Ricoh launches Theta S 360-degree camera for Rs 39,995

VR and 360-degree video are growing in a big way, with even major players getting in the game. YouTube has a dedicated 360-video section, Facebook supports the video format on its platform, Google Cardboard has a bunch of games and experiences to try out on Android, and GoPro is proud to be the default camera in Google's 360-degree recording rig, Jump. Unfortunately, that kind of hardware can be cost prohibitive for the amateur filmmaker; that's where Ricoh comes in.

Ricoh India today launched the Theta S camera, that captures video 360-degrees around the user. The camera captures high resolution, fully spherical photos and videos, features a live preview function, and is also compatible with social media platforms. The application program interface (API) for the Theta S is based on Google-supported Open Spherical Camera API for compatibility with Google’s services.

The Ricoh Theta S camera may look small but it packs in a lot of features. The device can record spherical video in full 1080p HD at 30fps, with a maximum recording time of 25 minutes and lets you capture high-resolution spherical images of up to 14 megapixels. It's also capable of streaming live video with its in-built USB or HDMI port. During our brief hands on with the Theta S at the launch event, it seemed to provide good quality images due to an enlarged image sensor and f/2.0 lenses. The spherical images can be uploaded to theta360.com and shared via various social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Tumbler, and posted to Google Maps, Google+ and the YouTube 360 video channel.

Manoj Kumar, Managing Director & CEO of Ricoh India Limited said, "Ricoh pioneered the spherical camera market and, today, we are delighted to offer users increased value and richer 360-degree experiences with our new Ricoh Theta S. The improved camera is four times faster with enhanced image quality. Industries like real estate, architecture, events, travel & leisure will be benefited through this innovative solution."

The Ricoh Theta S camera sports a black rubber coating and handy face-mounted LED mode indicator. The device will be available in the market for Rs 39,995 from December 2015. However, as a consumer I expected the in-built memory to be at least 16GB as opposed to the 8GB space offered (of which only 4 GB is usable).