Sony jumped on the bandwagon of the metaverse with a new device that will bring your avatars to life in a virtual environment. The Japanese company announced Mocopi, motion capture system consists of six sensors located in different parts of the body. The sensors can be easily adjusted at the ankles, wrists or hips using the straps.
Sony’s idea is to simplify such a complex process as character animation so that the average user can customize the metaverse avatar with his movements. Mocopi uses six proprietary color sensors that work in conjunction with a smartphone app. The capture is done in real time in virtual reality and Compatible with apps like VRChat as well as multiple VR headsets.
In terms of specifications, the sensors are 3.2 cm in diameter and weigh only 8 grams. It is worn on the head, wrists, hips and ankles, adjustable with clips or a Velcro strap. Later we have to synchronize them with a mobile phone via Bluetooth and calibrate them in a special application.
the application allows you to create a sequence of movements and apply it to the avatar customizable. User can change character or background values before recording video which can be exported to MP4. One striking feature is that you can record your voice with the microphone and it will be synchronized with the avatar’s mouth.
Sony wants to democratize content creation in the metaverse
Mocopi is an end user device, so you shouldn’t expect results similar to those of a professional motion capture system. The advantage of this gadget is that simplifies the process so that any user can do it without investing a fortune. Sony’s offering is similar to what Unreal Engine is doing with its facial animation and 3D scanning applications using the iPhone.
While the focus is on the metaverse and wtubersMocopi can also work in other areas such as cinema or fitness. Sensors can be integrated into industries such as animation or game development. Sony has confirmed that it will release a development kit (SDK) in mid-December that can link capture data to software like Unity and MotionBuilder.
As a rule, video production using motion capture requires special crews and operators. Using our proprietary algorithm, Mocopi performs highly accurate motion measurements with a small number of sensors, freeing VTubers (virtual YouTubers) and film and animation makers from the constraints of time and space.
mokopi It will cost 49,500 yen (345 euros) and will be available in January 2023. in Japan. The app will be compatible with devices running iOS 15.7.1 and Android 11. As is customary for this class of device, Sony did not provide information on a possible launch in other markets.
Source: Hiper Textual
