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(sphere) is an almost-spherical 360 lens for DSLRs and mirrorless cameras

(Sphere) is a new toroidal (donut-shaped) lens for interchangeable lens cameras, and it has an almost fully spherical field of view.
360 lenses for interchangeable lens cameras have typically been catadioptric designs with a large blind spot. (Sphere) is a lens with a new design that has an almost spherical field of view, making it unnecessary to stitch photos or videos.  (Sphere) also enables photographers and videographers to use larger sensors of full frame cameras, for higher image quality compared to consumer 360 cameras with small sensors.

Here is a sample video from the (Sphere) lens on a Panasonic GH4:

Sphere Optics claims that (Sphere) is fully spherical although to me it looks more like 360 x 300 degrees.  Here is a screen capture of the nadir (note: this is not the maximum resolution).

The aperture is fixed at f/8, and focus is also fixed, with a focal distance of around 40 inches.  The lens is 7.8 inches long and weighs around 4 lbs. (19.8 cm ,1.8 kg).

(Sphere) has a Nikon F-mount designed for full frame 35mm cameras, but it can also be used on other interchangeable lens cameras with an adapter.

Sphere Optics has not yet disclosed the pricing and availability for the (Sphere) lens.  There are currently a limited quantity available for purchase or rent, directly from Sphere Optics.

In the meantime, Sphere Optics will also be releasing lenses for GoPro cameras and mobile phones.

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Mic Ty

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