Surface Duo cameras to capture stereoscopic 3D images

Microsoft’s upcoming dual-screen devices boast several game-changing features that draw your attention whenever you spot a Surface Neo or Surface Duo demo video or picture.

You probably cannot wait to hold one such gadget in the palm of your hand and explore its multiple screen modes or expansive, flexible display. The ability to multi-task or fluidly span apps across the two screens is irresistible too.

The Surface Duo may have yet another unique selling point based on the image capture technology that Microsoft patented recently.

Capturing anaglyph images

The design of conventional phone cameras does not lend itself to the capture of anaglyph images. It is difficult if not impossible to take raw 3D color images that project the illusion of depth with these devices.

You could pull it off DIY style using photo processing software like Photoshop, but direct capture without any post-processing would be much cooler. Traditional cameras may require additional equipment to produce high-quality images of this type.

Microsoft’s patented dual-screen camera technology changes the game as it can capture and generate anaglyphs. If the Surface Duo has this tech, it may be just what you need to start capturing raw stereoscopic 3D images.

The processor is configured to process the first image of the stereo pair with a red filter according to the selected function; the processor is configured to process the second image of the stereo pair with a cyan filter according to the selected function; and the stereo pair of images is displayed as a single anaglyph image.

The upcoming device has two screens separated by a hinge. It appears that two cameras, one on each display, will be used to simultaneously capture a stereo pair of images for processing into a single anaglyph.

Surface Duo cameras may have other paradigm-flipping capabilities, such as letting you take photos that require unconventional orientations. To put this into perspective, think about the awkward postures you may have had to get to when attempting a difficult shot.

For example, when you turn your traditional smartphone to find a better angle, you always have to turn your head to keep your eyes on the viewfinder. But the Surface Duo has a flexible display that you can fold to any angle to take some incredible shots.