Blackmagic Design has taken a bold step forward in the realm of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) content creation with the introduction of its new camera system, designed specifically for the Apple Vision Pro. This marks a significant leap in the industry, promising an end-to-end workflow for filming and editing Apple Immersive Video.
The Apple Vision Pro is equipped to play back footage created using the Apple Immersive Video standard, which boasts 8K 3D video, a 180-degree field of view, and Spatial Audio support. To meet these demanding specifications, Blackmagic Design has launched what it claims to be the world’s first commercial camera system and editing software compatible with Apple Immersive Video.
At the heart of this innovation is the Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive camera. This state-of-the-art device features a custom stereoscopic lens preinstalled on the camera body, capable of capturing an impressive 8,160 by 7,200 resolution per eye. It offers pixel-level synchronisation and 16 stops of dynamic range, ensuring stunningly detailed and dynamic footage.
The URSA Cine Immersive camera is designed for high-performance filming, with the ability to shoot at 90fps. The stereoscopic footage is embedded into a single file, complete with lens data, making the editing process smoother. Built with a magnesium alloy chassis and a carbon fibre polycarbonate composite skin, the camera is both robust and lightweight. It features dual 5-inch HDR touchscreens, eliminating the need for additional external monitors, and a comprehensive set of connections including 12G-SGI out, 10G Ethernet, USB-C, and XLR audio. The camera also includes an 8-pin Lemo connector for 24V and 12V power, alongside a 250W power supply.
Recording to 8TB of high-performance network storage, the URSA Cine Immersive camera connects to the Blackmagic Media Module, which can be synced with Blackmagic Cloud. This allows for over two hours of 8K stereoscopic video to be captured and accessed remotely by editors, even as the shoot progresses.
Post-production is equally cutting-edge, with the Blackmagic RAW file being processed in an updated version of DaVinci Resolve. This software, enhanced specifically for Apple Immersive Video, enables footage to be edited directly from the camera file and viewed on 2D monitors using a new immersive video viewer.
Both the Blackmagic URSA Cine Immersive camera and the updated DaVinci Resolve software are set to be available later in 2024 through Blackmagic Design resellers. This launch signifies a new era for AR and VR content, providing creators with the tools to produce unparalleled immersive experiences for the Apple Vision Pro.
