Even in the midst of the excitement surrounding the announcement of its new flagship DSLR, the D5, Nikon has surprised the world with the announcement of its first-ever action camera, the KeyMission 360. The first entry into what will be a new family of action cameras, the KeyMission 360 is a compact and rugged camera that captures full 360-degree video and photos in 4K UHD resolution, allowing users to relive and share their adventures from every angle.
In order to capture 360-degree content, the KeyMission 360 features image sensors and lenses on two sides of the device, which are then combined into a single video or photo. With a construction that is dustproof, waterproof to depths of 100′, and shockproof from drops of 6.6′, the camera is also built to withstand the elements and go wherever the action takes you. While information is still limited, Nikon has revealed that the camera features electronic Vibration Reduction (VR) that can be enabled to help reduce the effects of shakes and jitters that can plague body and vehicle-mounted action footage. Markings on the camera body also indicate that the camera will offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, presumably for remote monitor, control, and sharing via your mobile device.
The KeyMission 360 shows not only the growing influence of action cameras, but the rise of 360-degree and VR content. Nikon will look to shake up those industries by bringing its known optics and imaging expertise into the mix. The camera will be on display at Nikon’s booth at CES 2016, and is planned for a Spring 2016 release.
