In recent news, UK-based company Move AI has secured $10 million in seed funding. This startup, known for its innovative smartphone app that transforms standard 2D videos into 3D motion capture models, is poised to revolutionize the traditional, expensive, and time-consuming methods of 3D motion capture used in sports, film, TV, video games, and music videos.
Funding Sources
The seed funding for Move AI comes from prominent investors, including Play Ventures, Warner Music Group, RKKVC, Level2 Ventures, and Animoca Brands. Warner Music Group’s involvement reflects the entertainment industry’s growing interest in leveraging Move AI’s markerless motion capture technology to create captivating music videos and groundbreaking music performance experiences, like holograms.
Democratizing 3D Animation
Move AI’s mission is to democratize 3D animation by making it more accessible and affordable for creators. CEO Tino Millar expressed excitement about using the funding to reduce the cost of 3D animation, making it attainable for a wider audience. This move signifies a shift away from the traditional method of placing markers on subjects and using specialized cameras for capture.
User-Friendly App
Move AI offers an iOS app that requires users to position at least two smartphone cameras (up to six) around the subject, with experimental Android and digital camera support in development. The company recently updated its sign-up process to involve onboarding by a Move team member. Additionally, they introduced custom pricing plans through the Move Pro subscription model.
Introducing Move One
Move AI’s latest development is the “Move One” app, designed for single-device 3D motion capture. The app is currently accepting applications for its invitation-only beta testing phase. Customers of the multi-camera app can request access to Move One’s beta testing.
Entertainment Industry Implications
Move AI’s ascent has profound implications for the entertainment industry. As the 2023 writers’ strike, Hollywood actors’ strike, and video game performers’ strike loom, the demand for innovative solutions is higher than ever. While 3D scanning and AI technologies were previously separate in Hollywood, Move AI bridges the gap using proprietary AI models to convert 2D videos into 3D motion.
Reducing Costs and Expanding Creativity
With Move AI, the cost of producing effects-driven films, video games, music videos, sports analysis, and other forms of art and entertainment is set to significantly decrease. CEO Tino Millar believes that Move AI can make motion capture 100 to 1,000 times cheaper while maintaining quality, enabling amateurs and aspiring creators to unlock their creative potential.
Potential Concerns
However, there are concerns about the potential misuse of this technology, such as studios undercutting talent by scanning their work for reuse, which actors’ unions are currently opposing. Additionally, unauthorized captures of individuals raise privacy concerns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Move AI’s $10 million seed funding is a significant step towards democratizing 3D animation and revolutionizing motion capture technology. With the introduction of the Move One app and the support of leading investors, Move AI is poised to make 3D motion capture more accessible and affordable, offering new creative possibilities for professionals and amateurs alike in the world of entertainment. However, ethical considerations and potential misuse of the technology highlight the need for responsible and ethical use as this transformative technology becomes more widespread.
FAQs
What is Move AI’s primary goal with its 3D motion capture technology?
Move AI’s primary goal is to democratize 3D animation by making it more accessible and affordable for creators. They aim to reduce the cost of 3D animation and eliminate the need for traditional, expensive methods, such as placing markers on subjects and using specialized cameras for capture.
How does Move AI’s app work, and what devices does it support?
Move AI offers an iOS app that requires users to position at least two smartphone cameras (up to six) around the subject. They also have an experimental mode in development that supports Android devices and other digital cameras. The app uses proprietary AI models to convert standard 2D videos into 3D motion capture models.
