If you are unfamiliar with fisheye cameras, they hold lenses that allow them to see a complete 360-degree view. It is worth noting this is not a technology Microsoft is inventing as it has been around for years. However, the recently published Microsoft Patent plans to utilize fisheye camera technology differently. Specifically, the company wants to use AI to improve how ambient capture devices work. Typically, these capture devices need multiple cameras to be able to cover the 360-degree field of view (FoV). According to the Microsoft Patent, the company can create an upward-facing fisheye lens that work with an ambient capture device. The aim of the technology would be to significantly reduce problems that arise when capturing moving object or focusing on a single movement amongst numerous objects. Microsoft will use several microphones and a fisheye camera positioned close to a circular array of mics.
AI
By using AI integration, Microsoft could also potentially fold in other features, such as voice control, Cortana functionality, and more. Microsoft describes how the technology could function across form factors, including smartphones, tablets, and PCs. As always with a patent, there are no guarantees that Microsoft will ever implement the technology. However, we know the company is eager to leverage artificial intelligence across functionality, so this is something we would see the company developing further.
