Nokia launches virtual reality camera

The product is another signal that Nokia aspires to return to devices beyond network equipment after exiting mobile phones previous year. The Ozo will capture virtual reality video and this will capture audio and video in 360 degrees.

With the announcement Nokia becomes the latest high-profile tech company to dabble in virtual reality, which immerses goggle-wearing users in three-dimensional worlds.

After launching its N1 tablet, Nokia has now launched a virtual reality camera targeted specifically at filmmakers.

OZO will be produced in Finland. Reported by Nokia, Ozo can render lower resolution video for playback in a few minutes.

“Ozo aims to advance the next wave of innovation in VR by putting powerful tools in the hands of professionals who will create unbelievable experiences for people around the world”, Ramzi Haidamus, president of Nokia Technologies, said in a statement. Software built for Ozo enables real-time 3D viewing, with a playback platform that removes the need to pre-assemble a panoramic image.

“OZO’s filmed content can be published for commercially available VR viewing hardware such as head mounted displays (HMDs), with immersive, full 360-degree imaging and spatially accurate original sound”. OZO also integrates into existing professional workflows and works with third-party tools, dramatically simplifying content production at all stages. However, the Nokia is evidently not focusing on the consumer side, instead, is catering to the demand of VR content creators. Nokia says that the OZO will be pushed out to the markets by the end of fourth quarter of 2015, after testing it out with industry stalwarts and gauging feedback. Nokia Technologies and Ozo marks a new chapter for the 150 year old company, which has seen its share of ups and downs in recent years. Pricing and exact camera specifications will be revealed at a later date.