• Kogeto Dot Panorama iPhone Add-On Spotted: TechCrunch Disrupt New York

    Jordan Crook

    Jordan Crook studied English Literature at New York University before entering the tech space. Prior to joining TechCrunch, Crook dabbled in mobile marketing and mobile apps as well as doing device reviews for MobileMarketer and MobileBurn. Crook is fascinated with alternative energy production and greentech. She is now a writer for CrunchGear. Hello → Learn More

    Monday, May 23rd, 2011

     

    Wandering around here at TechCrunch Disrupt New York, we came across a particularly interesting iPhone 4 add-on from Kogeto, in collaboration with Kickstarter. It’s called Dot, and it will totally change your perspective on mobile video, literally. The Kogeto Dot is a panoramic lens that captures 360-degree video, without sacrificing style or portability. This add-on from Kogeto comes in a number of pastel colors and is small enough to tuck away in a purse, or even keep in a pocket.

    The Kogeto Dot comes with a complimentary iOS application that un-distorts the video for watching, sharing, or real-time web broadcasting. There seems to be a minor distortion issue as of now, but that should get cleaned up if/when the product hits its funding goal. Most everything about this add-on is pretty impressive at a first glance, although I’ve found myself questioning ease-of-use. If the iPhone has to be face-down to shoot 360-degree video, there’s no way to catch a glimpse of the video until after recording has stopped. That may not make much of a difference in some cases, but it’s hard to imagine shooting video without the ability to watch it.

    The founders are asking for minimum pledge of $1 on Kickstarter and $98 snags your very own Kogeto Dot. That may seem steep compared to lower-quality, cheaper panorama add-ons, but it’s ultimately your decision whether or not the price tag outweighs the perks.