Is your Hohem iSteady Mobile won’t connect to Galaxy S9? You’re not alone! Many smartphone users, especially those with an older but still capable device like the Samsung Galaxy S9, sometimes run into compatibility or connection hiccups with their gimbals. It can be incredibly frustrating when you’re ready to capture that perfect shot, and your trusted phone stabilizer just isn’t cooperating.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help you troubleshoot common issues and explore some fantastic alternative Hohem gimbals that offer enhanced compatibility and features, ensuring your mobile videography is always smooth and professional. Let’s dive in!
Why Your Hohem iSteady Mobile Might Not Be Connecting
Before we look at new gear, let’s quickly troubleshoot why your Hohem iSteady Mobile won’t connect to Galaxy S9. Often, these issues can be resolved with a few simple steps:
- Bluetooth Reset: Make sure Bluetooth is on for both your Galaxy S9 and the Hohem iSteady Mobile. Try toggling Bluetooth off and on again on your phone. On the gimbal, turn it off, then on. Sometimes a fresh start is all it takes.
- Forget Device: Go to your Galaxy S9’s Bluetooth settings, find your Hohem iSteady Mobile in the list of previously paired devices, and select “Forget” or “Unpair.” Then, try pairing it again from scratch.
- Hohem Joy App: Ensure you have the latest version of the Hohem Joy app installed on your Galaxy S9. Connection and functionality often rely heavily on the app. Check for app updates in the Google Play Store.
- Firmware Update: Your gimbal’s firmware might be outdated. Connect your Hohem iSteady Mobile to the Hohem Joy app (if you can, even intermittently) and check for any available firmware updates. Outdated firmware can cause all sorts of compatibility issues.
- Charge Levels: A low battery on either your phone or the gimbal can sometimes prevent proper Bluetooth connection. Make sure both devices are sufficiently charged.
- Interference: Try connecting in a different location to rule out any wireless interference from other devices.
If, after these steps, your Hohem iSteady Mobile won’t connect to Galaxy S9 reliably, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Hohem has released several advanced gimbals since the original iSteady Mobile, offering improved stability, smarter features, and broader compatibility. Here are five top Hohem gimbals that could be your next best companion for the Galaxy S9 and beyond.
Top Hohem Gimbals to Elevate Your Mobile Videography
hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus Gimbal Stabilizer
The Hohem iSteady X3 SE Plus is a fantastic entry point for anyone looking to step up their smartphone videography without breaking the bank. What makes it stand out is its incredibly portable, foldable design coupled with a detachable remote controller, giving you the flexibility to capture shots from a distance. It’s built for ease of use, making it perfect for beginners while still packing advanced features like Hohem’s iSteady 8.0 anti-shake technology, ensuring super smooth footage no matter where your adventures take you.
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Key Features:
- Innovative detachable remote controller for up to 32 feet range.
- Advanced iSteady 8.0 anti-shake system for ultra-smooth footage.
- Built-in 8-inch extendable selfie stick for dynamic angles.
- Ultra-portable and foldable design (weighs only 0.85 lbs).
- Hohem Joy App with AI tracking and gesture control.
- Long 11-hour battery life with quick 2-hour charging.
- Beginner-friendly and one-hand operation for easy landscape/portrait switching.
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Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and compact.
- Detachable remote offers great versatility for solo shooting.
- Excellent battery life for extended use.
- Very easy to learn and operate, ideal for new users.
- Integrated extension rod adds creative possibilities.
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Cons:
- Payload capacity (0.66 lbs) might limit use with very heavy phone setups (e.g., external lenses).
- iSteady 8.0 is not Hohem’s latest stabilization tech.
- Extension rod needs careful handling to prevent deformation.
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User Impressions: Users love its compact size and how easily it fits into a small bag, making it a go-to for travel vloggers. The remote control is frequently praised for its convenience, and many beginners find it very intuitive, allowing them to produce professional-looking videos quickly. Some users note the importance of retracting the extension rod to maintain its integrity.
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hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, Phone Gimbal…
Stepping up the game, the Hohem iSteady M7 introduces a new level of control and precision, making it a dream for serious content creators. Its most compelling feature is the detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen controller, which not only allows remote operation but also provides real-time previews and AI-powered subject tracking. Combined with the magnetic AI tracker and the robust iSteady 9.0 anti-shake technology, this gimbal ensures your subjects are always in focus and your footage is butter-smooth, even in the most dynamic scenarios.
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Key Features:
- Detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen controller for remote control, real-time preview, and AI tracking.
- Magnetic AI tracker with 100% enhanced AI resolution for precise subject following.
- iSteady 9.0 anti-shake technology with 3-axis 360° rotation for professional stability.
- Impressive 12-hour battery life with convenient reverse charging capability.
- Built-in 7.6-inch extendable aluminum rod for dynamic perspectives.
- Integrated 360 RGB lighting with CCT and RGB modes for customizable illumination.
