigger Problem With Meta Support The hardest part is not just that I was hacked. It is that there does not seem to be a reliable way to get help from Meta. I have heard stories from people who got their accounts back. I have also seen horror stories from people who lost 10, 15, or 20 years of photos, messages, and business connections. Some were Meta Verified. Some still could not get help quickly. That is the issue. A company this central to people’s lives and businesses needs a better second-tier support option when automation fails. AI support can be useful. I talk about AI all the time. But when an account is wrongly disabled, when an appeal stalls, or when someone loses access to business tools, there needs to be a human path. What I Want From Meta I am not looking for money. I want my account back. I want access to my Facebook profile, my Instagram, my Threads, my Messenger conversations, my pages, my groups, and the business tools that were connected to them. I want to get back to building Geekazine and continuing the work I have done for nearly two decades. Maybe Meta restores everything tomorrow. Maybe I get the email that says the account is back and everything is fine. I hope that happens. But after three weeks of silence, it is hard not to feel like the system is broken. Final Take Getting facebook phished can happen fast. One mistake can turn into a full facebook hacked nightmare. And if your Instagram is tied to that account, you could end up with your instagram taken down, too. The best thing you can do right now is protect yourself before it happens. Turn on two-factor authentication. Do not approve logins you did not start. Add trusted admins to important pages. Keep backup contact options available. Download your data when you can. Most important, do not assume a platform will quickly help you fix it.   Check out the Geekazine Merch, including "I AM AI " T-Shirt.  Thanks for reading! Don't forget to subscribe to Geekazine: RSS Feed - YouTube Twitter - Facebook Tip Me via Paypal.me Send a Tip via Venmo RSS Bandwidth by Cachefly Get a 14 Day Trial Be a Patreon: Part of the Sconnie Geek Nation! Reviews: Geekazine gets products in to review. Opinions are of Geekazine.com. Sponsored content will be labeled as such. Read all policies on the Geekazine review page.  Reviews: Geekazine is also an affiliate of Amazon Last Updated on June 10, 2026 9:51 am by Jeffrey Powers The post My Facebook Was Phished. What META Did Next is Frustrating appeared first on Geekazine.

    25 min

  3. May 11 ·  Video

    Blackmagic Fairlight Live: Standalone Audio Mixing System (NAB 2026)

