Hohem’s First Camera‑Gimbal Combo Hits IFA
During this year’s IFA trade show in Berlin, Chinese stabiliser specialist Hohem pulled back the curtain on its inaugural camera‑gimbal hybrid – the EyePic. While the brand is better known for accessories such as the iSteady M7 smartphone stabiliser and a forthcoming portable SSD, the EyePic marks a strategic move into the same niche that DJI’s Osmo Pocket and Insta360’s Luna Ultra dominate.
What Sets the EyePic Apart?
The most eye‑catching claim from Hohem’s demo is the removable camera module. In practice, the device works like a traditional pocket‑sized gimbal – a small handheld rig with a built‑in LCD screen – but the sensor can be detached and used as a standalone action cam. Think of it as a blend of the Insta360 Go’s clip‑on freedom and the DJI Osmo Pocket’s ergonomic grip.
- Hybrid design – The gimbal houses a 1/2.3‑inch sensor (exact specs not disclosed) that can be unscrewed and re‑attached without tools.
- Built‑in viewfinder – Unlike the Go, the EyePic retains a screen, allowing framers to see exactly what they’re shooting even when the camera is detached.
- Compact footprint – At roughly 60 mm × 35 mm × 30 mm, it fits comfortably in a jacket pocket, comparable to the Osmo Pocket 4.
- Software integration – Hohem demonstrated a companion app that syncs footage, adds stabilisation presets and offers remote control when the module is used independently.
The removable‑camera trick is something DJI has not replicated in its current lineup. While the Osmo Pocket 4 offers a sleek all‑in‑one package, it forces users to keep the sensor tethered to the stabiliser, limiting flexibility for quick‑change shooting scenarios.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
| Feature | Hohem EyePic | DJI Osmo Pocket 4 | Insta360 Luna Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camera module | Detachable (sensor size undisclosed) | Fixed (1/1.7‑inch) | Detachable (1/2.3‑inch) |
| Built‑in screen | Yes, 1.5‑inch LCD | Yes, 1.4‑inch LCD | No screen – remote‑only |
| Max video resolution | Rumoured 4K @ 30 fps | 4K @ 60 fps | 4K @ 30 fps |
| Stabilisation | 3‑axis gimbal + electronic | 3‑axis gimbal + electronic | 3‑axis gimbal |
| Weight | ~120 g | ~117 g | ~95 g |
| Price (est.) | £250‑£300 | £329 | £279 |
While the table contains some speculation – Hohem has not released full technical data – the key differentiator is clear: the ability to separate the camera from the stabiliser. Insta360 already offers a similar concept with the Luna Ultra, but that model removes the screen entirely, turning the camera into a remote‑only device. Hohem’s approach keeps the visual feedback loop, which could be a decisive factor for vloggers and solo creators who need to monitor framing on the fly.
Why This Matters for UK Buyers
The UK market has traditionally gravitated towards DJI’s ecosystem because of its reliability and the extensive accessory range (ND filters, external microphones, etc.). However, recent US‑government restrictions on DJI have created a ripple effect, loosening the brand’s dominance in western markets. This regulatory pressure gives newcomers like Hohem and Insta360 a chance to carve out a foothold.
For contract‑deal hunters, a few practical considerations arise:
- Pricing pressure – If Hohem can deliver comparable video quality at a lower price point, carriers and retailers may bundle the EyePic with data‑plan contracts to attract content‑creation‑focused customers.
- Accessory ecosystem – Hohem already supplies a range of smartphone gimbals and mounts, meaning users could potentially expand their kit without switching brands.
- Software support – The companion app appears to run on both Android and iOS, a plus for UK users who often switch between devices.
- Warranty and service – As a newer entrant, Hohem’s UK warranty terms are still being finalised. Buyers should watch for official statements from retailers like Currys or Amazon UK.
- Future firmware updates – Given the modular nature, Hohem may roll out camera‑only firmware upgrades, keeping the device relevant longer than a fixed‑camera gimbal.
Real‑World Use Cases
During the IFA demo, Hohem’s team filmed a short interview segment using the EyePic in two modes:
- Gimbal‑locked – The camera stayed attached, delivering smooth pans and tilts typical of pocket‑gimbals.
- Detached – The sensor was clipped onto a bike helmet, acting as a lightweight action cam while the gimbal remained in a pocket for later use.
The footage, while not released in full resolution, appeared clean and well‑stabilised, with colour rendition that held up against the Osmo Pocket’s signature look. The detachable mode proved handy for scenarios where a full‑size rig would be cumbersome – for example, quick‑capture moments at festivals or street‑level interviews.
Potential Drawbacks
No product is without its caveats, and the EyePic raises a few questions:
- Battery life – Early reports suggest a 1500 mAh cell, which may translate to roughly 90 minutes of continuous shooting – similar to DJI’s offering but potentially less when the camera is used independently.
- Audio quality – The built‑in microphone is likely mono; serious creators will still need an external mic, which may require an adapter.
- Availability – Hohem hinted at a late‑Q4 2026 launch in Europe, but exact UK stock dates remain unconfirmed.
Outlook and Verdict
Hohem’s EyePic is a bold attempt to differentiate itself in a crowded pocket‑camera market. By marrying a detachable sensor with a traditional gimbal layout, it offers a flexibility that could appeal to solo creators, vloggers, and anyone looking to cut down on gear weight.
For UK consumers, the device arrives at a moment when DJI’s market share is under scrutiny, creating an opening for alternatives. If Hohem can back its hardware with solid software updates and a competitive price, the EyePic may become a standard‑issue accessory for contract‑deal bundles aimed at the creator economy.
Bottom line: Keep an eye on Hohem’s official UK release announcements. The EyePic could soon be the missing link between a pocket‑sized gimbal and a true action cam – a combination that, until now, has been split between two separate products.
All specifications are based on information disclosed at IFA 2026 and industry rumours. Final UK pricing and availability will be confirmed by Hohem later this year.
