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At BILD Expo 2025, Hohem, a leading Chinese gimbal manufacturer for cameras and mobile phones, unveiled its latest flagship mobile gimbal, the iSteady M7, showcasing continued innovation in smartphone stabilization. Building upon the foundation of its predecessor, the M6, the iSteady M7 introduces several notable features tailored for solo content creators seeking greater independence from proprietary applications.
The iSteady M7βs most distinctive feature is its redesigned eye-tracking module, which can be removed and rotated while maintaining a secure lock to prevent accidental detachment. Next to that tracking device module, there is also a detachable remote control, enabling users to initiate and terminate recording without direct interaction with the gimbal or smartphone.
The tracking functionality extends beyond human subjects to include objects, providing versatility for diverse shooting scenarios. When utilising the remote, the detachable screen facilitates subject selection and gimbal control from a distance, positioning the device as a tool for independent content creation.
Most significantly, Hohem has addressed a prevalent limitation in mobile gimbals through the βmotor-out-of-the-wayβ function. Traditional gimbal designs often employ an elbow-style configuration to accommodate ultra-wide cameras, but the M7 incorporates a four-click trigger system that physically moves the motor assembly, eliminating obstructions when using wide-angle lenses.
The M7 introduces an extending arm mechanism, expanding the range of motion for low-angle and high-angle shots without necessitating operators to strain their posture. This mechanical improvement addresses practical ergonomic concerns while preserving the gimbalβs stability characteristics.
The Hohem iSteady M7 boasts a significantly increased payload capacity of 500g, representing a substantial 100g improvement over its predecessor. This enhancement enables the seamless integration of larger smartphones, an expanded range of accessories, lenses, filters, cases, and external microphones without compromising the deviceβs performance.
The gimbal is equipped with multiple quarter-inch mounting points strategically positioned both on the top and bottom surfaces of the device. This comprehensive design enhances accessory compatibility and provides a diverse array of mounting options, ensuring optimal performance for a wide range of devices.
A cornerstone of the M7βs design philosophy is the reduction of reliance on proprietary applications. The gimbal incorporates an ATV (Automated Movement) function that empowers users to programmatically navigate between predefined points without the need for smartphone applications. This functionality facilitates the creation of automated panning shots and time-lapse sequences, with all parameters conveniently adjustable directly through the remote control interface.
This approach empowers users to seamlessly utilise their preferred recording and streaming applications while preserving the gimbalβs functionality. This eliminates the restriction to manufacturer-specific software solutions, providing users with greater autonomy and flexibility in their recording process.
The eye-tracking module is integrated with a built-in RGB light, offering users the option to cycle through various lighting effects through the triple-click function. These lighting effects serve as valuable tools for content creation, providing a range of visual enhancements.
Hohem has developed a microphone solution designed to seamlessly integrate with the M7. This wireless microphone system comprises a receiver that connects to the smartphone while preserving the USB-C port functionality. The receiver is equipped with both USB-C and 3.5mm outputs, effectively adding a headphone jack to devices that lack this connection.
The mobile gimbal market has experienced substantial growth over the past decade, driven by manufacturersβ relentless pursuit of differentiation through innovative features. Hohemβs M7 model prioritises app independence and mechanical enhancements, aligning with practical user concerns while maintaining competitive pricing.
Furthermore, Hohem has confirmed the implementation of similar eye-tracking technology in its mirrorless camera gimbal lineup, including the MK2 model. This suggests the broader application of these tracking capabilities across their product range.
The Hohem iSteady M7 is currently available for a discounted price of $254, reduced from its original price of $299.
Do you use a gimbal with your mobile phone when filming? If so, do you have any experience working with gimbals from Hohem? Please share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
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Johnnie Behiri is a documentary filmmaker with more than three decades behind the camera: he learned the craft in daily television news gathering, filmed for Japan's public broadcaster NHK, and spent eight years shooting and editing for BBC News. He joined cinema5D in 2011 and has co-owned and co-run CineD and MZed ever since. Johnnie writes many of CineD's camera reviews, co-hosts our weekly Focus Check podcast, and heads CineD's manufacturer relationships and product development.