Google has announced a new camera, the Yi Halo, that takes 360º video acquisition to the next level. It is the high end version of the Google Jump VR platform. In addition to the 360º feature this is also a full 3D camera as is required for Jump VR content. The system consists of 17 individual cameras (16 cameras in a circle and one shooting upwards), which allows the system to stitch together a 360º 3D movie in either 8K / 30fps or 5K-6K / 60fps resolution. Each camera is based on a 12 megapixel Sony CMOS sensor.
Google YI HALO 360 degree VR camera
The stitching comes via the Jump VR Assembler software and is intended to make the content creation as simple as possible.
The system can be controlled via a smartphone, which makes a lot of sense as it would be difficult for a camera man to hide anywhere near the camera! The provided battery powers the system for up to 100 minutes. The whole system only weighs 7.7 lbs (3.5kg) and comes with extra cameras in case one stops working. This redundancy makes the system pretty foolproof. In addition the control system can be upgraded in the future independently of the cameras.
Based on the advertising on the the website the camera is built to provide footage from extreme outdoor locations like desert, mountains, etc. Just be warned that the specifications page warns the user not to use the camera in wet or dusty areas, which limits the application somewhat.
The content is being saved in H.264 or mp4 format on SD cards. The camera also offers a variety of video and photo settings to get the best picture possible. For the complete set of specifications take a look at their website.
The professional camera will be available for a mere $17,000 later in 2017 when it is released. As a small conciliation for less fortunate film makers, Google is offering the camera for free (to use) to 100 film makers. Applications for the program is open until later in May 2017. (NH)
