Known extensively for their Theta S 360-degree camera, Ricoh has announced the Ricoh R at CES 2017. The Ricoh R comes in the form of a developer kit that’s inclusive of the 360-camera itself, a camera stand, along with the software development kit (SDK) and source code to encourage app development.
The Ricoh R is capable of live streaming 360-degree video with 2K resolution at 30 fps. Video footage is stitched within the camera itself from both lenses in real time into a flattened format for easy viewing. The footage can then be output via HDMI or USB and recorded to a microSD card.
Ricoh claims that the Ricoh R is able to broadcast a 360-degree live stream for up to 24 hours if its plugged in to a power outlet. While the feature isn’t necessarily groundbreaking, it exhibits the potential for 360-degree streaming at events without the need for huge equipment. Ricoh have already done beta tests such as a live concert broadcast and even an “internet high school” graduation ceremony to demonstrate its competence.
A prototype of the Ricoh R is being showcased on the CES showfloor and while the camera won’t be in the hands of general consumers anytime soon, it’s promising to know that a company Ricoh is reaching out to developers to expand and promote the 360-degree ecosystem.
Source: [DPReview]
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