The Orion Video System app turns your iPad into an HDMI monitor with retro vibes

Imagine being able to transform your iPad into a retro-inspired HDMI monitor. With the new Orion Video System app, created by the developers of the popular Halide camera app, you can now connect HDMI devices like game consoles to your iPad and view them using a video capture card connected via USB-C. Not only can you play console games on your iPad, but you can also monitor your camera on a production set and enjoy other exciting features. This free app, with its modern design interface and nostalgic fonts and menus, will take you back to the days of VCR clock-setting struggles. And if you want to enhance your experience even further, you can upgrade to the premium version for just $4.99, unlocking features such as AI-powered 4K upscaling and a CRT filter for a vintage gaming feel. Whether you’re a fan of retro vibes or simply looking to expand your iPad’s functionality, the Orion Video System app is definitely worth a try.

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The Orion Video System app

The Orion Video System app is an innovative application that allows you to connect HDMI devices to your iPad. Developed by Lux, the creators of the popular Halide camera app, this app opens up a world of possibilities for iPad users. With its retro-themed design and user-friendly interface, the Orion Video System app is sure to become a favorite among users. Best of all, it is available for free on the App Store, giving you access to its incredible features without any cost.

Using the Orion Video System app

The Orion Video System app offers a range of exciting features that enhance your iPad experience. One of the most notable features is the ability to play console games on your iPad. By connecting your game console to your iPad using a video capture card, you can enjoy your favorite games with the convenience of a portable screen. This opens up a whole new world of gaming possibilities, allowing you to play on the go or simply enjoy a larger screen for a more immersive gaming experience.

In addition to gaming, the Orion Video System app also allows you to monitor your camera on a production set. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just enjoy capturing moments with your camera, this feature is incredibly useful. You can easily connect compatible webcams and video capture cards to your iPad, giving you a real-time view of your camera’s perspective. This not only helps you capture the perfect shot but also streamlines your workflow by eliminating the need for separate monitors.

Furthermore, the app enables you to connect compatible webcams and video capture cards to your iPad. This means you can use your iPad as a display for a wide range of devices, expanding its functionality beyond what is typically expected. Whether you want to connect a webcam for video conferencing or a video capture card for capturing gameplay footage, the Orion Video System app makes it effortless to connect and utilize these devices.

Enhancing the overall experience, the Orion Video System app features a retro-themed design. From its fonts to its menus, the app pays homage to the ’80s and ’90s, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era. This adds a unique and enjoyable aesthetic to the app, making it not only functional but also visually appealing. Whether you’re a fan of retro design or simply looking for something different, the Orion Video System app offers a refreshing alternative to conventional app designs.

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iPadOS 17 brings UVC support

One of the key factors that enable the Orion Video System app to function is the UVC support in iPadOS 17. UVC, which stands for USB video class, is a standard that allows USB devices to transmit video data. With iPadOS 17, Apple has opened the floodgates for UVC support on iPad devices, paving the way for the Orion Video System app and other similar applications.

This UVC support means that you can now connect sub-$20 video capture cards to your USB-C iPad models. This opens up a world of possibilities for affordable video capture and display options. Whether you’re on a budget or simply looking for a cost-effective solution, the Orion Video System app paired with a sub-$20 video capture card can provide you with a seamless HDMI connection.

However, it’s important to note that UVC support is limited to USB-C iPad models. iPads with Lightning ports do not support UVC, so it’s essential to ensure that your device is compatible before attempting to use the Orion Video System app or any similar applications.

Orion Pro upgrade

While the free version of the Orion Video System app offers incredible functionality on its own, Lux also provides an upgrade option for users who want additional features. The Orion Pro upgrade is priced at $4.99 and unlocks a range of premium features.

One notable feature that comes with the Orion Pro upgrade is “AI-Powered” 4K upscaling for video inputs. This advanced upscaling technology enhances the resolution and quality of your video inputs, providing a sharper and more detailed display. Whether you’re watching movies, playing games, or editing videos, this feature ensures that you can enjoy the content at its best possible quality.

Additionally, the Orion Pro upgrade offers a CRT filter for old-school gaming and VHS playback vibes. This nostalgic effect adds a touch of authenticity to your gaming experience, emulating the look and feel of playing games on vintage consoles. It’s a delightful feature for gamers seeking a trip down memory lane or those who simply appreciate the aesthetics of retro gaming.

