Virtual Production Software specialist Glassbox Technologies has released an upgrade to its professional, cross-platform virtual camera solution DragonFly. The latest upgrade, DragonFly 2.0, brings major advancements in camera tracking capabilities, including the addition of HTC VIVE’s VIVE Tracker support, more flexible workflow features, new floating license options, and the addition of live motion capture support. With a whole host of user-led enhancements, DragonFly 2.0 delivers more options for both indie content creators and studios needing a flexible virtual camera solution for both remote and in-studio workflows.
We’ve been lucky enough to work closely with our clients over the past few months to identify what would make a big difference to them in the midst of these challenges times,” said Glassbox CPO and co-founder Mariana Acuña Acosta. “More than ever, content creators are looking for flexibility to work remotely with a number of different production technologies, and we’re confident our new release will make that process easier than ever for our users.”
Chief among DragonFly 2.0’s advancements is the addition of native support of the Vive Tracker, HTC VIVE’s universal tracking device. Use of the Vive Tracker in virtual production has increased exponentially as teams adjust to remote work, thanks to its accessible, low latency and VPN-friendly approach. Glassbox partnered closely with HTC Vive to deliver an intuitive out-of-the-box solution for its users.
"The Glassbox suite of tools is quickly becoming a game changer for our Virtual Production teams. Their dedication to rapid feedback, development, and creative solves is exactly what you need in a technology partner," said Jason Osterday of Electronic Arts.
“Glassbox has developed the best virtual cinematic experience by combining the latest version of their virtual camera, DragonFly 2.0, with HTC VIVE’s flexible tracking system, resulting in a streamlined and user-friendly virtual production workflow,” said Raymond Pao, SVP of Products and Strategy at HTC VIVE. “By integrating Vive Tracker support with Glassbox’s leading virtual cinematography software, together we’ve enabled endless innovative possibilities for creators in the industry.”
DragonFly is a professional cross-platform virtual camera for Unreal Engine, Unity 3D, and Maya that gives users the power to view their computer-generated (CG) environments, character performances, and scenes, just as if you were doing a live-action shoot. Used in previs, virtual cinematography, or for virtual location scoutings, DragonFly renders shots in real-time through the camera’s viewfinder, an LCD monitor, or iPad, letting users visualize their virtual world, record, bookmark, create snapshots and replicate real camera moves.
Additions to DragonFly 2.0:
Native Vive Tracker Support – DragonFly 2.0 adds Vive Tracker support to DragonFly’s native list of tracking options, giving users a simplified UI that automates the setup of industry-standard trackers out of the box. The Native Vive Tracker also supports VPN and makes working from home with DragonFly much easier. Unreal and Maya versions only.
Custom Tracking Input API – DragonFly 2.0’s custom tracking input API enables users of specialist tracking solutions, like MoSys and TechnoCrane, to override the native tracking inputs and get to work with their tracking solution of choice. Unreal version only.
More DragonFly Companion App Tracking Options – The DragonFly Companion App (available on the App Store) now allows users working with ARKit, Vive Tracker, Optitrack, or other specialist tracking systems to use an iPad or iPhone as a viewer. Unreal, Unity & Maya versions.
PIE Support for Livelink Data Streaming – Whether working with an optical motion capture system or an at-home volume, PIE Support for Livelink Data Streaming lets users visualize animation and actor performances in real-time in their virtual camera session. Unreal version only.
Blueprint API Extension – The extended BluePrints API enhances workflow flexibility by giving users the power to: set a recording name via an external source, playback their last recording via a button binding, and toggle back and forth between recording and reviewing, DragonFly 2.0 adapts to your workflow. Unreal version only.
Touch Screen Controls & Customizable HUDs – New touch screen controls in DragonFly Companion mean users can now control the virtual camera directly from the viewer with or without the GameVice controller accessory. Two new configurable HUD widgets for lens and shot name, including lower bar customization, let users change and customize settings quickly and easily for the perfect iPad or iPhone set up. Unreal, Unity & Maya versions.
Licensing and Availability:
DragonFly can be purchased as an annual subscription from the GlassBox website. Perpetual license options are available upon request. GlassBox Technologies has now added floating licenses to the available license types for DragonFly (all versions). Licenses can now be checked in and out by team members working on different machines whether at home or in-studio, making work from home collaboration and remote sessions easy.
DragonFly is available to download as a Free 30-Day Trial from the Glassbox website. Get in touch with the Glassbox team to schedule a one-on-one demo.
