white
pink
yellow
blue
Tokyo, October 28, 2014--Ricoh Company, Ltd. announced today that it has developed a new model of the RICOH THETA（Model code: RICOH THETA m15）, an input device that allows users to capture the area all around them in a single spherical image. The new spherical camera, which can also capture spherical videos, will be marketed by RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD.
Since its launch last year as the world's first image input device*1, the RICOH THETA has opened a new world of imaging possibilities. Users can shoot game changing new spherical images at any time, capturing more than they ever imagined. In response to popular demand, the new model enables Wi-Fi transfer that is almost twice as fast as the previous model as well as spherical video capture, all with the same small, lightweight and easy-to-carry design as before. Video image conversion processing can be performed on a computer after shooting, enabling users to enjoy up to 3 minutes*2 of spherical video footage that will make them feel like they're right there. Users can also choose from four body colors, providing a more fun and attractive tool to carry around every day.
An API (Application Programming Interface) and SDK (Software Development Kit) (beta version) will be released on theta360.com along with the release of the new RICOH THETA. Users can now develop their own original apps to configure various settings and perform various operations using the RICOH THETA. By developing their own apps, users will be able to add new exciting capabilities to their RICOH THETA. Ricoh looks forward to broadening the range of enjoyment available through this unique device.
*1...The first consumer product that allows the entire area around the user to be captured in one shot, instead of simply taking horizontal panoramas or semi-spherical shots. (As of October 2013. Ricoh research)
*2...Upload to sharing sites is up to 5MB ≒ 6 seconds (1280 x 720 pixels)
Main Features
1. Spherical stills
It allows users to capture the area all around them in one shot. Images are then transferred to a smartphone via Wi-Fi where the user can change the size, shape and composition with simple fingertip operations using a free dedicated app. Users can also change the RICOH THETA shooting setup by a smartphone which is connected through Wi-Fi. - Images can be uploaded to the theta360.com dedicated website, and can also be shared on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr, as well as Microsoft®'s Photosynth®. Spherical images can also be posted to Google Maps and Google+.
2. Spherical videos
By adopting new parts and utilizing a video control program, spherical videos up to 3 minutes in length can be shot. After shooting, spherical videos that have no stitch lines can be enjoyed by processing with the video creation tool*3 in the dedicated application. The image size, shape and composition can be changed using simple fingertip operations.
Videos can be uploaded to the theta360.com dedicated website, and can also be shared on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr. (Up to 5MB).
*3...RICOH THETA for Windows®/Mac (https://theta360.com/en/support/download/)
*In order to view the videos, RICOH THETA for Windows®/Mac is required to convert the videos that are shot separately.
*Video conversion performance varies depending on your computer environment (OpenGL technology).
See theta360.com for details.
3. Increased communication speed
- Wi-Fi transfer speeds have been increased by a maximum of 2x. Users can enjoy smooth and serial shooting image transmission.
4. Color variations
- In addition to the previous white color, RICOH THETA is now available in pink, yellow and blue.
5. API/SDK (beta version)
- API/SDK will be available for users to develop their own original apps on theta360.com site. You can now create your own RICOH THETA apps, arranging function settings and operation. API/SDK will be released on 14th November and applicable to the conventional model also.
Optional Accessory
Attachment for Strap (Color: Silver, Grey, Green, Blue, and Orange)
By attaching on the tripod socket hole on the bottom, a strap can be set.
Price: Open
On-Sale Date: Available now
RICOH THETA (RICOH THETA m15) Main Specifications
| Shooting distance | Approximately 10cm to infinity (from front of lens) |
|---|---|
| Shooting mode*1 | Still image: Auto, shutter priority, ISO priority, Video: Auto |
| Exposure control | Automatic |
| Exposure compensation | Still image: Manual compensation (-2.0 - +2.0EV, 1/3EV step) |
| ISO sensitivity*1 (standard output sensitivity) |
Still image: ISO 100 to 1600, Video: ISO 100 to 400 |
| White balance*1 | Still image: Auto, indoors, outdoors, cloudy, incandescent lamp 1, incandescent lamp 2, daylight color fluorescent lamp, natural white fluorescent lamp, white fluorescent lamp, light bulb color fluorescent lamp, Video: Auto |
| Shutter speed | Still: Automatic 1/8000~1/7.5 second Movie: Automatic 1/8000~1/15 second |
| Recording medium | Internal memory: Approx. 4GB |
| Number of photos that can be recorded, time*2 | Still image: Approx. 1200, Video (time per recording): Max. 3 minutes, Video (total recording time): Approx. 40 minutes*3. |
| Power source | Lithium ion battery (built in) *4 |
| Battery life | Approx. 200 photos *5 |
| Image file format | Still image: JPEG (Exif Ver. 2.3), DCF2.0 compliant, MOV (Video: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, Audio: LinearPCM) |
| External interface | Micro-USB: USB 2.0 |
| Exterior/external dimensions | 42mm (W) x 129mm (H) x 22.8mm (17.4 mm*6) (D) |
| Weight | Approx. 95 grams |
| Usage temperature range | 0 to 40 degrees Celsius |
| Usage humidity range | 90% or less |
| Storage temperature range | -20 to 60 degrees Celsius |
*1...A smartphone is required to change modes or configure manual settings.
*2...The number of photos and time are guides only. The actual number differs according to the photography conditions.
*3 ...Automatic shut down if the internal temperature increases.
*4...Charge the battery by connecting it to a PC using the supplied USB cable.
*5...The number of photos that can be taken is a guide based on Ricoh's measurement method (wireless on, one photo taken every 30 seconds and transferred to smartphone). The actual number differs according to usage conditions.
*6...Excluding lens section.
Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.
Microsoft, Photosynth and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.
Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.
Twitter is a registered trademark of Twitter, Inc.
Tumblr is a registered trademark of Tumblr, Inc.
Google Map is a registered trademark of Google Inc.
Mac is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Note: Designs and specifications are subject to change without notice.