Accounting software startup Pennylane has raised 75 million euros ($83 million) in a new funding round led by Sequoia Capital.

Smartphone cameras are still getting bigger and better by the year, particularly if you look at high-end phones coming out of China with huge sensors and protruding bumps to match. These phones can deliver awesome results, and Im happy to use them in several situations where I would previously have had to rely on a dedicated camera. Just this week I used the Xiaomi 15 Ultra to shoot a Formula One event in Tokyo.But for all the advances that have been made, the laws of physics remain undefeated, and youre still going to get better results from a camera setup thats able to make use of larger lenses and sensors. Phones do need to be able to fit into our pockets, after all, so theres a limit to what can be achieved in that regard.At Mobile World Congress this year, some concept announcements showed that companies are thinking about this reality, coming up with ideas to move mobile photography beyond the constraints of the phone. The question is whether peripheral camera products can ever really be more than a niche curiosity.Xiaomis concept is called the Modular Optical System, and it involves self-contained camera modules that magnetically and wirelessly attach to your phone. While the company doesnt have concrete plans to sell them commercially, working models do exist I used one.The demonstration unit had a Micro Four Thirds-size sensor with a 17.5mm f/1.4 lens, which comes out to 35mm-equivalent when accounting for the sensors crop factor. It could attach to a Xiaomi 15 phone that had been outfitted with magnets and a window for laser data transfer but otherwise looked normal.The connection felt very secure, and there wasnt any need to fiddle with Bluetooth pairing or any special software once connected, the feed from the camera simply appears in the regular camera app. You can focus the lens by turning its ring or tapping the phones screen.Because the camera mounts to the middle of the phone, the resulting combination feels well-balanced and similar to a regular mirrorless camera. It did make me wish the phone had a dedicated shutter button on the edge, though; using the touchscreen with your hands in that position takes some getting used to.The results, at least as far as I could tell on the phone screen, were excellent. Micro Four Thirds is one of the smaller mirrorless formats, but its still a huge leap over even the 1-inch sensors found in the highest end phone cameras, and pairing one with a fast 35mm-equivalent lens makes for a really useful combination. I was taking pictures of friends in a dark restaurant that clearly could not have been captured on a phone.Realme, a sister brand to Oppo, took another approach. Its Ultra concept phone has a couple of traditional smartphone cameras as well as a third 1-inch sensor thats exposed behind the glass; you can attach a Leica M-mount adapter and a lens of your choice to use with that sensor.This feels somewhat less useful in practice. Theres no electrical connection between the lens and the phone, so adjusting the aperture ring isnt going to be reflected in software; the experience is more like adapting a manual lens to a digital camera.M-mount lenses are all manual focus, however, so there isnt a need for anything like the touchscreen AF solution like Xiaomi came up with. But the sensors 2.7x crop factor means that actual Leica M lenses will have a zoomed-in field of view even a wide-angle 28mm becomes a 75mm-equivalent portrait lens.These arent necessarily new ideas. Realmes is very similar to a Leica M-mount concept Xiaomi put out a few years ago, while Xiaomis own idea of wireless camera modules has been tried before.And Sony made a go of it in 2013 with the quirky QX line, a range of all-in-one cameras that connected over Wi-Fi and clipped onto the back of your phone; one model even featured an APS-C sensor and could work with any E-mount mirrorless lens. Olympus tried something similar in 2014 with the Air A01, a wireless Micro Four Thirds sensor and mount.There have been two big problems with these kinds of products in the past.The first was that they were a hassle to use, forcing you to deal with attachment mechanisms, wireless pairing, and slow connectivity. The appeal of mobile photography is its convenience, and these detracted from that.The second, arguably bigger hurdle is simply that they were separate devices that you had to carry alongside your phone. Thats a big ask for most people. Sonys QX100 had the same sensor and lens as its excellent RX100 compact camera, but it cost almost as much why not just carry the actual camera instead?Sony discontinued the QX line pretty quickly, suggesting it didnt take off with consumers. Things could be different today Xiaomis magnetic mount solution is certainly more convenient but its still hard to see the idea becoming mainstream.Personally, I would be interested in buying something like the Xiaomi concept I used. Id still have several questions, like how much itd cost and how long the magnetic mount would be supported on future handsets, but even in prototype form the idea worked well enough that I could see the extra lens being worth tossing into a tote bag.But for most people, my sense is that it will still be worth paying more attention to built-in phone camera quality for the foreseeable future. Thats the camera youll actually find yourself using.

