New Samsung Gear 360: Is this proof of an incoming VR camera upgrade?
Samsung may be readying a proper successor to the Samsung Gear 360 , a 360-degree camera design to capture VR-friendly footage.
The first version of the Samsung Gear 360 was launched in February 2016, offering normal consumers a relatively cheap way to capture 360-degree video, a feat generally only possible previously using pricey camera rigs. We’ve since seen an updated version of this camera, but no proper successor.
However, the latest rumours suggest that Samsung will be launching a new Gear 360 camera at Berlin’s annual IFA 2017 tradeshow, which is due to begin on August 31, 2017.
The latest leak that supports this theory comes via tech blog Mobielkopen, which notes that Samsung submitted an application with the EU’s Intellectual Property Office for a device called ‘360 Round’ on August 25 – that’s just last week.
The application doesn’t reveal much, save for the fact that the device is listed as having the model number SM-R260. That’s interesting, as the original Samsung Gear 360 camera had the model number SM-R210 – a notably familiar moniker.
The application also notes that the device falls under the following categories: Digital cameras, motion picture cameras, photographic apparatus and instruments; multi-frame view cameras; cameras; camcorders; digital video recorders; video cameras, camera mounts; tripods for camera.
Given that Samsung has already unveiled the Galaxy Note 8 (a new flagship smartphone), the question remains regarding what the company plans to launch at IFA 2017. Debuting a new VR-friendly camera – amongst other products, no doubt – would be a perfect way to capture the attention of tech press in the wake of the Note 8 launch.
We gave the latest iteration of the Samsung Gear 360 a respectable 4/5 score, praising the camera’s portable design, ease-of-use, and Samsung’s reliable companion app. This score was given at the original review price of £220, prompting the following verdict:
“There are some minor annoyances like the makeshift tripod when the old chunky tripod was good enough, and a battery that’s smaller than its predecessor, but otherwise the charming new design feels great. The Gear 360’s enticing package is then all tied together by a much lower price.”
We added: “The Samsung Gear 360 (2017) makes it easy to get started in 360-degree content.”
Unfortunately, we’ve had no official confirmation regarding the prospect of a successor to the original Gear 360, so take this leak – and all others – with due caution.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