    Make a Logo on Fiverr Blackmagic Brings Fairlight Into the Live Audio World Blackmagic Design has been steadily building Fairlight into its larger production ecosystem, and at NAB 2026, the company showed off a major step forward: Blackmagic Fairlight Live, a standalone audio mixing system built for live production. Fairlight has long been known as the audio engine inside DaVinci Resolve, giving editors and post-production teams tools for mixing, EQ, compression, gating and audio cleanup. But this new version pulls Fairlight out of Resolve and gives it a dedicated live workflow, designed for people who need to mix audio during events, broadcasts, houses of worship, livestreams and video productions. It Looks Like a Console, But the Mac Does the Heavy Lifting The big thing to understand about Blackmagic Fairlight Live is that the hardware panel is a controller. The actual processing runs on a computer, with Blackmagic showing the system running through a Mac at NAB. That means the console itself is not a traditional all-in-one audio mixer with every input and output built directly into the back. Instead, your audio I/O connects through the computer using interfaces, virtual sound cards or networked audio workflows. The Fairlight Live panel then gives you hands-on control of the mix. That approach may feel different from a traditional soundboard, but it also makes the system more flexible. If your venue already has audio running over Ethernet, Dante Virtual Soundcard, AES, USB, Thunderbolt or another digital audio interface, Fairlight Live can fit into that existing setup without requiring a completely new wiring plan. Built for ATEM and Blackmagic Video Workflows While Fairlight Live can operate as a standalone audio mixer, Blackmagic is clearly positioning it as part of a larger live production chain. The system can pair with ATEM switchers, allowing a dedicated audio operator to control audio separately from the video switcher. That could be a big advantage for churches, live music venues, schools, conference rooms and production teams already using Blackmagic ATEM hardware. Instead of forcing one person to manage both video switching and audio control from the same panel, Fairlight Live gives the audio side its own dedicated surface. 10, 20 and 40 Channel Panels Blackmagic showed multiple Fairlight Live hardware options at NAB, including 10-channel, 20-channel and 40-channel panels. The larger models include multiple screens, giving operators direct access to processing tools and master controls. Those screens can show channel strips, EQ, compression, gates, expanders and other controls, making it feel closer to a traditional digital mixing console. Multiple banks also allow users to layer deeper channel counts beyond the physical faders in front of them. Plugins, Effects and Live Processing Because Fairlight Live runs its processing on the computer, the available CPU power matters. Blackmagic suggested that a newer Mac mini would be a professional baseline, while something like a Mac Studio would offer far more headroom. The system supports the same kind of audio processing users may already know from DaVinci Resolve’s Fairlight page. That includes Blackmagic’s built-in effects as well as AU and VST plugins from third-party manufacturers. For live production, that means common tools like reverb, delay, EQ and dynamics processing should be available inside the Fairlight workflow. More demanding plugins could introduce latency, so the computer and plugin choices will matter for larger productions. A Possible Replacement for Traditional Live Soundboards For venues already using compact digital mixers, Blackmagic audio workflows could become a serious option. Fairlight Live is designed to replace a traditional soundboard, but with one important caveat: you still need a computer and an audio interface or network audio system to bring signals in and out. The back of the panel includes features like XLR talkback inputs, XLR monitor outputs, Ethernet connections and USB for updates. But the main audio I/O is handled outside the console. That makes Fairlight Live less like a self-contained mixer and more like a control surface for a computer-based live audio system. Remote Control and Flexible Setups Blackmagic also noted that the system can be controlled remotely, including from an iPad. That opens the door for operators to adjust audio from different locations in a room, stage or production space. For live events, that could be especially useful. A venue could have the main Fairlight Live surface at front of house, while another operator or technician checks levels from another position. Release Timing and Platform Support At NAB 2026, Blackmagic said the Fairlight Live software beta was already available on its website, and the hardware panels were expected around the July to August timeframe. The system was shown running on Mac, and while Blackmagic’s broader software ecosystem often supports Mac, Windows and Linux, the final platform support for Fairlight Live was still being worked on at the time of the NAB demo. Why Fairlight Live Matters The biggest takeaway is that Blackmagic Fairlight Live brings Blackmagic’s audio tools into the same live production conversation as ATEM switchers, 2110 workflows and modern networked production systems. For creators, venues and live production teams already using Blackmagic gear, this could become a more integrated way to manage blackmagic audio without relying on a separate traditional console. It is not just an audio mixer in the old-school sense. It is a computer-powered, software-driven live mixing system with dedicated hardware control — and for Blackmagic users, that could make Fairlight Live one of the most interesting NAB 2026 announcements. Last Updated on June 9, 2026 5:16 pm by Jeffrey Powers The post Blackmagic Fairlight Live: Standalone Audio Mixing System (NAB 2026) appeared first on Geekazine.

    10 min

  4. May 9 ·  Video

    Adobe Premiere: Color Mode Makes a Huge Overhaul! (NAB 2026)

