Blackmagic has introduced the URSA Cine Immersive camera, designed exclusively for capturing high-quality 3D content for Apple’s Vision Pro. Available for pre-order at $30,000, deliveries are expected to begin in early 2025. The camera features dual 8K sensors with a custom stereoscopic lens, providing an impressive 180-degree field of view and support for spatial audio at 90 frames per second. Notably, it captures video at a resolution of 8,160 x 7,200 per eye, effectively more than double the Vision Pro’s display resolution.
Blackmagic launches URSA Cine Immersive camera for Vision Pro
The URSA Cine Immersive, first revealed in June 2024, integrates advanced features such as 16 stops of dynamic range, dual 5-inch HDR touchscreens, and an external color status LCD. It supports a variety of connectivity options, including 12G-SDI, 10G Ethernet, USB-C, and XLR audio ports, along with an 8-pin Lemo connector for power supply. A highlight includes an 8TB Blackmagic Media Module, allowing approximately two hours of 8K stereoscopic video in Blackmagic RAW format. The camera also supports Cloud Store for quick media synchronization.
Blackmagic emphasizes the camera’s capabilities as a game-changer for filmmakers and content creators, aiming to enhance their leverage in producing immersive experiences. CEO Grant Petty noted the upcoming integration of Apple Immersive Video format into DaVinci Resolve Studio, expected early next year. This update will facilitate a seamless workflow for filmmakers, allowing them to edit and produce high-quality immersive content efficiently.
The URSA Cine Immersive is positioned as the first commercial camera system tailored for the Vision Pro. Its high-resolution output and frame rate capabilities distinguish it from existing 3D content creation solutions. Currently, Apple holds a monopoly on immersive content created specifically for the Vision Pro, with limited options available outside its proprietary videos. The introduction of this camera could shift the landscape, potentially enabling studios to utilize Blackmagic’s technology for content creation at an unprecedented quality.
As the market for immersive video expands, Blackmagic appears poised to capitalize on the trend, marking a significant step in the evolution of 3D videography. The company has been proactive in engaging filmmakers to explore the camera’s potential applications. The industry eagerly anticipates filmmaker feedback and prospective collaborations as the camera’s release approaches.
Following the surge in interest for augmented and virtual reality experiences, the URSA Cine Immersive’s specifications align with current market demands. Apple continues to explore new content avenues for the Vision Pro, with applications like Amplium and Explore POV emerging as platforms for immersive experiences. Nonetheless, the superior quality that the URSA Cine Immersive promises could create a distinct advantage for production companies willing to invest in advanced technology.
Featured image credit: Blackmagic Design