- 1.1 lbs payload capacity supporting accessories like external lenses and mics.
- Universal smartphone compatibility (fits 95% of phones, 2.28″ to 3.54″).
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Pros:
- Advanced AI tracking and touchscreen control offer unparalleled precision.
- Superior iSteady 9.0 stabilization for incredibly smooth footage.
- Long battery life and reverse charging are excellent for all-day shoots.
- Integrated RGB lighting adds professional production value.
- High payload and wide compatibility mean more flexibility for diverse phone setups and accessories.
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Cons:
- Higher price point compared to entry-level models.
- Advanced features might have a steeper learning curve for absolute beginners.
- Magnetic AI tracker has specific gesture/tracking distance limitations.
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User Impressions: Filmmakers and vloggers consistently praise the iSteady M7 for its robust build and the game-changing AI tracking, stating it’s incredibly reliable for solo shoots. The touchscreen remote and reverse charging are frequently highlighted as indispensable features that significantly enhance workflow during long filming sessions.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, 3-Axis Gimbal…
This iteration of the Hohem iSteady M7 continues to impress with its focus on intuitive control and versatile lighting, making it a solid choice for mobile content creators. The detachable remote with a 1.4-inch full-color touchscreen provides not only convenient control but also real-time preview, giving you immediate feedback on your shots. Its professional orthogonal 3-axis design ensures complete freedom of movement with 360° infinite pan rotation, perfect for capturing dynamic and sweeping cinematic shots.
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Key Features:
- Detachable remote with a 1.4-inch full-color touchscreen for intuitive control and real-time preview.
- Robust built-in extension pole for creative high and low-angle shooting.
- Integrated RGB and CCT fill light for flexible front and rear shot illumination, controllable remotely.
- Professional orthogonal 3-axis design with 360° infinite pan rotation and 325° tilt range.
- 12-hour battery life with reverse charging support to power your phone.
- Wide compatibility with popular iPhone and Android models (e.g., iPhone 16-11, Huawei P50-P20, Samsung Galaxy S22-S20).
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Pros:
- Excellent touchscreen remote for comprehensive control.
- Versatile built-in lighting greatly enhances video quality in various conditions.
- Exceptional range of motion with 360° pan for creative freedom.
- Dependable 12-hour battery life with crucial reverse charging.
- Strong compatibility with a wide array of smartphones.
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Cons:
- Specific AI tracking features (like the magnetic module) are not explicitly listed in this description, unlike other M7 versions.
- Might be a slight learning curve for users new to remote control and extensive lighting adjustments.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate the seamless integration of the remote and the light, finding them incredibly useful for setting up shots on the fly. Many highlight the gimbal’s smooth movements and the ability to capture complex shots with ease, praising its reliability for both casual and serious use.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphone, Magnetic…
This Hohem iSteady M7 variant places a strong emphasis on its upgraded on-device AI tracking and enhanced payload capacity, making it a powerhouse for dynamic content creation. The AI tracking is not just for people; it can follow pets, buildings, and even cars, all while being compatible with your phone’s native camera and live streaming apps. Coupled with its generous 500g payload and multiple expansion ports, this gimbal is ready for a full professional setup, from external lenses to microphones.
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Key Features:
- Upgraded On-Device AI: Tracks any subject (people, pets, buildings, cars) with native camera and app compatibility, features new safety locks.
- Detachable Touchscreen Remote: Double-tap or drag-select tracking target with a 10-meter control range.
- Upgraded 500g Payload: Supports professional accessories via three expansion ports (lenses, mics, fill lights).
- 360 Lighting Colors: Integrated RGB and CCT fill light, remotely controllable for brightness and color temperature.
- Built-in Extension Pole: Sturdy support for high and low-angle shots, including aerial and pet’s eye views.
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Pros:
- Highly versatile and advanced AI tracking works with native camera.
- Increased payload capacity allows for more robust accessory setups.
- Intuitive touchscreen remote simplifies target selection and control.
- Comprehensive and remotely controllable lighting system.
- Built-in extension pole adds significant creative flexibility.
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Cons:
- The focus on advanced features might make it seem overkill for very casual users.
- Managing multiple accessories might require additional setup time.
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User Impressions: Reviewers are particularly impressed with the expanded AI tracking capabilities, noting its accuracy and versatility across various subjects. The higher payload is a big hit with those who use additional camera gear, appreciating the ability to fully customize their mobile filming rig without stability concerns.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
hohem iSteady M7 Gimbal Stabilizer for iPhone, 3-Axis…
Rounding out our list of top Hohem gimbals, this iSteady M7 model brings together the best of all worlds, offering a comprehensive solution for almost any mobile videography need. It features a detachable touchscreen remote with quick target selection, a magnetic AI tracker that works with native camera apps, and the latest iSteady 9.0 stabilization for unmatched anti-shake performance. With an upgraded 500g payload, integrated RGB/CCT fill light, and 360° infinite pan, it’s designed to deliver professional-grade results effortlessly.