    Make a Logo on Fiverr Adobe Premiere Pro is getting one of its biggest color workflow changes in years, and at NAB 2026, Adobe showed off what could be the future of color grading inside the editor. The headline feature is Color Mode, a new color-focused workspace currently in Premiere beta. Adobe says it was built from the ground up to make color correction and grading easier for video editors without requiring them to become full-time colorists. Premiere’s Color Workflow Gets Rebuilt Color Mode is designed to put the image front and center, with color tools placed directly below the viewer instead of buried in panels. The goal is to make color decisions faster and more visual while keeping the workflow inside Premiere. Rather than relying on layers of Lumetri effects, copied settings and adjustment layers, Color Mode introduces a cleaner system of adjustments, groups and sequence-level operations. Editors can apply color changes to individual clips, groups of clips or an entire sequence. A New Clip Grid for Faster Grading One of the biggest interface changes is the new clip grid. Instead of thinking only in terms of a traditional timeline, Premiere can show clips in a grid layout for color work. That makes it easier to jump between shots, compare looks and apply grades across multiple clips. The interface is also flexible. Panels can be moved and docked, giving editors room to customize the workspace around how they prefer to grade. Heads-Up Controls Make Color More Interactive Color Mode introduces a more hands-on way to adjust color. Click a control like temperature, contrast or tint, and Premiere brings up a heads-up display with the most relevant video scope for that adjustment. Instead of dragging a slider while holding the mouse button down, editors can click once and move the mouse for more precise changes. Many controls are bidirectional, so moving up and down can adjust one value while moving left and right adjusts another related setting. For example, temperature and tint can be adjusted together, helping editors fine-tune an image more naturally. Styles Are Like Supercharged Looks Adobe also showed off Styles, which act like advanced looks built from multiple modules. A style can be applied at the sequence level, instantly updating the entire clip grid. Editors can start with a preset, then open it up and fine-tune individual pieces such as film color, film emulation, contrast and other modules. Adobe described this as a way to get powerful results without needing deep technical color knowledge. Hue Shifts, Texture and Beauty Adjustments Color Mode also includes tools for changing dominant hues in an image. Premiere can show key colors from the frame, letting editors select a color and shift it directly. In the demo, changing red rims toward purple was as simple as selecting the red hue and moving the hue shift control. There are also texture and sharpness tools, which could help with beauty work or softening skin while still keeping image detail under control. Operations Replace the Old Messy Workflow Adobe refers to these color changes as operations. They can be copied, pasted, moved and organized. Operations build from left to right, making the grade easier to understand as it grows. That could be a big improvement for editors who have wrestled with adjustment layers, duplicated Lumetri effects and complicated timelines just to keep a grade consistent. What About Lumetri? Adobe says Lumetri is not disappearing from older projects. Existing projects can still be opened, and Lumetri adjustments will remain available through the Effect Controls panel. But Adobe was clear: Color Mode is the way forward for Premiere color work. Still in Beta, With More Coming Color Mode is currently in Premiere beta. Adobe said the goal is to ship it by the end of the year, while continuing to gather feedback throughout the summer. Adobe also said it worked with more than 400 editors while building the new workflow, and the company plans to keep refining it as more users test it. A Big Change for Premiere Editors For creators who edit and color in Premiere, this could be a major shift. The new premiere color mode looks more visual, more organized and more approachable than the older workflow. There will be a learning curve, especially for editors used to the current Lumetri panel. But Adobe is positioning Color Mode as a faster, more editor-friendly way to handle color correction and grading without leaving Premiere. All at Adobe.com   Check out the Geekazine Merch, including "I AM AI " T-Shirt.  Thanks for reading! Don't forget to subscribe to Geekazine: RSS Feed - YouTube Twitter - Facebook Tip Me via Paypal.me Send a Tip via Venmo RSS Bandwidth by Cachefly Get a 14 Day Trial Be a Patreon: Part of the Sconnie Geek Nation! Reviews: Geekazine gets products in to review. Opinions are of Geekazine.com. Sponsored content will be labeled as such. Read all policies on the Geekazine review page.  Reviews: Geekazine is also an affiliate of Amazon Last Updated on June 9, 2026 5:10 pm by Jeffrey Powers The post Adobe Premiere: Color Mode Makes a Huge Overhaul! (NAB 2026) appeared first on Geekazine.

