theta360

Theta 360, commonly referred to as theta360, is a brand of 360-degree cameras developed by Ricoh under its Theta line. The devices are designed to capture immersive spherical images and videos by recording from two wide-angle lenses and stitching the footage into a single 360-degree panorama. Output is typically saved in equirectangular formats suitable for viewing with VR headsets or 360-degree viewers. Most models offer wireless connectivity and work with a companion mobile app for remote shooting, live preview, basic editing, and easy sharing.

Technical characteristics vary by model, but Theta cameras generally use dual-lens rigs, compact form factors, and internal or removable storage. They enable both still photography and video capture, with many models supporting higher resolutions and 4K video in newer generations. The workflow is often complemented by updates to firmware and the availability of smartphone apps for iOS and Android, which facilitate control, stitching quality, and direct uploads to online platforms.

History and ecosystem: The Theta line was introduced in the early 2010s and has evolved through multiple generations that improved resolution, stabilization, low-light performance, and user-friendly features. Ricoh has fostered an ecosystem around Theta with official apps, viewer and sharing options, and compatibility with third-party tools for editing, publishing, and VR experiences. The cameras are widely used for real estate tours, travel photography, events, education, and immersive media creation, reflecting their role in popularizing consumer-grade 360-degree photography.