Capturing 360-degree images used to require complex and expensive setup. But Ricoh changed the game in 2013 when it introduced the world’s first 360-degree consumer camera. Fast forward to today, the imaging company has given the Theta Z1 an upgrade.
This latest iteration shares the same aesthetic and specifications of the Theta Z1 introduced in 2019. The only difference is the storage bump to 51 GB from the previous 19 GB, and hence the name, Theta Z1 51GB.
At the heart of the camera is a 23 MP 1.0-inch back-illuminated CMOS image sensor good for 6,720 x 3,360 pixels 360-degree still images, a multi-level aperture mechanism for setting F-number to 1-3 levels, a high-performance image processing algorithm, automatic Dynamic Range compensation and the latest 3-axis rotational stabilization for video recording in which in is capable of recording up to 4K resolution.
Other highlights include a 0.93-inch OLED monitor that displays shooting information, high shutter speed of up to 1/25000 seconds, Bluetooth and wireless LAN connectivity, support for RAW and JPEG files, direct share to social medial platforms from camera, Qualcomm Snapdragon chip, Android-based OS, and a lightweight and robust magnesium alloy body.
For the increased in internal storage capacity, the Ricoh Theta Z1 51GB will run you back at US$1,049.95 in stateside when it becomes available in late May from select retailers, both on and off line.
Images: Ricoh.