    10 min

  5. May 5 ·  Video

    Never Lose Stuff Again! Scanlily AI Inventory & QR Code Organizer

    Make a Logo on Fiverr Scanlily Turns Clutter Into a Searchable Inventory Most of us have that one box in the garage, attic or storage room that might contain old yearbooks, cables, comic books, Christmas lights or something we forgot we even owned. Scanlily is built to solve that problem by turning your stuff into a searchable digital inventory, using AI recognition and QR code scanning to help you track where everything is. The idea is simple: take a photo or video of an item, bin or container, and Scanlily helps identify what it sees. It can create descriptions, organize items into categories and make your inventory searchable from a phone or desktop. For anyone who has ever dug through storage looking for one specific thing, this feels like the kind of tech that should have existed years ago. How the QR Code Scanning Works Scanlily can be used with or without QR codes, but the QR labels are where the system starts to feel especially useful. You can place a QR code on a bin, box, tote or individual item, then scan it later to see what is inside or attached to that label. In the demo, a QR label was added to a storage bin holding comic books. After scanning the code, Scanlily used the phone camera to capture the contents, then generated an AI description for the container and the items inside. That means the next time you need to find those Superman comics, old collectibles or holiday decorations, you can scan the box instead of opening every tote on the shelf. AI Helps Cut Down Manual Entry The biggest advantage here is that Scanlily reduces the amount of typing normally required by an inventory tracker. Instead of manually entering every item, the AI can look at an image and suggest what it sees. For example, it recognized comic books in protective sleeves and identified details such as Superman and DC Comics. That will not replace every manual note, but it gets you much closer to a usable home inventory without spending hours building a spreadsheet from scratch. Useful for More Than Just Home Inventory Scanlily is not just for garages and attics. It can be used for collectibles, business equipment, tools, storage lockers, shoes, instruments, decorations and anything else that needs to be tracked. For home users, it could help with moving, insurance documentation or just knowing where something is stored. For businesses, Scanlily adds features such as multi-user access, equipment tracking, booking, maintenance reminders and reporting. That makes it more than a QR code scanning app — it becomes a lightweight asset management system. Mobile and Desktop Views Make It Easier to Manage Scanlily works on mobile and web, so you are not locked into one device. The phone app is useful for scanning QR codes and adding new items quickly, while the desktop view gives you a broader look at your inventory. The web dashboard includes views such as spreadsheet-style listings, inventory cards and approved item lists. That makes it easier to review everything you have scanned, check categories and see item photos at a glance. Privacy Controls Are a Smart Addition One useful feature is the ability to hide certain item details from public view. If someone scans a QR code with a regular camera app, the label can open a Scanlily page. But you can control whether the photo or item information is visible publicly. That matters if you are labeling boxes in a garage, office, warehouse or shared space. You may want the QR code to help you identify what is inside, without making every detail visible to someone else who scans it. Pros and Cons Scanlily is easy to set up, especially if you already know what containers or items you want to organize. The AI recognition helps speed up the process, and QR code scanning makes it practical when you are standing in front of a shelf full of boxes. The mobile and web access also makes it more flexible than a simple notes app or spreadsheet. The main downside is that any inventory system still takes some initial setup. You need to label bins, scan items and approve the AI-generated details. But compared with manually typing everything into a spreadsheet, Scanlily makes the process feel much more approachable. Final Thoughts Scanlily is a smart inventory tracker for anyone who wants to finally organize the mystery boxes in the garage, attic, office or storage room. With AI recognition, QR code scanning, barcode support and desktop inventory views, it gives you a practical way to build a home inventory without making the process feel like a full-time job. If you have ever wondered where your yearbook, comic books, Christmas decorations, tools or old tech gear ended up, Scanlily gives you a better way to find it later. Check it out at https://www.scanlily.com/   Check out the Geekazine Merch, including "I AM AI " T-Shirt.  Thanks for reading! Don't forget to subscribe to Geekazine: RSS Feed - YouTube Twitter - Facebook Tip Me via Paypal.me Send a Tip via Venmo RSS Bandwidth by Cachefly Get a 14 Day Trial Be a Patreon: Part of the Sconnie Geek Nation! Reviews: Geekazine gets products in to review. Opinions are of Geekazine.com. Sponsored content will be labeled as such. Read all policies on the Geekazine review page.  Reviews: Geekazine is also an affiliate of Amazon Last Updated on June 9, 2026 4:03 pm by Jeffrey Powers The post Never Lose Stuff Again! Scanlily AI Inventory & QR Code Organizer appeared first on Geekazine.

