RICOH THETA X 360-degree Camera
As an advanced model of the RICOH THETA series of 360-degree cameras, the THETA X is able to shoot 360-degree still images and videos in a single shot.
The RICOH THETA X 360-degree Camera, streamlining business with the first RICOH THETA series camera equipped with a large touch screen RICOH Company, Ltd. (President and CEO: Yoshinori Yamashita) today announced the launch of the new RICOH THETA X.
As an advanced model of the RICOH THETA series of 360-degree cameras able to shoot 360-degree still images and videos in a single shot, this new model is equipped with a large touch screen display, achieves high-resolution images and has been designed in pursuit of usability and outstanding quality.
Keeping in line with the original product concept for RICOH THETA, the RICOH THETA X has a compact, lightweight body that can be easily carried around anywhere, and the new RICOH THETA X offers high-resolution image equivalent to a maximum of approximately 60 megapixels (output pixel).
In a first for the RICOH THETA series, the new model is equipped with a large 2.25-inch full-colour touch screen display, improving operability during standalone camera use.
Also, a first for the RICOH THETA series, the new model also supports the use of an interchangeable battery and an external memory card for more efficient and reliable shooting in a business setting.
Since the RICOH THETA was released as the world's first* 360-degree camera in 2013, it has been utilized in a wide range of fields as a tool that expands the possibilities of photographic and video expression.
Recently, with the need to balance efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 with economic activity, 360-degree content has penetrated the business world as an important tool for improving sales activities and boosting business efficiency, particularly for the advanced remote viewing of real estate properties and automobiles or to record and manage progress at building and construction sites.
In the "new normal," the use of this type of content is expected to expand in numerous industries and businesses from facility showcases to educational, healthcare and nursing settings, in addition to those industries where THETA is already in widespread use.
*As a mass-produced consumer product capable of capturing the scene around, above, and below the device in a fully spherical image (as of October 2013 based on RICOH research).
Features
Large 2.25-inch touch screen display for significantly improved operability
The RICOH THETA X is equipped with a large user friendly 2.25-inch touch screen display. With the ability to preview the scene before capture, adjust shooting settings and view captured images, a range of operations from capture to viewing can be done without using a smartphone, offering vastly improved shooting efficiency.
High-resolution 360-degree still image and video capture
The CMOS image sensor, main processor and lens design have all been renewed.
Incorporating a new sensor with approximately 48MP, it is now possible to capture high-resolution 360-degree still images with a maximum output of approximately 60MP.
Two image sizes are available to match the scene: 11K for high-resolution bright-light indoor photography, and 5.5K to capture images easily and efficiently in other scenarios.
In addition, enhanced image stabilisation realizes vivid and smooth shooting for 360-degree videos to be captured at a 5.7K equivalent resolution of 5760 × 2880 pixels at 30 frames per second (fps). 3.
Ability to switch battery and memory cards
For the first time in the RICOH THETA series, the new RICOH THETA X is powered by an inter[1]changeable battery and the memory storage capacity can be increased with the use of an external memory card (microSDXC).
Even when shooting long hours or capturing many images, users can continue shooting without worrying about the remaining battery levels or storage capacity. The separately sold Rechargeable Battery DB-110 can be used as a spare battery.
Increased compatibility with smartphones
The RICOH THETA X can easily make a wireless connection to a smartphone without the need to enter an SSID by establishing a Bluetooth connection.
Incorporated MIMO* wireless communication technologies and real-time processing such as top/bottom correction while shooting videos made it possible to transfer still images and videos from the RICOH THETA X to a smartphone at higher speeds**.
*Multiple Input Multiple Output technology that communicates using multiple antennas **
Approximately 1.5 times faster compared with the conventional camera RICOH THETA V while shooting 5.5K still images under the same condition according to actual measurements taken by RICOH.
Improved expandability of the camera body
Continuing from the RICOH THETA V and RICOH THETA Z1, the RICOH THETA X utilized an Android-based OS, allowing third-party developers to develop and release applications (plugins) to expand the function of the camera.
Additionally, the RICOH THETA X is equipped with a large touch panel monitor, significantly extending the scope for plug-in development. It is now also possible to easily set up the "client mode" (a mode used to directly connect the RICOH THETA to a wireless router) without using a smartphone.
This allows plug-ins to be installed and firmware to be updated simply by operating the RICOH THETA X itself without using a computer or smartphone, making it easy to expand functions to suit the user's needs.
Linking with image sharing services
The RICOH THETA X links with image-sharing services provided by RICOH to improve user's workflows. It links with RICOH360 Tours *4 for the real estate industry to provide a dedicated RICOH THETA X plug-in that streamlines on-site photography *
RICOH360 Tours: 360º panorama tour production service provided by RICOH IMAGING EUROPE S.A.S. 5 7.
Additional Features
- With built-in GPS and support for A-GPS function, accurate positional information can be obtained from the device.
- The camera employs magnesium alloy for the body exterior, ensuring robustness and excellent heat-dissipating properties.
- Through the USB Type-C port on the side of the main body, power can be supplied to the camera even during tripod use without using the optional extension adapter.
- Time Shift Shooting mode allows the photographer to capture an image without being in the frame, and continuous shooting mode continuously captures 20 still images per second (when shooting 5.5K still images).
- Incorpor...