PROS: Exceptional 130 dB dynamic range captures whispers to shouts flawlessly. Ultra-compact 3mm lavalier microphone offers discreet, professional-grade audio capture. Dual-display receiver design allows quick status checks during active shooting. 32-bit float recording eliminates concerns about unexpected audio level spikes. Comprehensive timecode synchronization streamlines complex post-production workflows effortlessly.CONS: The US Version's simultaneous recording and transmission restriction limits workflow flexibility. Non-rotatable transmitter clip occasionally restricts optimal microphone placement options.RATINGS:AESTHETICSERGONOMICSPERFORMANCESUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITYVALUE FOR MONEYEDITOR'S QUOTE:The Saramonic K9 redefines professional wireless audio with uncompromising quality, thoughtful design, and versatile features that elevate any production.Sound is important, and reliability is crucial in professional audio recording. The Saramonic K9 dual-channel digital UHF wireless microphone system enters the market with bold promises about revolutionizing wireless audio transmission for demanding professionals. Does it deliver? Can it handle the rigors of professional filmmaking, broadcasting, and location recording? After weeks of testing across varied environments, Ive thoroughly evaluated this systems capabilities and limitations.Designer:Design/Aesthetics and ErgonomicsThe Saramonic K9 system exhibits thoughtful design emphasizing compactness, durability, and user convenience. The transmitter has compact dimensions of 45.5 33.5 15 mm and a light weight of 35 g. The transmitters bodypack is made of lightweight aluminum alloy and weighs 125g without accessories (130g with batteries, belt clip, and antenna), with dimensions of 80 62 18.5 mm. It features a metal clip that is non-removable and non-rotatable, providing secure attachment to clothing or equipment.The receiver features a clear AMOLED display and includes an added top display for easy information scanning without needing to look deeply into a bag a practical feature when the receiver is stowed away during active shooting. With dimensions of 83.5 66 23.5 mm and weighing 162 g with batteries, belt clip, and antenna, the receiver carries an IPX5 water resistance rating, providing protection against water jets from any direction.Perhaps the most impressive design element is the included 3mm miniature lavalier microphone, noted as the smallest in its class. This remarkably discreet mic doesnt compromise on durability, featuring IP67 water and dust resistance and Kevlar-reinforced cabling for enhanced resilience. With a cable length of 1.8m and a locking 3.5mm connector, it balances practical usability with professional-grade construction.A dedicated charging case (117 48.5 62.4 mm, 210.5g) provides convenient storage and charging for the transmitters and receiver. With a 2900 mAh battery capacity, it delivers more than one full charging cycle for two transmitters and one receiver, extending total operating time to 24 hours for the complete system.The design incorporates hidden buttons to prevent accidental presses during active use. Color-coded tags help quickly identify paired devices, streamlining workflow when using multiple units. The transmitter offers replaceable adapters with a plug-and-play design and no latch, with options for 3.5mm (female connector), USB-C, and Lightning connections, ensuring compatibility with virtually any recording device.For use in challenging conditions, the transmitter includes a windproof capsule and a built-in Silicon Mic. The entire system balances professional functionality with practical usability, though the non-rotatable transmitter clip occasionally limits placement options.PerformanceThe Saramonic K9 delivers exceptional real-world performance that will impress even the most demanding audio professionals. During several weeks of testing across multiple production environments, the system consistently provided reliable, high-quality audio that required minimal post-production treatment.Signal reliability stands out immediately. Operating across an ultra-wide 550960 MHz UHF spectrum, the K9 provides true global compatibility that proved invaluable during international shoots. Saramonics proprietary Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) technology delivers strong and clear signal transmission, even when operating over longer distances. The system boasts a transmission range of 300 meters when used with an external antenna and 250 meters without an external antenna. The transmitter itself has a specified range of 200 meters at 100 mW RF output power (available only in the US) and 180 meters at 50 mW under unobstructed and interference-free conditions.The auto frequency scanning feature automatically selects the clearest channel to minimize interference in congested RF environments. GPS-based frequency updates further enhance reliability by adjusting operating frequencies based on location to comply with local regulations.Audio quality is