    18 min

  6. Apr 30 ·  Video

    Portable 6-Camera Switcher? Telycam Mix One Hands-On

    Make a Logo on Fiverr Telycam’s Mix One looks like the kind of production tool built for creators who need to move fast, pack light and still run a serious multi-camera show. Shown at NAB 2026, the Telycam Mix One combines a video switcher, touchscreen control surface and PTZ joystick into one portable unit aimed at live streamers, event producers, houses of worship, schools and mobile sports crews. The big headline: this is a six camera switcher that does not need a full rack of gear to get started. A Compact Switcher Built for Mobile Production The Telycam Mix One is designed as an all-in-one production console. Instead of carrying a separate switcher, PTZ controller and streaming encoder, this device puts those tools into a single portable box. That matters if you are producing basketball games, football games, presentations, interviews or live events where setup time is limited. The form factor is small enough to fit into a Pelican-style case, making it a practical option for creators who need to get in, connect cameras, produce the show and move on. Six Camera Inputs in One Box The Mix One supports up to six sources, giving producers a lot of flexibility for a portable system. The unit includes two HDMI inputs, two USB inputs and support for network-based video options including SRT, RTMP and NDI-HX3. That gives the Telycam Switcher room to handle traditional cameras, USB video sources and IP-based production workflows. For smaller productions, six cameras is more than enough to cover a wide shot, close-up, scoreboard, host camera, roaming angle and presentation feed. Touchscreen Control With Preview and Program The touchscreen is one of the Mix One’s most useful features. You can control the switcher directly from the display using a finger or stylus, with preview and program areas visible on the screen. That makes it easier to see what is ready to go live before switching it to the main output. It also keeps the workflow familiar for anyone who has used a traditional video switcher, while still making the whole system feel more modern and compact. Built-In PTZ Joystick Control The integrated joystick is a major advantage for PTZ camera users. With the joystick, you can move a camera around, adjust framing and control shots from the same device used to switch the show. One smart detail is that PTZ control is tied to the preview side, not the live program feed. That means you can line up your next camera shot before sending it live, helping avoid awkward camera moves being seen by the audience. Streaming and Output Options The Mix One also includes streaming tools, with options for RTMP, SRT and NDI workflows. That gives users multiple ways to send a production out to streaming platforms, remote destinations or network-based video systems. On the back, the unit includes HDMI program outputs, USB connections, XLR microphone input, line in, line out and dual LAN ports. The dual network ports are useful for failover or production setups that need more reliable connectivity. The Mix One can also run on PoE, which reduces the amount of power gear needed on location. For mobile production, fewer cables and fewer power bricks can make a big difference. Computer Companion App Telycam also offers a companion app for computer control. That means the Mix One can be placed off to the side while an operator controls the production from a PC. That flexibility could be useful in venues where the switcher needs to stay near the cameras or network connections, but the producer wants to operate from a more comfortable position. Price and Availability The Telycam Mix One is expected to launch in June with a price of $1,999. For a portable production system that combines a six camera switcher, PTZ joystick, touchscreen interface, streaming tools and multiple input types, that price puts it in an interesting spot for creators and small production teams who want a compact live workflow without building out a larger control rig. First Impression The Telycam Mix One feels like a practical tool for real-world productions. It is not just a switcher. It is a portable control center for multi-camera live video, especially if your workflow already includes PTZ cameras and network-based video. For creators producing sports, events, presentations or on-location streams, this could be a strong all-in-one option. The portability, six-source support, built-in joystick and streaming features make the Telycam mix one worth watching as it gets closer to release. Find out more at their website https://telycam.com/mix-one.html   Check out the Geekazine Merch, including "I AM AI " T-Shirt.  Thanks for reading! Don't forget to subscribe to Geekazine: RSS Feed - YouTube Twitter - Facebook Tip Me via Paypal.me Send a Tip via Venmo RSS Bandwidth by Cachefly Get a 14 Day Trial Be a Patreon: Part of the Sconnie Geek Nation! Reviews: Geekazine gets products in to review. Opinions are of Geekazine.com. Sponsored content will be labeled as such. Read all policies on the Geekazine review page.  Reviews: Geekazine is also an affiliate of Amazon Last Updated on June 9, 2026 3:51 pm by Jeffrey Powers The post Portable 6-Camera Switcher? Telycam Mix One Hands-On appeared first on Geekazine.

