Category: 360 camera

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Turn Your iPhone Into a 360 Camera With FusionLens 2.0

Smartphones have come to dominate photography, with companies more than ever viewing the camera as an essential part of the device. The rise of 360-degree photography meant that consumers had to actually buy cameras again, but there are innovators like FusionLens looking to merge those two worlds. Having launched a smartphone attachment last year, the company is back with a Kickstarter campaign for its latest design FusionLens 2.0.

FusionLens 2.0

A dual lens camera attachment for the iPhone X, XS, XS Max and XR, FusionLens 2.0 allows mobile photographers to shoot in a range of settings, from wide-angle to 360-degrees. The wide-angle feature turns the iPhone lens into an 8mm camera, while its Anamorphic format is a cinematography technique offering a 23:9 aspect ratio.

A clip-on system with each 30mm lens module providing 210° field of view (FOV), Fusion Lens was looking to raise HK$20,000 by the middle of January 2019. The campaign has already managed to raise almost HK$60,000 (approximately £6,000 GBP).

Early bird backing tiers are still available, with iPhone XR owners able to pre-order the FusionLens 2.0 for HK$392 (£39), while iPhone X/XS/XS Max owners can pre-order the device for HK$431 (£43). There’s also a Pro Kit, Travel Kit and Premium Kit available, adding a phone case, travel case for FusionLens 2.0 or both respectively.

Once the Kickstarter has been completed, FusionLens expects to start shipping to backers in March 2019. FusionLens 2.0

Alongside the FusionLens 2.0 attachment, there’s the additional app for all your control needs. Thanks to the advanced computational photography algorithm built into the app, users can change their shooting results without actually changing the lens.

“We never stop enhancing the product. We see great potential in computational photography technologies,” said Tim Lo, CEO of FusionLens in a statement. “There are a lot more interesting features coming to surprise our consumers.”

VRFocus will continue its coverage of the latest 360-degree cameras, reporting back with any further announcements from FusionLens.

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Insta360 Announces New ONE X Action Camera With 5.7K Video

Insta360 have announced what they are calling the ‘future of the action camera’ with the launch of their new ONE X 360-degree camera. This new 5.7K camera is capable of capturing full 360-degree video with groundbreaking stabilization and cinematic slow-mo to radically expand on what is possible with an action camera. This also means that it is a fantastic tool for those looking to create immersive virtual reality (VR) 360-degree experiences.

Insta360 One X

The Insta360 ONE X is designed to be more than just a standard 360-degree camera is is able to provide it’s user with more freedom and more creative possibility both during and after capture. By combining an unlimited field of view with gimbal-level stabilization and an all new high frames per second (FPS) shooting mode, the ONE X allows the user to control time and perspective that will benefits them in many different ways.

Of course the main start of the new Insta360 ONE X is the new 5.7K camera that records in 30 FPS along with 50 FPS in 4K and 100 FPS for 3K video. No matter the mode, users will be able to enjoy super-smooth action and be able to highlight key moments within their shots with ease. The camera also features an 18MP photo mode to capture images with superior image quality with impressive low-light performance.

Insta360 One X

The Insta360 ONE X also has a mobile app available for both iOS and Android which opens up even more features for users. This includes being able to edit footage with ease and even reframe and re-edit the best parts of a scene, creating cinematic clips that would never be possible with a traditional camera. On top of that, the ONE X has a new TimeShift feature that allows users to adjust the speed of different parts of a clip on the fly letting them highlight the best parts with slow-mo or even increased speed.

To make things even more appealing for users, the Insta360 ONE X is able to manually tweak image settings to always ensure the best shot is possible and is able to handle HDR photos, timelapses, hyperlapses, interval shooting and is able to go up against the elements thanks to a number of available cases as well.

There is plenty more that the Insta360 ONE X is capable off and you can learn more in the short video below or by heading over to the official website to pre-order as well with prices starting at £409.95 (GBP). VRFocus will be sure to bring you all the latest on Insta360 in the future so stay tuned for more.

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QooCam 360 Camera Begins Shipping to Kickstarter Backers

Having launched a Kickstarter crowd-funding campaign for its 360-degree camera the QooCam, Kandao Technology in May that saw success within hours, the team have now announced that deliveries have begun to early backers.

Anyone well versed in backing Kickstarter projects knows that not all of them are a success, even if funding goals have been achieved. VRFocus has seen this happen on a number of occasions, or for companies to announce delay after delay. Thankfully for those backing QooCam this hasn’t been the case, with the campaign keep to its August 2018 shipping date.

Entering the ever burgeoning field of 360-degree cameras, the QooCam offers a unique 3 lens system in a folding design. Users can either opt for the 360-mode which captures a full 360-degree image in 4K, or they can choose ‘Stereo Mode’ for a 180-degree image with more depth.