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Key Features:
- Detachable 1.4-inch touchscreen remote for 10-meter control, double-tap/drag-select tracking, and real-time preview (up to 23′).
- Magnetic AI Tracker: Enhanced AI tracks anything (people, pets, cars) with native cam and app compatibility.
- Built-in 7.5″ extension pole for diverse creative shots.
- iSteady 9.0 Stabilization: AI-powered anti-shake adapts to your movement speed.
- Upgraded 500g Payload: Compatible with most smartphones (58-90mm width), enhanced motors for large and foldable phones.
- RGB and CCT Fill Light: 2W output, 360 color options, 2700-6500K CCT, controllable via remote.
- 360° Infinite Pan Rotation: Professional orthogonal 3-axis design with 325° wide tilt range.
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Pros:
- Combines advanced AI tracking with intuitive touchscreen control.
- Top-tier iSteady 9.0 stabilization ensures cinematic smoothness.
- Robust payload capacity and wide clamp fit nearly all modern smartphones.
- Comprehensive lighting system with remote control enhances low-light and creative shots.
- Full 360° pan rotation provides ultimate creative freedom.
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Cons:
- With so many features, it might overwhelm users who only need basic stabilization.
- Premium features typically come with a higher price point.
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User Impressions: This particular M7 model is highly regarded for its all-encompassing feature set. Users rave about the “set it and forget it” nature of the AI tracking and the incredible smoothness provided by the iSteady 9.0. The integrated light and the ability to control everything from the remote are frequently cited as highlights, simplifying complex shots.
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Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Conclusion
If your Hohem iSteady Mobile won’t connect to Galaxy S9, first try the troubleshooting steps. Often, a simple reset or app update can fix the problem. However, if you’re consistently facing issues or simply looking to upgrade, Hohem offers a fantastic range of modern gimbals that bring cutting-edge features and improved compatibility to the table. From the ultra-portable iSteady X3 SE Plus for beginners to the feature-packed iSteady M7 series with advanced AI tracking and integrated lighting, there’s a Hohem gimbal designed to meet every content creator’s needs. Investing in a newer model can drastically enhance your mobile videography experience, ensuring your Samsung Galaxy S9 (or any other smartphone) captures stunning, stable footage every time.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why won’t my Hohem iSteady connect via Bluetooth to my Galaxy S9?
A1: Common reasons include Bluetooth being off on either device, low battery, an outdated Hohem Joy app, outdated gimbal firmware, or interference. Try restarting both devices, “forgetting” the gimbal in your phone’s Bluetooth settings and re-pairing, and ensuring both the app and firmware are updated.
Q2: How do I pair my Hohem gimbal with my Samsung Galaxy S9?
A2: First, ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your Galaxy S9 and your Hohem gimbal is powered on. Open the Hohem Joy app. The app should automatically scan for and detect your gimbal. Follow the on-screen prompts within the app to connect. If it doesn’t connect automatically, you might need to manually select it from the app’s device list.
Q3: Is the “Hohem Joy” app necessary for my gimbal to work?
A3: While some basic functions (like manual stabilization) might work without the app, the Hohem Joy app is crucial for unlocking your gimbal’s full potential. It’s used for firmware updates, calibration, accessing advanced shooting modes (like AI tracking or gesture control), and adjusting settings. We highly recommend using it.
Q4: My gimbal isn’t stabilizing properly, what should I do?
A4: Ensure your phone is properly balanced in the gimbal clamp before turning it on. If it’s still shaky, try calibrating the gimbal through the Hohem Joy app. Also, check for any firmware updates, as these often include performance improvements and bug fixes for stabilization.
Q5: Can I use a Hohem gimbal with other Android phones, not just the Galaxy S9?
A5: Yes, Hohem gimbals are generally compatible with a wide range of Android smartphones, as well as iPhones. Compatibility is usually determined by the phone’s size and weight, which can vary by model. Always check the gimbal’s specifications for supported phone dimensions and maximum payload capacity to ensure your specific phone model will fit and function correctly.
Q6: How do I update my Hohem gimbal’s firmware?
A6: Firmware updates are typically managed through the Hohem Joy app. Connect your gimbal to your phone via Bluetooth within the app. Navigate to the settings or “Firmware Update” section within the app. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions. Ensure your gimbal has sufficient battery before starting an update.
Q7: What does “AI tracking” mean in a gimbal like the iSteady M7?
A7: AI tracking (Artificial Intelligence tracking) is a feature that allows the gimbal to automatically follow a designated subject (person, pet, object) within the frame. Once activated, the gimbal’s motors will adjust to keep the subject centered or in the desired position as it moves, freeing you from manually panning and tilting. This is especially useful for solo content creators or dynamic shots.