simply outstanding. The systems 130 dB input range and 120 dB analog output translate to remarkable dynamic range handling in practical use. During a theatrical performance recording, the K9 captured everything from hushed dialogue to explosive sound effects without a hint of distortion. The high signal-to-noise ratio (>90 dB system-wide, 104 dB for individual components) results in exceptionally clean recordings, while the full 20 Hz 20 kHz frequency response ensures natural sound reproduction across the entire audible spectrum.One particularly valuable feature is the dual device output capability, which allows the receiver to send audio to two separate devices simultaneously. This eliminates the need for external splitters or complex routing setups. Using the included 3.5mm, USB-C, and XLR cables, I could easily connect the K9 receiver to multiple recording destinations. For instance, when using the Nikon Zf for a documentary interview, I connected the receiver to both the cameras 3.5mm input and a separate field recorder via XLR for backup. This redundancy proved invaluable on several occasions, providing peace of mind during critical recording situations.In real-world shooting scenarios with my Nikon Zf and Olympus OM-3, the K9 integrated seamlessly. The systems versatile connectivity options made switching between cameras effortless. The receivers top display was a genuine time-saver, allowing me to monitor signal strength and battery status at a glance without removing it from my camera bag during run-and-gun shooting.With the Olympus OM-3, I appreciated how the K9s compact form factor maintained the cameras overall balance and portability. During street interviews, the systems discreet 3mm lavalier microphone was barely noticeable on subjects, yet delivered professional-quality audio that significantly elevated the production value of the footage. The replaceable adapter design meant I could quickly switch connections when moving between the two camera systems without needing additional adapters or cables.The system exhibits a low latency of 25 ms overall, with a component delay of 6.3 ms for both transmitter and receiver. This minimal delay ensures perfect audio/video synchronization in professional applications.A significant highlight, particularly in the Global Version, is the support for 32-bit float onboard recording with 32 GB of storage. This advanced recording format preserves pristine audio quality by capturing a much wider dynamic range, effectively eliminating distortion and clipping even when dealing with sudden and extreme audio spikes. The K9 also supports standard 24-bit recording at a sample rate of 48 kHz.Its critical to understand the distinctions between the US and Global versions. Due to patent restrictions within the United States, the US Version cannot simultaneously use wireless transmission and 32-bit float recording when used within US borders. This limitation is enforced through software control based on the devices GPS location. Despite this restriction, the US Version does retain both 32-bit float onboard recording and timecode features individually. When the US Version is used outside of the United States, its functionality becomes unrestricted, enabling full functionality of both features concurrently. The onboard storage capacity for the US version is not explicitly specified by the manufacturer.The SYNC recording mode has specific behaviors in the US Version: when SYNC recording is set in the US, recording will start automatically after timecode syncing, but only if RF transmission is not active simultaneously. If SYNC recording is off in the US, you must stop recording before syncing timecode, and recording will not restart automatically after syncing.For enhanced audio control, the system features one-click noise cancellation adjustable in three levels via the Saramonic System app. A low-cut filter is available with options for OFF, 75 Hz, 100 Hz, and 150 Hz, helping to reduce unwanted low-frequency noise.The K9 offers advanced timecode synchronization capabilities essential for streamlining post-production workflows. It supports wireless timecode sync through the Saramonic System app and provides a 3.5 mm wired option for integration with third-party timecode generators. The timecode clock accuracy is a precise 0.15 PPM, and the system supports the LTC (SMPTE) timecode type with various standard timecode framerates.Battery performance is solid, with transmitters officially rated for 6 hours (approximately 9 hours with K9 lithium iron batteries) and receivers operating for approximately 8 hours with K9 lithium iron batteries. The system supports charging while recording, providing flexibility during long sessions. Charging time for both transmitter and receiver is approximately 2.5 hours.SustainabilityThe Saramonic K9 demonstrates several sustainability-focused attributes. Its durable construction, featuring aluminum alloy components, IP67-rated lavalier microphone, and IPX5-rated receiver, suggests a long operational lifespan that reduces the