National Geographic photographer uses Lumia 950 to capture the aurora

The Microsoft Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL feature great cameras specifically tuned to shoot accurate and filmic images even in low-light. National Geographic photographer and Microsoft devices ambassador Stephen Alvarez decided to put the Lumia 950 to the test and capture aurora borealis as well as stunning vistas in the artic circle.

"As Microsoft’s Devices Ambassador, I knew Microsoft’s camera phone technology was advancing at a fantastic pace. Once I got the Lumia 950 in my hands, I was pretty sure it was capable of capturing a natural phenomenon that happens only at night," Stephen Alvarez explains. You can read about his technique, adventures as well as see his photos from the shoot right here.

IBM makes quantum computing available to the public via the cloud

IBM today opened up its cloud-powered quantum computing capability to the public. Because of this never done before move, researchers and scientists will have access and can run experiments on an IBM quantum processor connected to the cloud. They will be able to explore the vast possibilities of quantum computing, and help discover new applications for the technology that could lead to solving problems that are impossible to solve with today’s supercomputers. 

The cloud-enabled quantum computing platform, called IBM Quantum Experience, will allow users to run algorithms and experiments on IBM’s quantum processor, work with the individual quantum bits (qubits), and explore tutorials and simulations around what might be possible with quantum computing. 

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Hot Docs features micro documentaries #shotoniphone

Micro Docs - #HotDocs4Life from HotDocsFest on Vimeo.

The yearly Hots Docs film festival is on the great draws of Toronto and features dozens of compelling documentary and independent films on a wide range of topics. This year, they are adding alumni-shot micro documentaries that are shot exclusively on Apple's iPhone and cover topics pertinent to the festival.

“With advances in mobile filmmaking, putting iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus into the hands of filmmakers will drive new movements in the short doc space, offering filmmakers the ability to create stunning, pro-level content easier and faster than ever.” says Elizabeth Radshaw, Hot Docs industry programs director.The films were shot on 4K using the Filmic Pro app. Hit jump for more details.

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HP's new Pavilion releases highlight design and functionality

HP has unveiled its latest crop of Pavilion notebook and convertible devices aimed at the back-to-school season but offering features that are designed to entice general purpose users.

The new lineup is ideal for students, millennials and families, allowing customers to express their individual style while delivering the power they need to be productive and entertained at a price that delivers value. 

“Some customers want thin and light PCs for on the go while other customers want power and performance to create and store,” said Kevin Frost, vice president and general manager, consumer personal systems, HP Inc. “HP’s redesigned Pavilion PCs offer affordability and a variety of options for customers to get the functionality they need in a PC packed with style and personality.”

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