The latest updates in tech and creative tools, including Pixelmator Pro 3.7, IB/E lenses, Blackbird's funding boost, Bela Gem audio systems, Leitz lenses, and more.
Pixelmator has had its first decent update since it was bought by Apple. Saying that, there's not much in the way of new features, and you can't imagine that the app's many core users are going to be overwhelmed by the addition of Apple Intelligence features such as Image Playground and Writing Tools. But Pixelmator Pro 3.7 does demonstrate the integration of Apple tech into Pixelmator code, and thus is worthwhile as a stepping stone to more exciting stuff in the future.
IB/E has added a 300mm option to its Optics RAPTOR Macro Cine Lens line. It features 2:1 magnification (maximum), T5.6, internal focus (constant), extended color correction / APO clarity, and minimum focusing distance of 16.3 in. (41.5cm) and working distance of 7.2 in. (18.3cm). Additionally, the front diameter is 95mm, M0.8 gear wheels for iris and focus control, and UMS PL mount (Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, and more). Pricing isn't available yet, but other RAPTOR lenses cost between $14,000 and $16,000, so premium pricing for these high-end lenses.
The IB/E RAPTOR Macro Cine lineup of lenses include 60mm T2.9, 100mm T2.9, 150mm T2.9, and 180mm T.29. Plus, two S35 RAPTOR Macro lenses including T2.3 / 120mm and T2.3 80mm. Learn about the IB/E RAPTRO Macro Cine Lens line here.
Cloud video platform specialist Blackbird has secured a £2 million top up to its funding to scale up and further kit out its elevate.io collaborative online video editor. Blackbird reckons that to the creator it feels like a high-performance native desktop application. Powered by the company's own patented technology, it's been designed to be fully hardware agnostic and deliver smooth, frame-accurate editing and asynchronous collaboration. elevate․io launched a payment tier with its £15/month Creator Plan in February 2025, and is now looking to scale and tap into the growing creator economy.
Over on the audio side of things, Bela says its new Bela Gem is its most powerful system ever, and the easiest-to-use embeddable audio system for sensors and sound.
Bela Gem comes in two versions: The $69 Bela Gem Stereo (2-in / 2-out audio) and the $159 Bela Gem Multi (10-in / 10-out audio). Both transform the PocketBeagle 2 single-board computer into a powerful platform for lightning-fast, hard real-time audio and sensor processing, ideal for instruments, effects, sound installations, industrial applications, and more.
Leitz says that its new Leitz THALIA 65 20mm lens will start delivery in limited numbers this month. The full set now includes 11 focal lengths with 3 macro lenses and 1 portrait lens.
Also coming this month is the LPL Mount for Sony VENICE Rialto Mini (above - includes LPL to PL Adapter). This follows the popularity of the Leitz LPL Mount for Sony VENICE and gives rentals and productions maximum flexibility with quick changes between formats and /i metadata contacts for both LPL and PL lenses.
Vimeo has unveiled the winners of the Vimeo Short Film Grant, presented by Nikon | RED. Designed to support the next generation of filmmakers, grant recipients will receive $30,000 to produce their short films, along with 1:1 mentorship, film equipment rentals supported by Nikon and RED, and distribution support via Vimeo. "In a time where algorithms shape so much of the content we’re exposed to, human-curated, intentional stories have never mattered more," said Philip Moyer, CEO of the company. Details of the five winners here. Grant winners tackle ICE fears, immigrant stories, and more, so topicality is not a problem.