Ricoh R Debuts 360-Degree Video Streaming

Specialized camera and software for spherical video streaming

By PF Staff in Pentax Announcements on Jan 4, 2017

Ricoh has unveiled the latest development in its Theta line of 360-degree cameras at this year's CES show in Las Vegas. The new Ricoh R is the industry's first camera capable of long-term continuous streaming of spherical video. Recording can be carried out for up to 24 hours thanks to an AC adapter, stand, and dedicated PC connection via USB and HDMI.

More importantly, the Ricoh R will come with a software development kit (SDK) giving programmers full access to process and display the camera's video in custom computer applications. This will make 360 video far more accessible than it has ever been, and it secures Ricoh's spot at the forefont of innovation within 360-degree photography and videography.

Ricoh R connected to power adapter and PC

While the Ricoh R has a form factor very similar to the popular Theta S and Theta SC spherical cameras that we recently reviewed (designed for hand-hend photography and shorter video clips), its mission is entirely different: it focuses primarily on continous video streaming. The underlying lenses are the same, and the output video resolution is 2K at 30FPS.

Interestingly, the Ricoh R does not appear to be marketed by Ricoh Imaging, but rather the parent company, Ricoh Inc. The model on display at CES was a prototype; market availability is expected in the Spring of 2017.

We will post an update once the full specifications of the camera are released. Until then, you can learn more about on the R's official web site, http://ricohr.ricoh/en/.

Press Release