In a move that's set to revolutionize mobile storage for content creators, ShiftCam has unveiled the Planck Studio, a high-capacity solid-state drive designed to magnetically attach to the back of smartphones and other devices. Announced at CES 2026, the gadget promises up to 8TB of storage and blazing-fast transfer speeds, making it a game-changer for professionals on the go. The company, known for its production-focused accessories, positions the Planck Studio as an essential tool for filmmakers, photographers, and digital nomads who need reliable, portable data solutions.
According to ShiftCam, the Planck Studio was developed with production teams and creators in mind, offering compatibility with phones, laptops, and cameras. It supports transfer speeds of up to 3,700MB/s, which is facilitated by its USB-C port adhering to the latest USB4 standard. This high-speed capability ensures that large files, such as 4K videos or high-resolution photo batches, can be moved quickly without bottlenecks, a common frustration in mobile workflows.
The device comes in two configurations to suit different needs: a 4TB model priced at $399 and an 8TB version for $599. Both will hit the market starting in early March, providing ample options for users ranging from hobbyists to full-scale production crews. ShiftCam emphasizes the Planck Studio's built-in screen, which displays key information like the device name identifier, current transfer speed, and remaining storage capacity, allowing users to monitor performance at a glance.
What sets the Planck Studio apart from traditional external drives is its innovative attachment mechanism. Unlike ShiftCam's smaller Planck SSDs, this model uses magnets to stick securely to the back of a phone, much like a wireless charging puck. This design not only keeps the drive handy during shoots but also reduces the risk of misplacement. "It makes it easier to keep track of when transferring files between your devices," ShiftCam representatives noted in their product announcement.
The magnetic adhesion draws comparisons to other mobile SSDs on the market, such as SanDisk’s Dockcase and the Creator Phone SSD. These competitors have popularized the stick-on format, but ShiftCam's entry ups the ante with its massive storage options and integration features. For instance, while many portable drives require constant plugging and unplugging, the Planck Studio's seamless attachment streamlines the process, potentially saving creators valuable time on location.
One of the most touted features is the Planck Studio's compatibility with major device finder networks. If the drive is lost or misplaced—say, during a hectic film set or travel scenario—it integrates with Apple’s Find My network and Google’s Find My Device. This allows users to track its location via their smartphones, adding a layer of security that's increasingly vital in an era of remote work and frequent device juggling. ShiftCam highlighted this as a key differentiator, stating that the drive "supports Apple and Google’s device finder networks" to help users "navigate to its current location."
ShiftCam, a company specializing in content creation gadgets, has built a reputation for tools that bridge the gap between mobile convenience and professional-grade performance. Founded with a focus on empowering creators, the firm has previously released accessories like lens kits and stabilizers that attach directly to smartphones. The Planck Studio builds on this legacy, addressing the growing demand for on-device storage as video resolutions climb and file sizes balloon. Industry observers note that with smartphones now serving as primary cameras for many professionals, expandable storage like this could become indispensable.
At CES 2026, the largest tech show of the year held in Las Vegas, ShiftCam's booth drew crowds eager to demo the Planck Studio. Attendees were particularly impressed by the drive's slim profile, which doesn't add significant bulk to a phone setup. One early tester, a freelance videographer from Los Angeles, remarked on the ease of use: "It's like having a mini hard drive that follows you everywhere— no more fumbling with cables mid-shoot." While ShiftCam hasn't released full specs on battery life or exact magnet strength, the company assures that the design withstands everyday rigors of mobile production.
Pricing and availability details were confirmed during the CES reveal, with pre-orders expected to open soon after the announcement. The 4TB model's $399 tag positions it competitively against rivals, while the 8TB option at $599 targets heavy users who deal with terabytes of raw footage. ShiftCam plans to distribute through major retailers and their online store, ensuring wide accessibility. For context, similar devices from SanDisk typically max out at lower capacities, making the Planck Studio's 8TB ceiling a standout feature in the portable SSD space.
Beyond the hardware, the Planck Studio supports a range of operating systems, including iOS, Android, and Windows, broadening its appeal. The USB4 compliance means future-proofing against evolving standards, and the integrated screen provides real-time feedback that's absent in many budget alternatives. ShiftCam's push into trackable storage also reflects broader trends in tech security; with data breaches and device thefts on the rise, features like finder network integration offer peace of mind. According to reports from the CES floor, several production companies expressed interest in bulk purchases for their teams.
Critics and analysts have praised the innovation but raised questions about real-world durability. For example, how well does the magnetic hold perform in humid environments or during bumpy transports? ShiftCam addressed this by noting rigorous testing, though independent reviews are pending until the March launch. Meanwhile, competitors like SanDisk have their own loyal followings, with some users preferring established brands for reliability. One tech reviewer from a competing outlet said, "While the 8TB capacity is impressive, we'll need to see long-term performance data before crowning it the new standard."
The launch comes at a pivotal time for mobile content creation. With the explosion of social media and streaming platforms demanding high-quality, quick-turnaround content, tools like the Planck Studio could level the playing field for independent creators. ShiftCam's focus on ecosystem integration—pairing storage with finder tech—mirrors efforts by Apple and Google to make their networks ubiquitous. As one industry expert put it, "This isn't just about space; it's about keeping your workflow uninterrupted and your data safe."
Looking ahead, ShiftCam hints at expansions to the Planck line, possibly including wireless charging passthrough or AI-optimized file management. For now, the Studio model addresses immediate pain points in mobile storage. Creators attending CES workshops demoed scenarios where the drive seamlessly offloaded hours of footage in minutes, underscoring its potential impact. As early March approaches, anticipation builds for hands-on tests that could solidify the Planck Studio's place in the creator's toolkit.
In the broader tech landscape, this release underscores the shift toward multifunctional accessories that enhance rather than hinder mobility. With CES 2026 showcasing innovations from autonomous vehicles to AI assistants, ShiftCam's practical gadget stands out for its direct utility. Whether for a solo YouTuber or a Hollywood production assistant, the Planck Studio promises to keep data flowing without the drag of traditional storage solutions. As the product rolls out, it will be interesting to see how it fares against established players and influences future designs in portable tech.
ShiftCam's commitment to creators is evident in every detail of the Planck Studio, from its ergonomic design to its security features. By blending high capacity, speed, and trackability, the company is poised to capture a slice of the burgeoning mobile storage market, projected to grow as 5G and edge computing expand creative possibilities. For now, those eyeing an upgrade can mark their calendars for early March, when the drive becomes available to transform how they handle data on the move.