LOS ANGELES — As the roll-out of new virtual reality technologies and tools continues, capabilities are climbing even as prices are falling — echoing longstanding trends in consumer tech, as these devices are becoming more mainstream.
While much attention has been paid to the development of integrated VR headsets that do not require a separate computer or phone, such as Oculus Go and its second-generation cousins, the real challenge is to put reasonable quality VR cameras that are as easy to use as a cellphone into consumer’s hands as a way of driving the availability of and interest in VR content.
An intriguing array of solutions to this problem are now in the pipeline, including the new 360Penguin — a “family friendly” device with decidedly adult applications.
Calling itself the “easiest, most affordable, consumer-friendly 360-degree VR video and photo panoramic camera on the planet,” 360Penguin has taken to Kickstarter to realize its vision of making virtual reality content quick, easy and cheap to create.
360Penguin boasts 6K video resolution at 12 fps and 4K at 30 fps with h.264 encoding, plus still photos at 6912x3456 pixels, and features time-lapse, live streaming to Facebook and YouTube, an app editor and more — and is positioned to hit the market at a mid-$200 price point.
Dual 210-degree sharp f1.8 lenses, storage up to 64Gb, and up to 90 minutes of runtime round out the basics, while a range of mounting options is available via an “action cam” (think GoPro) mount and is highlighted by the Livestreaming Mount Adapter, which allows access to the USB-C port for continuous device power — a small but vital feature for pro users who can be freed from battery use in the studio.
“It’s the most convenient 360-degree camera you’ll ever own,” says a company spokesperson. “Not only is it affordable, its sleek design is packed with the latest and greatest 360-degree tools yet small enough to fit into a pocket or purse.”
Users can connect to the camera via Wi-Fi for a real-time 360-degree view of everything that’s around the camera, panning, tilting, zooming and rotating to see the scene from any angle.
For today’s new generation of content creators, including live cam artists — as well as more established studios seeking an easy inroad into one of porn’s newest frontiers — devices such as the 360Penguin are an intriguing option for exploring VR, both in the studio and on the go.
Although this specific device’s fate is now in the hands of its Kickstarter supporters, it clearly represents a market space that will see other entrants and ultimately provide yet more options in the adult content creator’s toolbox.
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