“We want to make QooCam a good fit for travel vlogging and daily life capturing, so we designed it to be light-weighted and flexible,” said Dan Chen, CEO of Kandao Technology in a statement.

QooCam Depth

The QooCam also comes with a range of other handy features besides the switchable design. It has built-in stabilisation software to ensure video’s look smooth and shake free. This can be activated using the iOS or Android app alongside other options such as Little Plant and Tap Direct.

Another interesting feature is the cameras depth-based visual processing. When in VR180 ‘Stereo Mode’ the device creates a depth map of an image. Users can then refocus the image creating a bokeh effect, or use the editor app to pan, crop and reedit the 180-degree image how they like.

If you missed the Kickstarter campaign the QooCam is currently available to order on Kandao’s website and Amazon, and will be able to purchase from distributors in U.S., Japan, Europe and China soon, priced at $399 USD. For any further updates, keep reading VRFocus.

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Underwater 8K Videos With Hydrus VR

One of the most challenging environments for capturing high-quality footage is underwater. Not only do you need a camera rig capable of withstanding the wet, high-pressure and variable temperatures of being underwater, but you also need the camera to be capable of capturing footage in poor lighting conditions. The Hydrus VR camera claims to offer all of these capabilities.

360-degree video is becoming one of the most popular ways for creators and audiences to become involved with virtual reality (VR) content, and the elusive beauty of the marine environment make it a compelling place to capture immersive footage.

The Hydrus VR is designed for professional filmmakers, and is capable of capture in 8K, standard 4K or stereoscopic 4K imagery, even in low light conditions. The unit consists of no less than ten cameras, eight in a horizontal circle plus two vertical cameras.

The device was developed b Marin Imagining Technology, also known as MI Tech. The Hydrus VR weights in a 74 pounds and has neutral salt water buoyancy, and is depth-rated for up to 300m, and can be connected to a metal control rod, or attached to an underwater robot.

The cameras inside the unit are Sony ultra-high sensitivity UMC-S3CA cameras, equipped with SLR magic lenses. The unit has storage capacity and battery life capable of recording for up to two hours continuously. Users can remotely monitor nine of the cameras in real-time during shooting.

The cameras in the Hydrus VR are capable of capturing video at an illumination level as low as 0.004 lux, something which is important for the many underwater areas which lack their own lighting sources.

“We are very excited to help tell interesting stories and work with our partners to create an unforgettable experience,” said MI Tech founder Evan Kovacs, “an experience that will make audiences feel inspired to cherish, save and protect — and even one day visit — these underwater environments.”

Further information on the Hydrus VR can be found on the MI Tech website. For future coverage of newly developed VR technology, keep checking back with VRFocus.

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Detu Max 3D 8K 360-Degree Camera Ends Kickstarter Campaign Over 900% Over Target

A Kickstarter campaign for a high-end virtual reality (VR) and 360-degree camera designed exclusively for the professional market easily attained its funding goals, and then quickly exceeded them. The campaign completed at the end of July after massively overshooting its initial target.

The initial funding goal was set at $20,000 (USD), a figure which was quickly met and then exceeded. Despite the high price of the device, support was strong, leading to the campaign ending on a funding total of $189,513, over 900% of the original goal.

The figure is regarded as particularly impressive considering the prices of the device, which put the super early bird kit at $2,199, while the standard Kickstarter price was $2,499, both of which represented a considerable saving on the standard retail price of $3,599.

Detu say that its new camera is an AI-powered 360-degree VR panoramic camera that comes equipped with true 3D capabilities. The latest version of the device incorporates 4G technology, allowing users to livestream footage while shooting outdoors.

The company have a fair amount of experience with producing 360-degree cameras, having previously released the F4, the Twin and the F4 Plus. Though the Detu Max is by far the most sophisticated of the devices the company has developed so far, the experience that Detu has with regards to this field is bound to be reassuring to Kickstarter backers.

According to Detu’s latest update, preparation is currently underway for mass production, and the devices are expected to begin shipping to backers in September 2018. It is expected that the Detu Max will go on commercial sale at some point after this, though a date for the commercial release has not yet been confirmed.

Further information on the product can be found on the Kickstarter page. As usual, VRFocus will keep you updated on the latest VR-related crowdfunding campaigns.

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Pro 3D 8K 360° VR Camera Detu MAX Sails Past Kickstarter Goal

Last month 360-degree camera specialist Detu launched a Kickstarter crowd-funding campaign for its latest top-of-the-range product, the Detu MAX. Designed purely for the professional market, being able to record in 3D at an 8K resolution, the Detu MAX has easily achieved its funding target with plenty of time to spare.