Lastly, the Orion Pro upgrade allows you to adjust picture settings to personalize your viewing experience. With this feature, you can fine-tune the brightness, contrast, and color settings to suit your preferences and create the perfect visual environment. Whether you prefer vivid and vibrant colors or a more subdued and natural look, the Orion Pro upgrade puts you in control of your viewing experience.

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Early UVC capabilities

Before the release of iPadOS 17, some small developers had the opportunity to test the UVC capabilities of the iPad. One such developer, Jingcheng Tang, tested the UVC capability with an app that can display HDMI video using a common capture card. This app later became Genki Studio, a fully released application that showcases the potential of UVC on the iPad.

Additionally, Federico Viticci at MacStories explored the early UVC-capable app and even used a Game Boy Camera in a FaceTime call. This demonstrates the versatility and creativity that UVC support brings to the iPad, allowing for innovative uses beyond conventional video display.

Other similar apps

While the Orion Video System app is a standout in its field, it’s not the only app that allows for displaying HDMI inputs on the iPad. There are several other apps available on the App Store that offer similar functionality, catering to different needs and preferences.

Capturino is one such app that is specifically designed for professional camera monitoring. It offers advanced features and tools tailored to the needs of photographers and filmmakers. If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution for camera monitoring, Capturino is worth exploring.

However, what sets the Orion Video System app apart is its retro-themed design. While other apps may focus primarily on functionality, the Orion Video System app goes the extra mile to provide a visually appealing and nostalgic experience. The retro fonts and menus add a layer of enjoyment to the app, making it stand out among the competition.

Furthermore, the Orion Video System app offers a unique unboxing experience. From the moment you download the app to the first time you open it, Lux has ensured that every step of the process is memorable. This attention to detail and commitment to delivering an exceptional user experience sets the Orion Video System app apart from its counterparts.

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Conclusion and user feedback

The Orion Video System app has garnered positive reviews from users who have embraced its unique features. Many users express nostalgia for the ’80s and ’90s, and appreciate the retro-themed design that the app offers. This design choice not only adds to the visual appeal but also enhances the overall experience of using the app.

The ability to play console games on the iPad has generated excitement among gamers. The convenience of being able to use a portable monitor for gaming opens up new possibilities for enjoying console games on the go or with a larger display. Users find it particularly enjoyable to reminisce about old gaming experiences and recreate the look and feel of gaming on vintage consoles.

The app’s camera monitoring capabilities have received positive feedback from photographers and filmmakers. Being able to monitor cameras in real-time on the iPad offers convenience and efficiency in various production settings. It streamlines workflows and eliminates the need for additional monitors, making it an invaluable tool for professionals in the industry.

Additionally, users appreciate the unique unboxing experience that the Orion Video System app provides. Lux has taken care to ensure that every interaction with the app, from installation to first use, is enjoyable and memorable. This attention to detail adds to the overall appeal of the app and creates a positive impression on users.

About the author

This comprehensive article was written by Umar Shakir, a news writer at The Verge. With a background in IT support spanning over 15 years, Umar brings a wealth of technical knowledge to his writing. He has a passion for electric vehicles and USB-C devices, and enjoys exploring and sharing the latest advancements in technology.

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Ethics and disclosure

As with any media outlet, it is important to address ethics and disclose any relevant information. Vox Media, the parent company of The Verge, may earn a commission through Verge links. This helps support the work of the publication and ensure its independence and sustainability. The Orion Video System app, however, does not contain any ads or tracking, providing a clean and uninterrupted user experience. Lux takes user privacy seriously and adheres to strict privacy policies and terms.

For further information on the terms and privacy notice, users can refer to the app’s terms of service and privacy policy. Additionally, Lux follows the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service to ensure the highest standards of user privacy and data protection.

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In conclusion, the Orion Video System app is an exciting addition to the iPad ecosystem, offering a range of features and a nostalgic design. Whether you’re a gamer, photographer, or simply looking for a unique app experience, the Orion Video System app provides a user-friendly solution. With its retro-themed design, UVC support, and additional features available through the Orion Pro upgrade, the app offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for iPad users.

Source: https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/20/23882461/orion-video-system-app-ipad-os-uvc-hdmi-monitor