    5 min

  7. Apr 29 ·  Video

    Carbinox Edge Unboxing First Look and Most Extreme Durability Test Ever

    Make a Logo on Fiverr The Carbinox Edge is a durable smartwatch built for people who work, travel, hike, build, sweat and occasionally put their gear through situations most wearables would never survive. In this first look, the Carbinox Edge gets unboxed, paired, tested and then frozen inside a block of ice for one of the most extreme smartwatch durability tests I have ever done. A Rugged Smartwatch Built for Real Abuse The Carbinox Edge comes across as a smartwatch made for rougher environments. It features a stainless steel body, Gorilla Glass, IP69K protection, 5 ATM water resistance and a 1.96-inch AMOLED display. It is designed for users who want something tougher than a basic fitness watch, especially if they work on construction sites, spend time outdoors or simply want a watch that can handle more abuse than a typical smartwatch. The watch also includes dual-band GNSS with six tracking systems, which means it can track location without relying only on your phone. That could be useful for hiking, job sites, emergency situations or anywhere phone-free tracking matters. What Comes in the Box Inside the box, the Carbinox Edge includes the watch body, a band, a manual, a USB-C charging cable and a proprietary charging base. The charging dock is magnetic and connects to the back of the watch using two contact points. The included band uses quick-release pins, making it easier to attach or swap out. That is a nice touch if you want to change bands or replace one after heavy use. Setup and App Pairing Pairing the Carbinox Edge is straightforward. After powering on the watch, the setup process asks for a language selection and displays a QR code for app pairing. The watch connects through the Carbinox Max app, and once paired, it can show notifications, weather, fitness data, health tracking, watch settings and firmware updates. The watch works with both iPhone and Android devices. During setup, it connected quickly over Bluetooth and displayed battery level, GPS satellite data and watch face options through the app. Display, Battery and Features The Carbinox Edge has a 410-by-502 resolution AMOLED display with 331 PPI and up to 1,000 nits of brightness. That should make it easier to read indoors and outdoors. Battery life is one of the biggest selling points. The watch has a 500 mAh battery, with Carbinox claiming up to 25 days depending on use. In the test, the watch still had plenty of battery before being frozen, and after being removed from the ice, it still powered back on and reconnected. Health and utility features include heart rate, SpO2, sleep, stress, mood, activity tracking, workouts, weather, calls, alarms, music controls and notifications. The Extreme Ice Test Instead of simply scratching the screen, hitting it with a hammer or running it over, this test took a different approach. The Carbinox Edge was frozen inside a block of ice for 24 hours. The idea was to simulate an extreme situation where the watch might be buried, frozen or stuck in a harsh environment. After about 12 to 14 hours, the watch stopped responding to the phone while still frozen. But once it was chipped out of the ice, it powered back on, showed the correct time and reconnected to the phone. Even while wet, the touchscreen still responded. The buttons continued working, and the display showed no visible scratches after additional scraping and impact testing. What Worked Well The biggest win is durability. The Carbinox Edge survived being frozen in ice for a full day, then came back to life after being removed. The screen held up well, the buttons still worked and the watch remained usable even while wet. The long battery life is also a major plus. A durable smartwatch is only useful if it can stay powered long enough to matter, and the Carbinox Edge appears built with that in mind. The display is bright, the body feels rugged and the quick-release band system makes it easier to manage than older watch designs. A Few Issues to Watch There were a couple of issues during use. When traveling to Las Vegas, the phone updated to the new time zone, but the watch did not update until the Carbinox app was opened. That could likely be fixed in a firmware update. Notifications were another concern. The watch did not clearly separate text messages from other app notifications, activity alerts or reminders. Turning off unwanted notifications also affected text alerts. Again, this feels like something that could improve through software updates. Final First Look The Carbinox Edge is an extreme smartwatch for people who need more than basic fitness tracking. It is rugged, bright, long-lasting and surprisingly tough. Freezing it in a block of ice for 24 hours did stop it from responding temporarily, but once it came out, it powered back on and kept working. For anyone looking for a durable smartwatch that can handle harsh conditions, the Carbinox Edge makes a strong first impression. Get the Carbinox Edge Here: https://geni.us/carbinoxedge   Check out the Geekazine Merch, including "I AM AI " T-Shirt.  Thanks for reading! Don't forget to subscribe to Geekazine: RSS Feed - YouTube Twitter - Facebook Tip Me via Paypal.me Send a Tip via Venmo RSS Bandwidth by Cachefly Get a 14 Day Trial Be a Patreon: Part of the Sconnie Geek Nation! Reviews: Geekazine gets products in to review. Opinions are of Geekazine.com. Sponsored content will be labeled as such. Read all policies on the Geekazine review page.  Reviews: Geekazine is also an affiliate of Amazon Last Updated on June 9, 2026 3:42 pm by Jeffrey Powers The post Carbinox Edge Unboxing First Look and Most Extreme Durability Test Ever appeared first on Geekazine.

