Microsoft's Photosynth service has been available to the public since 2010, providing the ability to create 3D models from user uploaded photographs. The service has been using what they call "point cloud recognition" to see where images may align. Today, the company has announced a new preview that brings the service leaps forward.
Essentially, the software can now create more immersive Photosynths using four basic techniques (or what Microsoft is calling "experiences"); they are spin, panorama, walk, and wall.
The new spin experience allows a user to take a collection of photographs focusing on a single point and then compile the shots in a 3D rotational experience. Say for instance, you take a collection of photos that present a 360 degree scenario around a single object - you can now view the experience as if looking at a 3D scanned image.
The panorama experience allows you to "put yourself in the center of a space and look in every direction". Think not of a 180 panorama, but of a 360 degree experience. Simply stand in one spot and take a collection of photos as you turn 360 degrees (That is 6.28 radians for you mathematicians). The result is an interactive image that allows anyone to put themselves in your shoes at that very moment.
Similar to StreetView style mapping, another mode entitled, Walk, allows you to create a walkthrough experience of your very own. Simply step forward and take a picture to begin your journey. Give a tour of your house or the local village - either way, it looks fantastic.
Lastly, the service provides what they are calling "wall". The wall experience seems to essentially be what Photosynth was since day one - a flat collection of images that are stitched together into one.
You can checkout the new preview of Photosynth by heading over to their website - click here to do so.
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Source: Microsoft
