Ricoh has updated its popular Theta 360-degree camera, introducing the Ricoh Theta SC, which promises a lighter body and easier controls.
Ricoh’s Theta line has proved popular since its debut in 2013, and the new mid-class Ricoh Theta SC has been developed using a high-performance CMOS image sensor and large-aperture lens, while weighing less than previous models at just 102g and measuring 45.2 x 130.6 x 22.9mm.
The Ricoh Theta SC also allows users to transfer their captured 360-degree images to smartphones and tablet computers, as well as upload their images to Ricoh’s theta360.com website and then share them on their social media pages. Theta SC users can also now upload 360-degree videos directly to Facebook and YouTube.
Save 30% on the Ricoh Theta m15
The Ricoh Theta SC is actually comprised of two cameras, the company says, with one f/2 lens facing forwards and another facing backwards.
Inside these two cameras there are two 1/2.3-inch type, 12-million-pixel image sensors. Internal processing within the Theta SC then merges images or video from these two sensors into one 360-degree picture.
Each still image is made up of around 14-megapixels, and the Ricoh Theta SC can record video at up to Full HD quality (1920 x 1080) at 30 frames per second.
What’s more, the Theta SC also boasts 8GB of internal memory, negating the need for memory cards for most everyday use. This translates into storing up to 1600 large images or 63 minutes of Full HD video.
Ricoh says it has also streamlined the controls on the Theta SC, adding a simple switch on the side of the body allowing users to swap between stills and video easier than before. There is also a new stop/start button just under your thumb, while a new LED on the front panel states which mode the camera is in.
You can also use your smartphone via a Theta app to use to take full control of the camera and turn your phone into a Live View screen.
The Ricoh Theta SC price tag will be £249.99, with a release date set for November 2016.
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