    28 min

  8. Apr 21 ·  Video

    Sony, Elgato, & Rode: The Best Tech for YouTubers at NAB 2026

    Make a Logo on Fiverr At NAB 2026, the National Association of Broadcasters show floor in Las Vegas delivered a clear message: creators are no longer “small productions.” From AI-powered tools to full broadcast workflows, today’s YouTuber is running a studio—and the gear on display proves it. This walkthrough highlights the most important innovations in video production, audio production, and AI Video Production, showcasing the new products shaping content creation right now. Sony Camera App & Wireless Control: Smarter Multi-Cam Production Sony’s latest camera control app is all about wireless flexibility. Instead of physically adjusting each camera, creators can now tweak focus, color, and exposure remotely in real time. This is a game changer for multi-camera YouTube setups, especially when matching shots across different Sony bodies. Add in their 5G-enabled transmitter hardware, and you’re looking at a future where remote production—from events to mobile shoots—becomes seamless and scalable. Epidemic Sound AI Tools: Smarter Audio for Video Creators Audio production is getting a major AI boost. Epidemic Sound introduced tools that analyze your footage and suggest music tracks automatically, placing them directly on a timeline. Even better, the “Adapt” feature lets you extend or reshape sections of music—perfect for pacing YouTube edits. Instead of replacing composers, AI here acts as a creative assistant, speeding up the workflow for creators who need fast turnaround. HP Z Series Workstations: Portable Power for Video Editing HP’s ZBook lineup continues to dominate mobile editing. With high-end Intel and NVIDIA RTX configurations, these machines can handle multi-camera edits, color grading, and even light live streaming on-site. For bigger productions, their desktop workstations push into serious territory with massive RAM and storage options—ideal for creators dealing with 4K and beyond. Neewer Teleprompter X17 II: Professional Delivery Made Easy The Neewer X17 II teleprompter isn’t just for reading scripts—it’s a full communication tool. With app-based controls, adjustable displays, and flexible mounting, it lets creators maintain eye contact during interviews, Zoom calls, or scripted content. For YouTubers looking to tighten delivery and boost professionalism, this is a simple but powerful upgrade. OBSBOT Tiny 3: AI Tracking Gets Even Better OBSBOT’s Tiny 3 builds on its AI tracking reputation with smoother motion and improved responsiveness. Whether you’re pacing during a presentation or recording a dynamic tutorial, the camera follows you automatically. The added mounting flexibility and improved image performance make it one of the best webcam-style upgrades for solo creators. OBSBOT Talent II: All-in-One Streaming Studio (Coming Soon) The upcoming Talent II is shaping up to be a powerhouse. With multiple HDMI inputs, Wi-Fi 6, 5G support, and battery operation, it’s designed for portable, multi-camera live streaming. Built-in failover connectivity means your stream stays live even if one network drops—huge for on-location YouTube productions. Elgato Stream Deck & Bitfocus Buttons: Total Production Control Elgato continues to dominate creator control systems. The evolution of Stream Deck into enterprise-grade setups—combined with Bitfocus Buttons—means you can automate nearly every part of your production. From triggering scenes to controlling lighting and overlays, this system transforms a desk into a command center for serious creators. Panasonic AW-UE150A PTZ Camera: Broadcast Control in a Compact Form Panasonic’s PTZ camera lineup brings broadcast-level control to smaller studios. With joystick operation, programmable presets, and smooth zoom capabilities, it’s ideal for live shows, podcasts, or hybrid events where multiple angles are needed without extra operators. PTZOptics Prototype Camera: Next-Gen Broadcast Flexibility PTZOptics teased a powerful prototype capable of 4K60 recording with extensive connectivity options including SDI, HDMI, and fiber. While details are still under wraps, this camera signals where broadcast and creator gear are merging—offering pro features at more accessible levels. PTZOptics PowerLink: Wireless Camera Connectivity Simplified PowerLink acts like a wireless bridge for cameras, enabling remote placement