Canon Develops Prototype for 180- and 360-Degree VR Camera
Canon, known for its traditional photography, may be venturing into the world of virtual reality with a new prototype convertible camera showcased at the Photo Next 2023 show in Japan. The unnamed device boasts a unique folding mechanism that enables it to capture both 360-degree video and 180-degree 3D content. Some websites have pointed out the similarities between the prototype and the Insta360 EVO, which also uses a folding mechanism for 180-degree 3D capture. However, Canon has not disclosed any information regarding specifications, pricing, or availability, according to Pronews.
PHOTO NEXT 2023のキヤノンブースで展示されている
Canon PowerShot Vシリーズのコンセプトカメラ
360°＆180° 3D VR Camera
表裏にレンズが付いていて、360°カメラとして使えるし、広げてヒラメにすると180°VRカメラになるそうです。
詳細は非公開です。 pic.twitter.com/STHjBGxLCM— Ichiro Uematsu (@IchiroYqz01403) June 6, 2023
Canon has previously dabbled only in virtual reality. For example, in 2021 the company released a dual fisheye lens for its mirrorless RF camera system. The camera teased at Canon’s Photo Next event features the company’s V brand, which it typically reserves for consumer products. This suggests that Canon might be ready to take VR more seriously. While the company has sometimes been slow to adopt new technologies, Canon’s usual slow pace may work in its favor this time. Consumer VR has been slow to take off, but with Apple’s recent entry into the market, the camera maker could be ideally positioned to capitalize on growing interest in the format as the market matures.