While more and more 360-degree films are being made and showcased at events like the Sundance Film Festival, Tribeca, and Sheffield Doc/Fest, the professional camera market has had its fair share of ups and downs. The biggest shock in recent years came when Nokia announced the discontinued support for its OZO camera, yet there are others looking to take its mantle, especially in the prosumer category.

Devices like the Vuze+ from Humaneyes Technologies, LucidCam and Red’s 180-degree, 8K, 3D collaboration, and the  Samsung 360 Round for example. And now there’s the Detu MAX, which looks to have gain enormous popularity since the Kickstarter launch as its $20,000 USD funding goal is now at $150,612 with just under two weeks left to go.

This isn’t a cheap spur of the moment pledge Detu is asking for either. With a device that’s offering 12K images, 8K videos and live streaming in 3D, the Super Early Bird Kit retails for $2,199 (of which there are some left), while the standard Kickstarter price is $2,499. That’s still going to be a significant saving over the normal retail price of $3,599, when the Detu MAX begins shipping in September 2018.

Putting down that much money on a Kickstarter campaign can seem like a gamble, especially if the company is unproven. Luckily this isn’t Detu’s first 360-degree camera with the Detu MAX being its fourth. Previously there’s been the F4, the Twin and most recently the F4 Plus, offering 8K video quality from four 200 degree fisheye lenses.

With the Kickstarter campaign due to end next week, if Detu posts any further updates about the Detu MAX, VRFocus will keep you posted.

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Report: 360-Degree Camera Market To Reach $1.5 Billion by 2023

Creating 360-degree video has become one of the most popular and accessible means for creators to become involved in creating virtual reality (VR) content. Not only individuals but brands, businesses, marketing and creative industries have all embraced the technology as a new means to engage with audiences. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, this trend is set to continue, leading to continued growth in the 360-degree camera market.

According to the report, the 360-degree camera market was valued at $347.7 million (USD) in 2017, and is expected to reach a value of $1,569 million (USD) by 2023, at a CAGR of 27.1% during the forecast period.

The 360-degree camera market comprises a large network of players who are involved in research and development, material suppliers, manufacturers, investors and distributors. Some of the biggest names in these areas include Samsung, Ricoh, GoPro, Insta360, LG electronics, Nikon, kokak and Xiaomi.

North America is expected to dominate the 360-degree camera market, in terms of value, throughout the forecast period. The projected growth of this market is attributed to high demand for cameras in various industries, including healthcare, automotive, industrial and consumer electronics.

The market for 360-degree cameras has been divided into several sectors in the report for easier analysis. Based on resolution, it has been divided into HD and UHD, with the UHD section expected to grow at a higher CAGR during the forecast period. This is due to the fast rate of innovation in this area hen compared to other photographic markets such as DSLR.

Based on camera type, the report has segmented the market into single and professional. The market for professional rated cameras is expected to grow at a high rate over the forecast period.

Further information, and the full text of the report, can be found on the MarketsandMarkets website. As usual, VRFocus will continue to bring you the latest developments in the VR industry.

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Detu Announces 3D 360 Degree Camera

An increasing number of companies and creators are taking to 360-degree video for a variety of uses. 360-degree camera specialists are continuing to provide for this market with the launch of a new, professional-grade AI-powered 360-degree and VR panoramic camera with 3D capabilities.

The Detu Max Camera is designed for professional photographers and VR content creators. The camera capture 12K still images, 8K videos and have both wired and wireless livestreaming capabilities.

The AI chip in the device allows for the creation of real 3D VR images and allows for real-time face tracking to capture realistic 3D portraits. The device has a deep learning algorithm that selects and stitches together the videos and images without need for external software or requiring the device to be connected to a PC.

The camera can be connected to a PC using an Ethernet cable, or wireless streaming using 5G and 2.4G dual wi-fi. It can be streamed directly to YouTube, Facebook and other 360-degree platforms. The device also had HDR imaging which means images are clear in particularly dark or bright areas, and a 6-axis gyro anti-shaking system.

For sound capture, the Detu Max camera has four built-in microphones. The design of the camera uses a metal case to dissipate heat and only five buttons on the outside for a more minimal design. The battery is a 4800mAh lithium-ion battery, which can be swapped out for long shooting.

Dennis Chen, CEO of Detu US, said: “We created the MAX for professional photographers and video creators to capture true 3D VR content easily. We saw a need for a smarter professional grade camera and made the MAX to fit that need with the integrated AI chip. Whether using it to live stream an event, or photograph 360° images – the MAX has you covered with perfect clarity.”

A Kickstarter campaign for the device has been launched, and further details can be found on the Kickstarter page. Further coverage of new VR and 360-degree devices and accessories will be here on VRFocus.

