Throwable Panoramic Camera Ball Records Video Mid-Flight

'Squito', as the 'throwable panoramic camera ball' is officially known, is the brainchild of Boston-based inventor Steve Hollinger. Packed with three cameras, an IMU (inertial measurement unit), a microcontroller, an image processor and sensors, the tennis ball-sized piece of first generation genius promises to take video to yet another new level.

And yes, it might unleash a torrent of Facebook selfies from unimaginable angles, but what's more interesting about Squito is its potential to assist in search-and-rescue missions, reconnaissance, architectural development and mapping. Built to function in all kinds of conditions, including darkness, fog and smoke, it can be used in disaster zones to detect injured and trapped victims.

Squito's sensors determine the relationship between its rapidly moving apertures and the subject concerned, so that images can be joined to form a panorama. Moreover, video stabilisation is possible, and photos and footage are sent to a nearby computer, tablet or smartphone via wireless communication.

'Throwable camera innovations are accelerating with advancements in sensor and imaging microelectronics,' Hollinger explains. 'And with the advent of low-cost, high-speed cameras for outdoor recreation, an affordable throwable camera is finally within reach.'

Want one?

Unfortunately, the Squito is not yet up for sale. Hollinger has a second patent, but he's looking for 'camera companies, investors and individuals operating on the cutting edge' to get involved.

[via Hypebeast]