Wearable Cameras

Introduction

In this chapter, we talk about wearable camcorders, a segment of the broader world of wearable technologies. Among the many significant aspects, the focus is on several technological solutions and the wide range of applications. This will be done by examining six application areas. Because the technology is not neutral, we must consider the social aspects of the phenomenon. The part concerning issues, controversies and problems outline the main themes.

Wearable technologies are a significant part of the current technological frontier (O’Driscoll, 2014). The viewer’s perspective can be captured through glasses, watches, clothing, and other smart devices (Shum, Liao & Zhang, 2001).Those interested in an overview of all Wearable Technologies, with particular attention to the main products and companies of the sector may see the publication of K Toh Peng (Toh, 2013). Regarding Italy, a point of reference could be the project “We Are Able To” focus on the study and development of solutions, services and technologies; the results are published on an e-book constantly updated (Lalli & Prunesti, 2014).

A Reuter’s article titled “Research and Markets: Wearable Cameras Market Report 2015: Global Market Analysis and Forecasts 2014-2020” (Apr 22, 2015) summarizes some themes to be discussed in the text: “The wearable camera market is still in the early stages of development and is experiencing rapid growth as use cases for wearable cameras expand. The consumer segment continues to grow beyond its core base of sports and adventure enthusiasts and into lifelogging and capturing photos and videos from life moments and special events. At the same time, wearable cameras are beginning to proliferate more widely in the public safety and enterprise sectors. Body-worn cameras for police officers are used with increasing frequency, and enterprise users are experimenting with a wide variety of applications from retail to hospitality to user experience research”.

In Italy, a remarkable expansion of wearable technology has occurred in the field of cameras.

In this segment, we concentrate our attention on examining the areas of applications including sports, spying, police, army, education, health, disabilities, and lifelogging.

The Google Glass, and its competitors, can be placed between the wearable cameras, but in reality it is more correct to define it as a wearable computer because the features are different: photo / video shooting, Internet browsing, voice control, GPS navigation, etc. In other words, it is a miniaturized device usable for multiple purposes, a true extension of our physical and mental potential. The chapter’s primary focus is on wearable cameras therefore will not discuss other possible uses.

In Italy, most wearable cameras refer to the use in sports. They have been on the market here for several years, with the light first “GoPro”, a brand that even today remains the industry leader. The most famous action camera was created by Nick Woodman, an American surfer who created their own version of the camera dedicated to underwater shooting. The name Go-Pro comes from the fact that surfers needed a camera operator for shooting. With the commercialization of the action camera it was no longer necessary, and its name is precisely the indication “go as a professional.”

The difference of diffusion with the other wearables can be interpreted in different ways: a) the costs of a wearable camera are comparable to that of a traditional, b) there is a fair number of people interested in sports activities, c) many users wish to document their experiences increasing visibility on social networks.

A particular market concerns “invisible” cameras / camcorders. The camcorder concealment is a solution for shooting hidden videos, used by private citizens and investigation agencies, widely used in the creation of popular television programs of investigation. In this case, the market is less extensive because, aside from personal situations, is intended for professionals.