Nexus G1 Cinema Camera Now Operational With First Test Footage Released

The Nexus G1 modular box-style cinema digicam has reached a significant milestone, with the workforce confirming the digicam is now totally operational and sharing the primary check footage shot throughout area testing within the Australian rainforest.For many who have been following this bold unbiased digicam undertaking (earlier studies right here and right here), this newest replace represents a big leap ahead. The Nexus G1, constructed across the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Digicam 6K imaging system however housed in a totally redesigned modular physique, has been in growth since January 2024. We final reported on the undertaking when preorders opened earlier this 12 months, and now Replace #10 brings affirmation that the imaging system, cooling system, MaxDrive storage, and optical system are all full and examined.The accompanying quick movie, shot by the Nexus workforce with actor Logan Huffman, marks the primary time we’re seeing precise footage from the digicam. Nearly all footage was captured handheld utilizing a mixture of classic lenses, inexpensive cine primes, and Sigma photograph lenses, giving potential patrons a sensible sense of what the digicam can ship with broadly obtainable glass relatively than unique cinema optics.Discipline testing in difficult conditionsThe Nexus workforce has been placing the digicam by way of its paces within the scorching and humid Australian rainforest for a number of weeks. In keeping with the replace, the run-and-gun taking pictures expertise has been distinctive, with the workforce noting they’ve developed a newfound appreciation for handheld taking pictures due to the digicam’s uncooked versatility.Past real-world area testing, the cooling system underwent stress testing in an environmental chamber at 57°C / 134°F, the very best temperature ever recorded on Earth (Demise Valley, Nevada). The Nexus G1 stuffed a complete 1TB MaxDrive, recording for 1.5 hours straight with out overheating. The workforce describes the cooling system as intentionally overpowered, preserving the sensor cool for minimal thermal noise whereas sustaining quiet fan operation.Optical system refinementsOne space that obtained extra growth time than initially deliberate was the optical system, particularly sensor stack peak optimization. This typically ignored facet of digicam design ensures that lenses undertaking their optical wavefront to the sensor as meant, maximizing edge MTF and lowering chromatic aberrations.The workforce carried out precision spectral evaluation of a number of IR-filter supplies and the E-ND factor to fulfill stack-height necessities whereas reaching goal spectral response and efficient IR suppression. Griffith College Brisbane supported this work by offering entry to their lab and spectral evaluation tools.Wi-fi connectivity solvedThe magnesium alloy and carbon fiber building introduced important challenges for implementing wi-fi techniques, as these supplies successfully block radio indicators. After exploring quite a few options, the workforce determined to incorporate each inside and exterior antenna choices relatively than compromise on vary or ergonomics.By default, the Nexus G1 makes use of twin high-gain twin band inside antennas mounted flush with the physique. For conditions requiring prolonged vary, two devoted MMCX ports on prime of the digicam settle for full-sized twin band exterior SMA or MMCX whip antennas for long-range digicam management.Flat lay photograph of the Nexus disassembled. Picture credit score: Nexus CameraFull body module and gimbal compatibilityThe workforce has additionally designed a proprietary FF module that gives an efficient full body sensor measurement, optically optimized for the Nexus G1. Testing with T1.5 primes boosted to T1.0 is deliberate for future updates.Gimbal integration has additionally been validated utilizing the DJI RS3 Professional. In keeping with the replace, the digicam transitions seamlessly from handheld, tripod, slider, or shoulder rig immediately onto the gimbal with out breaking down rigging or constructing a separate gimbal configuration. The Nexus may even energy the gimbal immediately for lowered weight.Value and availabilityFirst models are actually deliberate for launch in Q1 2026, a shift from the beforehand introduced Q3 2025 timeline. The workforce acknowledges that complicated technical points induced delays however emphasizes that fixing these challenges led to technical developments past the unique specs. The Nexus G1 commonplace retail value stays $3,300, with preorders obtainable at $2,980. All preorders obtain the Founders Version with customized markings and Lightning Strike carbon fiber facet panels.What do you consider the primary footage from the Nexus G1? Does the hand-held taking pictures model and selection of accessible lenses provide you with a greater sense of the digicam’s real-world capabilities? Don’t hesitate to tell us within the feedback beneath!