frequency of replacement.The replaceable adapter design allows for future compatibility as device connections evolve, extending the systems useful life. When new connection standards emerge, users can simply update the adapters rather than replacing the entire system.Battery performance also contributes to sustainability. The lithium iron batteries offer better longevity than standard alternatives, potentially reducing battery waste over time. The systems ability to charge while recording extends usability in the field without requiring additional battery purchases.The charging cases ability to provide more than one charging cycle for two transmitters and one receiver contributes to extended field use without requiring external power sources. The system uses USB-C charging and 3.7V Lithium Rechargeable Batteries, following current standards for universal charging solutions.The Global Versions 32GB of onboard storage provides ample space for most professional recording scenarios. This integrated storage approach simplifies the systems design and operation, eliminating the need to purchase, manage, and potentially lose separate memory cards.Overall, the K9 demonstrates above-average sustainability considerations for professional audio equipment, with its primary environmental benefit coming from its durable construction and long expected operational life.ValueThe Saramonic K9 is available in two versions: the US Version, priced at USD 999.99, and the Global Version, priced at EUR 999.00 (including 19% VAT) / GBP 949.00 (including VAT). This represents a significant investment for content creators and audio professionals.For filmmakers and location sound recordists who require reliable wireless audio with backup recording capabilities, the K9 delivers excellent value despite its premium price. The peace of mind provided by the 32-bit float recording alone justifies much of the cost for professional productions where reshoots are expensive or impossible.Broadcast professionals and news teams will particularly value the systems global compatibility, interference resistance, and durable construction. The ability to manage up to 48 devices via the Saramonic System app adds significant value for complex productions.The K9 offers versatile connectivity options, supporting Mic input and dual device output. The system includes a variety of adapters and ships with 3.5mm, USB-C, and XLR cables, ensuring compatibility with cameras, recorders, computers, mixers, and phones. The receivers USB-C port can be used for direct connection to smartphones or computers for real-time audio transmission.Its worth noting that the value equation changes somewhat between the US and Global versions. For users primarily working within the United States, the inability to simultaneously use wireless transmission and 32-bit float recording (in the US Version) somewhat diminishes the value proposition. Those frequently working internationally may find the additional cost of the Global Version worthwhile for the unrestricted functionality.The comprehensive package includes everything needed for immediate professional use, eliminating the need for additional purchases that often inflate the real cost of competing systems.Final ThoughtsThe Saramonic K9 wireless microphone system is meticulously engineered to cater to the demanding needs of various professional audio and video creators. Its particularly well-suited for filmmakers and cinematographers who require high-quality wireless audio with precise timecode sync for efficient post-production workflow. Location sound recordists will appreciate its durable and interference-free transmission across the ultra-wide UHF spectrum, while broadcasting and live event professionals benefit from its global compatibility and ability to manage multiple devices.The systems key strengths include its exceptional audio quality with wide dynamic range, versatile recording options including 32-bit float capability, comprehensive timecode synchronization, and thoughtful design features like the dual-display receiver and ultra-compact lavalier microphone.The distinction between US and Global versions creates an important consideration for users based on their primary location and workflow needs. Despite this complexity, the K9 represents a significant advancement in wireless audio technology, balancing professional features with practical usability for demanding production environments.If you encounter Bluetooth connectivity issues, you can reset the Bluetooth by selecting BT Reset on the device screen and reconnecting via the appa small but helpful troubleshooting feature that demonstrates the systems user-friendly design.For professional filmmakers, location sound recordists, and broadcast professionals who demand reliability and exceptional audio quality, the Saramonic K9 represents a sound investment that will likely serve as a dependable production tool for years to come.The post Saramonic K9 Review: Professional Wireless Audio with Precision and Versatility first appeared on Yanko Design.

