With the release of Apple’s iOS 6 today, many are excited about the new panorama option in the updated iPhone camera. I wanted to put Apple’s panorama photos up against photos from a highly-rated panorama app I recently bought, 360 Panorama, to see how they compared. I took photos with both, right outside my office building (it’s a beautiful day out there!)
First, 360 Panorama:
Pic taken using 360 Panorama
Then, the iOS 6 panorama option:
Pic taken using iOS 6 panorama
As you can see, there’s quite a difference. The 360 Panorama image is blurry in spots, has jagged edges, and the seams/transitions aren’t smooth. The iOS 6 image, on the other hand, is crisp and without any noticeable seams whatsoever. In terms of usability, I’d give the nod to iOS 6 too — it’s as easy as keeping a line and arrow lined up with each other as you move your camera from one side to the other. It’s more of a judgement call with 360 Panorama.
360 Panorama does allow you to upload a 360-degree rotating version of your photo, but my advice if you want to take a simple panorama shot? Save your hard-earned $0.99 and just use the built-in option in iOS 6.