‘Limitless Is More’ at the CANON CES 2023 

CES this year have some groundbreaking tech and also some amazing announcement from CANON, you can it for yourself!!!

Kokomo CES 2023 Press Release Announcement

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, will launch free early access to the Kokomo software in February 2023, showcasing Canon’s first application for a virtual reality (VR) platform that enables face-to-face communication in a virtual space with live-action video using easy-to-use equipment. Canon first announced the development of the Kokomo software at CES 2022.

The Kokomo application is a VR software developed by Canon that embodies the three elements of “REAL” “TOGETHER” “EXPERIENCE.” These three elements help to represent the overarching product mission of a new means of communication to be there and share your own image, facial expression, and even the clothing you are wearing. The Kokomo application uses a compatible consumer VR headset and compatible smartphone, allowing friends and family to experience being together, no matter where they are.

Easy To Use

Without the need for multiple cameras or a complex system requiring professional settings, face-to-face communication in a virtual space can be achieved with the simple configuration of a commercially available compatible VR headset and a compatible smartphone. Users can easily register using the smartphone application and connect with a caller, who also has a compatible VR headset and registers for the Kokomo application, communicating with each other in a remote location with the same ease of operation as familiar existing calling applications, with the realistic sensation of being face-to-face in a life-size setting while viewing each other’s image.

Real Together Experience

The image processing technology developed by Canon USA reproduces the user’s image in live-action in a virtual space from the image captured by the compatible smartphone, allowing the user to make an “ImmersiveCall” video call while viewing the other party and surroundings in 3D in the virtual space using the compatible VR headset. The “ImmersiveCall” with live representation allows for social interaction to be accessible from one’s home, hotel, dorm room, or across other distances if there is a compatible headset, software, and an Internet connection available. When using a VR headset that covers the user’s field of vision, a highly immersive visual experience unobstructed by screens or frames can be achieved, and by using a compatible smartphone to capture full-body images, users can communicate with gestures and other forms of communication. In addition, the “Media Player,” a function for sharing photos and videos in a virtual space, allows users to enjoy communicating and chatting together while simultaneously viewing content together on the call.

Dynamic Environment

In addition to “Kokomo Studio,” the default virtual space with a relaxed and chill atmosphere, multiple virtual spaces are available, and users can switch between them depending on the content of the conversation or mood. Other virtual spaces for an “ImmersiveCall” include “Malibu Trailer” in Malibu, California, “North Shore” and “Mountain Tea House” in Oahu, Hawaii. In addition, at CES 2023, users can experience a special virtual space inspired by the new film, Knock at the Cabin, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, in theaters on February 3.

Learn more about Kokomo by visiting Canon’s CES 2023 booth from January 5^th-8^th (Hall 3, #16359) at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Follow Canon throughout the show on Instagram and Facebook at @CanonUSA and LinkedIn at @CanonUSA. Use #CanonCES2023 to join the conversation. Visit our website at www.usa.canon.com to view the recording of Canon’s CES 2023 Press Conference, which will be hosted on our Home Page after January 4.

For additional information about Kokomo, please visit Canon.us/kokomo.

Canon Kokomo Development Press Release

Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today showcases a first-of-its-kind immersive virtual reality experience, the Kokomo Software by Canon. Kokomo is a software platform (currently in development) designed to change human communication by combining virtual reality with an immersive calling experience.

This innovative software is being designed to provide users with a way to meet friends and family virtually “in-person” by using a compatible Canon camera, a VR headset, and a compatible smartphone. Kokomo will allow users to see and hear one another in real time with their live appearance and expression in a photo-real environment while experiencing a premium virtual reality setting in captivating locations like Malibu, New York, or Hawaii.

The app uses Canon cameras and imaging technology to create realistic representations of users, so calls feel like you are interacting face-to-face rather than through a screen or an avatar. This creates a Real“Together” Experience.

“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,” said Kazuto “Kevin” Ogawa, president and CEO, Canon, U.S.A., Inc. “Kokomo will enable people to create memorable, meaningful connections.”

CES^® attendees will be amongst the first to try out the Kokomo software (currently in development) by Canon during the ImmersiveCall demonstration, which will feature the Canon RF5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens. Kokomo will be available in 2022, and the company plans to add new destinations, functionalities, and features to the Kokomo app, along with expanded compatibility with Canon cameras.

For additional information, please visit usa.canon.com.

Canon MREAL X1 Press Release

Canon Inc., Canon Marketing Japan Inc., and Canon IT Solutions Inc. announced today the launch in Japan of the latest addition to the company’s MREAL series of mixed-reality (MR) systems that merge 3D CG with real-world visuals—the MREAL X1, head-mounted display (HMD) with a wide angle of vision.

Canon’s MREAL system employs a Video See-through head-mounted display to overlay 3D CG images onto real-world space as if they were really there. Realizing a compact and lightweight body as well as high image quality, the MREAL X1 provides a wide field of vision that facilitates more efficient inspections and delivers a greater sense of immersion. These capabilities make the new model ideal for a wide variety of 3D data applications to promote digital transformation (DX) in such industries as manufacturing.

By increasing the display area, the devices realize an expanded field of vision, thus reducing the need for users to move their heads when looking around. This in turn makes possible greater efficiency during inspection workflows and facilitates worry-free operations, enabling users to confirm their own positions and work together with others.

The MREAL X1 realizes a compact and lightweight design weighing approximately 359 g (including head mount unit; display only: approximately 158 g) and an ergonomically designed head mount unit that conforms comfortably to users’ heads, thus reducing the burden during use. What’s more, the device leverages Canon’s proprietary display panel technology and the company’s long history of optical technology development to deliver high image quality in a compact and lightweight body.

Thanks to compatibility with mobile workstations, the MREAL system achieves a compact and lightweight design that enables users to easily transport the device wherever it’s needed. In addition, spatial alignment technology allows the system to be used with high positional accuracy in both outdoor and indoor environments. What’s more, 3D CG data can be shared via remote connection, thus supporting teamwork when team members are geographically distant from one another.

The MREAL X1 will go on sale in early June 2022 at an open price.

Canon Free Viewpoint Development Press Release

Canon Inc. announced today the development of the Free Viewpoint Video System, a new visual solution that incorporates the optical and sensor technologies cultivated by the Company over many years. Using this technology, Canon aims to provide a high-value-added imaging solution for a wide range of applications, including sporting events.

Various types of video production are employed at sporting events to convey a passion for sports and the thrill of competition. With the development of its Free Viewpoint Video System—which creates a realistic, immersive experience that gives the user a sense that they are really there—Canon has achieved a video experience that can be viewed from various angles and viewpoints, expanding the boundaries of visual expression and contributing to the development of video culture.

The system comprises several high-resolution cameras set up around the stadium, which are connected to a network and controlled via software to simultaneously capture the game from multiple viewpoints. Afterward, image processing technology renders the videos as high-resolution 3-D spatial data where users can freely move a virtual camera around the 3-D space, resulting in a video that can be viewed from various different angles and viewpoints.

The Free Viewpoint Video System offers a completely new, totally immersive visual experience that enables viewers to operate a virtual camera in 3-D space to move freely around the stadium and even experience the simulated physical sensation of being among players on the field during a game. Along with providing a new way to enjoy sporting events, Canon plans to explore such potential applications for this system as training teams and athletes.

Canon strives to promote sports and culture by using its cutting-edge products and technologies to develop innovative ways to enjoy visual content.

Getting Geared Up

The Atomos Ninja V+

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