While it may be made from purest grey, the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 will keep you up all night and beyond.

A new report claims that Apple is planning to mark the 20th anniversary of the iPhone with a significant redesign, but perhaps not as dramatically different as it did for the iPhone X in 2007.Apple may release the iPhone fold as part of its iPhone 20th anniversary rangeWhile it's rumored that iOS 19 will feature a dramatic redesign, Apple's next iPhone is expected to physically resemble the current iPhone 16 range except for the rear cameras. Now a new report from Bloomberg claims that Apple is gearing up for a significant iPhone redesign for the models released in 2027."[The] the company is preparing a major shake-up for the iPhone's 20-year anniversary," it says, "including a foldable version and a bold new Pro model that makes more extensive use of glass." Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

The buff-tailed coronet (Boissonneaua flavescens) is a species of hummingbird in the "brilliants", members of the tribe Heliantheini in the subfamily Lesbiinae. Found in Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela, the buff-tailed coronet is 11 to 12 centimetres (4.3 to 4.7 inches) long and weighs 7.3 to 8.8 grams (0.26 to 0.31 ounces). Both sexes have a short, straight, black bill and a small white spot behind the eye. Males of the nominate subspecies, B.f.flavescens, are mostly shining green, with a buff belly spotted with green. The buff-tailed coronet is highly territorial, though it may share feeding at a flowering tree with other hummingbirds. It typically forages in the mid-story but also feeds in the canopy. Breeding behavior has been recorded between November and March, and it has a song consisting of "a continuous series of single high-pitched 'tsit' notes". This buff-tailed coronet of the subspecies B.f.flavescens was photographed in the Reserva Ecologica Rio Blanco, near Manizales, Colombia.Photograph credit: Charles J. SharpRecently featured: Filipendula vulgarisNadarRed pandaArchiveMore featured pictures

April 7: National Beer Day in the United StatesArtist's conception of 2001 Mars Odyssey1655 After a conclave lasting eighty days, the College of Cardinals elected Fabio Chigi as Pope AlexanderVII (pictured).1945 World WarII: U.S. forces sank the Japanese battleship Yamato during Operation KikusuiI in the East China Sea.1994 Rwandan Civil War: The Rwandan genocide began a few hours after the assassination of President Juvnal Habyarimana, with hundreds of thousands killed in the following 100 days.1995 First Chechen War: Russian paramilitary troops began a massacre of hundreds of civilians in Samashki, Chechnya.2001 NASA's 2001 Mars Odyssey (artist's conception pictured), the longest-surviving continually active spacecraft in orbit around a planet other than Earth, launched from Cape Canaveral.BerengarI of Italy (d.924)Martha Ray (d.1779)Joseph Lyons (d.1939)Dave Arneson (d.2009)More anniversaries: April 6April 7April 8ArchiveBy emailList of days of the yearAbout

For the first time, we may have the computing power and the intelligence to tackle problems with AI that were once beyond human reach.Read More

Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is planning to hold a hackathon next week in order to create a mega API for accessing Internal Revenue Service data, reports Wired. The outlet says the API would be used to move the data into a cloud platform potentially a third-party one to serve as the read center of the agencys systems.DOGEs hackathon plan includes pulling together dozens of IRS engineers in DC to build the API, writes Wired. Among the third-party providers the department has reportedly discussed involving is Palantir, a company known for its vast data collection and government surveillance and analysis work. DOGE is aiming to finish the API work in 30 days, a timeline one IRS employee told Wired is not technically possible and would cripple the IRS. Wired says the DOGE operatives orchestrating the project are 25-year-old Gavin Kliger and health-tech CEO Sam Corcos. On March 1st, The Washington Post reported that Corcos had pushed the agency to lift restrictions it had placed on Kligers access to its systems, and proposed an agreement to share IRS data across the government. A March 14th letter to the IRS from Senator Ron Wyden and others suggests the agency didnt relent, as it praises their rightful rejection of DOGEs requests. It goes on to cite another later Post story suggesting that Trump administration officials want to use IRS data to power their immigration crackdown and government efficiency campaign. One of the sources Wired spoke with said that schematizing and understanding the IRS data DOGE is after would take years and that these people have no experience, not only in government, but in the IRS or with taxes or anything else. DOGE has been winding its way through federal agencies since shortly after Trumps inauguration in January. Recent stops include the Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commission. And on Friday, it gained access to data maintained by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, which handles legal immigration.