without running cables across a venue. It supports PoE and battery operation, making it ideal for sports, events, or roaming camera setups in large production environments. SanDisk USB-C Storage: Faster Mobile Workflows SanDisk continues to refine creator storage with USB-C and MagSafe-compatible drives. These solutions allow creators to offload footage directly from phones, preview content, and move files quickly into editing workflows—saving valuable time during production days. ATOMOS Ninja TX & TX Go: Monitoring Meets Flexibility ATOMOS introduced compact monitoring solutions with touchscreen controls, LUT support, and wireless capabilities. These devices function as both confidence monitors and color-checking tools, giving creators more control over their footage in real time. OSEE Omni 12 ISO Switcher: Affordable Multi-Cam Production The Omni 12 ISO brings high-end switching features—like multiple inputs, ISO recording, and multi-stream output—into a more accessible price range. It’s a strong competitor for creators who want broadcast-style switching without breaking the bank. Proton Mini Cameras: Tiny Cameras, Big Shots Proton’s miniature cameras are designed for tight spaces—think car interiors, rigs, or creative angles. While they lack automation features, their size opens up creative possibilities that standard cameras simply can’t achieve. Domo RX/TX Wireless Systems: Ultra-Compact Broadcasting Domo’s wireless transmitters are built for drones and mobile setups, offering HEVC transmission in extremely small packages. For creators experimenting with aerial or POV footage, this technology expands what’s possible without bulky gear. YoloLiv Yolobox Extreme: All-in-One Streaming Solution The Yolobox Extreme combines switching, streaming, recording, and guest integration into one unit. With support for multiple inputs and platforms, it’s ideal for creators running live shows, podcasts, or hybrid events without a full production team. Platypod Mounts: Flexible Camera Positioning Anywhere Platypod offers a modular alternative to traditional tripods. With adjustable mounts and compact designs, creators can place cameras in unconventional spots—perfect for creative angles or tight shooting environments. RodeLink II UHF Wireless Microphone: Reliable Audio Anywhere Rode’s new UHF wireless system delivers stronger, more reliable connections than traditional 2.4GHz setups. With onboard recording, 32-bit float audio, and rugged construction, it’s built for professional interviews and field recording—exactly what YouTubers need when audio can’t fail. Build Your Production Desk with B&H: Creator Studio in a Box B&H showcased a complete creator desk setup, combining switchers, monitors, audio gear, and ergonomic furniture. It highlights how modern creators are building fully integrated studios—even in small spaces. ASUS ProArt Systems: AI-Ready Creative Workstations ASUS ProArt systems continue to push into AI-powered workflows. With RTX 5090 GPUs, high color-accuracy displays, and customizable controls, these machines are built for editing, rendering, and emerging AI-driven video production tools. Canon CJ20ex5b IASE S: Broadcast Optics for High-End Production Canon’s professional lens system delivers 4K UHD performance with a wide focal range and precise control. While aimed at broadcast professionals, it shows the level of quality and flexibility creators can aspire to as their productions grow.   Check out the Geekazine Merch, including "I AM AI " T-Shirt.  Thanks for reading! Don't forget to subscribe to Geekazine: RSS Feed - YouTube Twitter - Facebook Tip Me via Paypal.me Send a Tip via Venmo RSS Bandwidth by Cachefly Get a 14 Day Trial Be a Patreon: Part of the Sconnie Geek Nation! Reviews: Geekazine gets products in to review. Opinions are of Geekazine.com. Sponsored content will be labeled as such. Read all policies on the Geekazine review page.  Reviews: Geekazine is also an affiliate of Amazon Last Updated on May 1, 2026 11:23 am by Jeffrey Powers The post Sony, Elgato, & Rode: The Best Tech for YouTubers at NAB 2026 appeared first on Geekazine.

    46 min
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  • Creator
    Jeffrey Powers
  • Years Active
    2013 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
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    © 2024 Geekazine.com
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