cycloramicCycloramic is a clever panoramic video app that was released earlier this week. Unlike most panorama apps available for the iPhone, Cycloramic doesn't require users to hold the phone steady while rotating in a circle.

Instead, the app takes advantage of the strong vibrating feature of the iPhone. When balanced on a flat surface such as a granite countertop, the phone will spin on its own, capturing a hands-free 360 degree video using either the front-facing or rear camera. TechCrunch has a rundown on how it works:

Start by balancing your phone upright on a flat surface (a granite countertop or glass table). The surface has to be really smooth, so don't expect any non-laminated wood or tiles to work.

Once you press "GO", the app will make the phone vibrate at just the right frequencies to force to phone into a twirl. Your iPhone will continue to spin in a circle, which recording video, until you press the "STOP" button.


Though Cycloramic will work with the iPhone 4/4S, it was designed for the iPhone 5's lightweight form factor, which means the older iPhones won’t spin as well. The phone must also be set to "Vibrate on Silent" and "Vibrate on Ring" to function properly.

Cycloramic can be downloaded from the App Store for $0.99. [Direct Link]

Top Rated Comments

notjustjay Avatar
163 months ago
"Hey guys, watch this, I'm going to take a panoramic shot of the Grand Cany- oops!"
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
deannnnn Avatar
163 months ago
This is one of those things where the coolness factor totally outweighs the usefulness factor.
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
CTYankee Avatar
163 months ago
Say no to vertical video

YOU'RE NOT SHOOTING THAT RIGHT, DUMMY!

http://youtu.be/Bt9zSfinwFA
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
troop231 Avatar
163 months ago
Won't cases pose a problem?

You're casing it wrong ;)
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
testcard Avatar
163 months ago
I see it more as an exercise app. Set it up for 10 revolutions, hit Start, and then run around the kitchen table, attempting to remain in the frame as your iPhone rotates.
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)
mrsir2009 Avatar
163 months ago
Looks like fun until the phone gets all scratched up from the bottom.

Oh my god! My phone has tiny hair-scratches on the side that you need to squint your eyes in just the right way to see! Life's not worth living!
Score: 5 Votes (Like | Disagree)

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