It turns out that making a throwable camera isn’t that tricky. But making a throwable camera that doesn’t capture random obscure images, or spinning video that induces motion sickness, is kind of hard. In fact, it’s taken Steve Hollinger years to develop such a camera, but with the Squito — his latest prototype — it looks like he’s almost nailed it.
As demonstrated, the ball features a series of built-in cameras looking out in all directions that are able to take photos of people as it sails through the air using intelligent image recognition. It’s also able to capture sweeping panoramas, full 360 degree images by automatically stitching together multiple exposures, and even full stabilised video.
But besides serving as a novel way to take a selfie, Holinger’s designed the Squito with several practical applications in mind. Thermal imaging and night vision capabilities coupled with the ability to wirelessly broadcast images makes it a useful tool for rescue personnel trying to assess a dangerous situation. Multiple Squitos can even be thrown at the same time to capture a wider field of view.
And most importantly, one day it’s going to totally revolutionise the baseball instant replay. The only thing standing between the Squito dream and reality is enough funding to perfect and commercialise this prototype.