This week, Canon unveiled a cutting-edge new addition to its vast tech lineup: Kokomo virtual-reality software. Now, Canon’s take on VR is more than fun and games. This first-of-its-kind virtual reality software was created to revolutionize human communication as we know it. It features VR tech with an immersive calling for a “virtually in-person” experience.
What exactly does “virtually in-person” mean? With a compatible Canon camera, a VR headset, and a compatible smartphone, Kokomo places callers virtually in the same place, at the same time. Their live appearances and expressions make the encounters feel almost entirely realistic — even when connecting with loved ones halfway around the globe.
“With Kokomo, we’re tapping into Canon’s innovative spirit and heritage of high-quality imaging to enable people to have real, authentic interactions when they get together in VR. Every ImmersiveCall should be a memorable experience,” Kazuto “Kevin” Ogawa, president and CEO, Canon U.S.A., Inc., said in a press release. “Kokomo will enable people to create memorable, meaningful connections.”
The “Real Together Experience”
Canon’s VR offering, dubbed the “Real Together Experience,” generates realistic representations of each caller so it truly feels like an in-person meetup. Adding a bit of flair to those VR gatherings, users can virtually transport their get-togethers to places such as Malibu, Hawaii, or New York. Not only are you meeting up with your long-distance friends, you’re having a reunion in a (virtual) bucket-list destination.
Gear for the Canon VR Software
Canon is currently showcasing its Kokomo Software via the Canon R F/5.2mm f/2.8 Fisheye Lens at CES 2022. This will come as no surprise for those familiar with VR lenses. The Canon R F/5.2mm f/2.8 Fisheye Lens, launched in October 2021, is the world’s first digital interchangeable lens that captures stereoscopic 3D 180-degree VR imagery — all to a single image sensor. That means Canon fisheye lens users don’t have to worry about stitching images together. This groundbreaking, ultra-wide fisheye lens makes capturing VR imagery a breeze.
Beyond this one lens, there’s still much to be discovered about Canon’s Kokomo software. How much does Kokomo Software cost? Does Kokomo Software require a subscription? What Canon gear will be compatible with Kokomo Software? Can you use any smartphone to unlock these VR experiences?
We’re still waiting on these answers, but here’s what we do know. The Kokomo software is currently being showcased at CES via an ImmersiveCall demonstration. The software itself will be available in 2022 (official date TBD). Prior to its launch, Canon plans to enhance the offerings, including new destinations for those bucket-list calls. This also includes building in additional functionality and incorporating new features to make the user experience as seamless and realistic as possible.
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