Google used NAB to introduce its latest VR camera, the Yi Halo, one year after partnering with Xiaomi-backed, Chinese action cam maker Yi Technology. (Google Announces YI Halo 360º VR Camera with 8K x 8K Output) The $17K spherical device, which uses Google’s cloud-based stitching system Jump for producing stereoscopic 360º videos, will be available this summer. The Yi Halo combines 16 4K action cams with an extra camera facing upwards. While Google unveiled Odyssey two years ago, featuring 16 GoPros, the rig has largely served as a test case. The Yi Halo, however, is commercially designed with feature improvements and multiple extras.
It also addresses the blind spot limitation of Odyssey’s horizontal camera alignment by adding the upward-facing camera, which does not provide a stereoscopic upward view, but reportedly eliminates blur.
The Yi Halo can shoot stereoscopic video in 8K resolution at 30 frames per second, or 5.8K at 60 frames per second. Extras include an LCD screen, spare cameras, an SD card reader and more.
Google also introduced its new Jump Start program at NAB. “The Jump Start program connects filmmakers with the resources they need to create virtual reality films,” notes the program website. “Creators get access to a Jump virtual reality camera and unlimited stitching with the Jump Assembler.” – CC
