AOI has released a new addition to its Q1-series of Ultra Compact Strobes, which includes the UCS-Q1 and UCS-Q1 RC. The UCS-Q1i was unveiled at the recent Malaysia International Dive Exhibition (MIDE) in Kuala Lumpur. According to the press release (see below), the new fiber-optically triggered strobe “combines the best features from the UCS-Q1 and UIS-P1”—though the UCS-Q1i features a straight flash tube as opposed to the circular flash tube of the UIS-P1.
Depth-rated to 60 meters (200 feet), the UCS-Q1i boasts a guide number (GN) of 22, a color temperature of 5600K, and an 85° beam angle with diffusor attached. AOI claims a recycle time of just 0.85s after a full power dump and 1,500 flashes at full power. The strobe features the same built-in 700-lumen continuous light found on the UCS-Q1 and UCS-Q1 RC, and also runs on a pair of 18650 Li-ion rechargeable batteries (3,100mAh).
Like the UIS-P1, the new strobe features InTeLi mode, which is designed to ensure that TTL exposure is “accurate and consistent” across different camera systems. The mode encompasses support for Sony TTL and i-Macro, OM System/Olympus RC TTL and i-Macro, and TTL HSS and M-HSS. In manual mode, output can be adjusted in six increments, from full power to 1/64 power.
Priced at $500, the AOI Q1i strobe is available now—in black or white finish—from retailers such as Backscatter.
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PRESS RELEASE
AOl Ltd Unveils the UCS-Q1i at the Malaysia International Dive Exhibition 2025
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – June 13, 2025 – AOI Ltd is proud to announce the official launch of the UCS-Q1i, its latest groundbreaking underwater strobe, at the Malaysia International Dive Exhibition (MIDE) 2025, held in Kuala Lumpur from June 13 to 15, 2025. As one of the premier events for the diving industry, MIDE provides the perfect stage to showcase the UCS-Q1i. a powerful and compact strobe that redefines underwater lighting technology Building on the success of the UCS-Q1 and UCS-Q1RC, AOI Ltd continues to elevate underwater imaging innovation. The award-winning UCS-Q1 has been embraced by beginners for its advanced features, often found in more premium models. The UCS-Q1RC introduced TTL integration for OM System cameras, creating a seamless experience in both performance and design. AOI Ltd further solidified its reputation for pioneering technology with the UIS-P1, which introduced AOl In TeLi™ Mode, a next-generation system optimized specifically for underwater photography.
Now, with the debut of the UCS-Q1i, AOI Ltd combines the best features from the UCS-Q1 and UIS-P1. The UCS-Q1i inherits AOl In TeLi™ Mode, ensuring accurate and consistent TTL exposure across multiple camera systems, surpassing traditional S-TTL or TTL capabilities. This advanced mode intelligently adapts to camera settings, delivering enhanced precision in exposure control.
Additionally, AOl In TeLi™ Mode includes i-Macro Mode, refining macro flash photography by optimizing light output for close-up shooting. Underwater photographers can capture fine details with stunning clarity, ensuring beautifully lit macro shots. With support for Sony TTL and i-Macro, OM System RC TTL and i-Macro, and TTL HSS and M-HSS Mode, AOl InTeLi™ Mode sets a new benchmark in underwater strobe technology.
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Most importantly, the UCS-Q11 remains the brightest strobe in its segment with an impressive Guide Number 22 (GN22) at ISO100, delivering powerful illumination underwater. Like the UIS-P1, the UCS-Q1i supports High Speed Shutter (HSS) compatibility with Sony cameras, allowing photographers to freeze fast-moving underwater scenes with precision and clarity.
“MIDE 2025 is the perfect platform to introduce the UCS-Q1i to the world,” said Victor Tsui, Managing Director of AOI Ltd. “With AOl InTeLiT Mode, we’re bringing a smarter, more refined approach to TTL exposure and macro photography, ensuring underwater photographers get consistent, high-quality results every time.”
Visitors at MIDE 2025 will have the first opportunity to see the UCS-Q1i in action, explore its features, and engage with AOl Ltd’s experts. The launch event promises exciting demonstrations and insights into how this cutting-edge strobe can transform underwater photography experiences.
For more details about the UCS-Q1i and AOI Ltd’s latest innovations, visit www.aoi-uw.com or contact info@aoi-uw.com