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Wunder360 Cameras Launches With New Imaging Technology

Virtual reality (VR) imaging specialist, Wunder360, have revealed their new 360-degree camera which includes a number of key features such as an all new view pilot, point-to-frame feature for effortless editing, sharing and storage. All of this in a pocket sized, light weight model offering users a compact and affordable 360-degree camera.

Wunder360

Featuring a host of features to enable effortless photographs and cinematic videos, users will find they have a lot of creative power in their hands thanks to the Wunder360. Innovative on-board stitching technology means that there is no need for any post-production software as the device is able to stitch two fish eye images together with just the click of a button.

The Wunder360 comes with a standard 1/4 inch socket allowing for easy connection with selfie sticks. For those looking to post a lot onto social media, there is even a Wunder360 App and 5G WiFi band that allows footage to be live streamed to Facebook or YouTube quickly and easily, direct from the camera using a mobile device.

Wunder360

Integrated into the Wunder360 is ViewPilot and SmartTrack software that offers a unique ‘shoot first, frame later’ style of filming, allowing for users to easy reframe images and share their 360-degree and standard video footage with ease. Users capture the whole of the subject with the high quality camera and then reframe it as they wish, choosing the angle of view and then scrolling the timeline to tag various angles and turn them into a seamless, professional shot. All of this is possible thanks to the power of the Wunder360 which even allows for users to follow an object within the frame, leaving the app to automatically generate a video clip which keeps it within the centre of the frame.

The Wunder360 is able to produce 3K videos at 30fps, 1080p videos at 60fps and 4K photographs. The inbuilt 9 Axis Gyro Stabilization system means that 360-degree video footage is smooth and shake-free every time for professional results.

The Wunder360 is available to order now with the camera available via an official Amazon store for £169.00 (GBP). For more on Wunder360 in the future, keep reading VRFocus.

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NCTech Launches The iSTAR Pulsar Virtual Data Capture System

Data is big business. If you’re not sure how big, just aswk yourself how many emails you’ve had relating to GDPR in the run-up to that regulation coming in. Understanding how to utilise virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) is also big business, but in another way. Since there is still much to explore and understand. 

iSTAR Pulsar - logoBritish company NCTech, based in Edinburgh, are taking these ideas and expanding upon then, looking to aid in the creation and access of virtual worlds and by providing 360 degree reality imaging systems to streamline workflow of image documentation that can even be used in a remote setting. Their latest effort in this area has been the introduction of a brand new virtual data capture system designed for capture on the move. It’s called the iSTAR Pulsar, and it’s out now.

“iSTAR Pulsar is designed to capture 360 degree data while mounted on a vehicle, drone or on foot. The system is designed for ease of use and does not require any photography experience or even a computer to operate. The iSTAR Pulsar app provides the ability to plan routes, as well as to view and share content online.” The company say in a press release. “iSTAR Pulsar is designed specifically for the task of capturing moving 360 degree data and was developed in association with Sony and Intel. The system can be used in a range of industrial and smart city applications.”

Product details are listed as follows:

  • Unparalleled 11K spherical resolution defines iSTAR Pulsar at almost twice the pixel resolution of standard 8K spherical systems, delivering a 60.5 megapixel panoramic image.
  • Pre-calibration to sub-pixel level combines with an advanced depth analysis algorithm ensures the most accurate panoramic stitch possible in a mobile platform.
  • Optimised for mobile platforms, iSTAR Pulsar adjusts capture rate during processing to provide a consistent distance interval spacing, minimising data storage and processing requirements.  Weighted metering analysis ensures zones of high interest are perfectly exposed.
  • Fully automatic post-processing pipeline includes an optional automatic horizon stabilization feature to rectify any pitch and roll induced when capturing on foot.
  • Rugged design, weather resilient and shockproof, with built-in high accuracy GPS and IMU sensors to ensure effortless direct integration to GIS systems.
  • Advanced symmetric and asymmetric encryption technologies ensure end-to-end data security from capture to delivery.

NCTech showcased the iSTAR Pulsar earlier this week at the Geo Business Show in London and will also be demonstrating their product at the upcoming SPAR 3D Expo, taking place at the Anaheim Convention Centre in California early next month.

“With just a tap, iSTAR Pulsar provides fully automated 360° panoramic image capture. It’s not a camera in a traditional sense – it is capturing huge amounts of high resolution data that is connected to our vast cloud processing pipeline, offering a fully automatic workflow from capture to delivery.” Commented Neil Tocher, the Co-Founder and Chief Technical Officer of NCTech.

VRFocus will bring you more news on developments in the capture and use of information 360 degree very soon.