A Minecraft Movie had a massive opening weekend at the box office and sparked pandemonium inside theaters, with popcorn being thrown, wild "CHICKEN JOCKEY!" screams, and even reports of police being called. But some are saying their experience was ruined by the chaos.Social media was flooded with videos showing overly enthusiastic cinemagoers screaming lines from the movie, openly filming with their phones, throwing popcorn, and clapping rowdily.One phrase in particular has risen to the top of the social media pile: "CHICKEN JOCKEY!" Jack Black, who plays Minecraft's famous playable character, Steve, says the line in the movie, and videos of screenings that took place over the weekend show it is sending teens delirious.PlayThe line is said during a scene in which Black and Jason Momoa face a cuboid Minecraft chicken who is ridden by a baby zombie in a boxing ring. Blacks Steve declares "CHICKEN JOCKEY!" after the baby zombie falls from a crate onto the chicken; a reference to the video game itself, where certain baby zombie characters are sometimes found riding a chicken.Given these fans had already seen the chicken jockey scene via a Minecraft trailer released in February, they were primed for release when they saw the movie in the cinema. And now, the chicken jockey line has taken on a life of its own, going viral on social media which in turn is fueling even more intense reaction.One person who filmed the reaction, X / Twitter user @ollie_twt, described the scenes: "the people behind me took their shirts off as well as the ones in the front that were standing. That was by far the loudest theater Ive ever been in and it was awesome."One Tik-Tok video viewed by IGN shows a person carrying another on their shoulders, mimicking the chicken jockey itself. Another video, below, shows a teen standing ready to throw two popcorn buckets over the audience during the chicken jockey scene.Another shows similar popcorn-throwing scenes:There are even reports of police being called to eject members of the audience, and complaints from theater employees who have taken to social media and online forums to say people throwing drinks and popcorn makes their jobs even harder. @salesmenpod This whole night was surreal and one of the most unforgettable movie experiences Ive ever had. . . #minecraft #movie #minecraftmovie #chicken #jockey #chickenjockey #fyp #viral #reaction #funny #meme #moviereview #featureme #clips #comedy #video #videogames #games #game original sound - Salesmen: After Hours While its clear a significant portion of the Minecraft movie audience is loving all the chaos, there are a number of fans who have expressed frustration that their experience was ruined by all the shouting and clapping.Then there are the bemused audience members who aren't in on the joke. Parents taking their young children, friends and family members who aren't as... online as the rest of us. @ickysnotbubble_ the audience was so hype #minecraftmovie #minecraftmoviememe QKThr - Aphex Twin Warner Bros. will no doubt be delighted by the virality of A Minecraft Movie, of course, as it heads into its second weekend. Its already secured an incredible $301 million during opening weekend. Could it eventually beat The super Mario Bros. Movie as the highest-grossing video game adaptation of all time?Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.