Images: Microsoft's 3D photo album

by Bill Detwiler  |  August 3, 2006, 3:40am PDT  |  Image 1 of 4

Based on technology developed at the University of Washington, Microsoft's Photosynth browser can draw from personal photos or shots culled from photo-sharing sites to create a 3D space users can "walk around" in.

Here, for instance, selected pictures of Paris' famed Notre Dame cathedral (left) are assembled into a 3D model around a relatively simple rendering of the facade (right), based on the position the photographer was in when each shot was taken--a puzzle the program solves using various algorithms.

Viewers use the interface (bottom) to move around the space: The program shuttles them to the next shot while providing renderings that create the illusion of a seamless environment.

Photosynth also lets its users find shots that are similar to a given photo--a historical view taken from the same vantage point, for example.

Image 1 of 4

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Bill Detwiler

About Bill Detwiler

Bill Detwiler is Head Technology Editor of TechRepublic. Previously, he worked as a Support Tech and IT Manager in the social research and energy industries.

Bill Detwiler

Bill Detwiler
Bill Detwiler is Head Technology Editor for TechRepublic. Previously he worked as a Technical Support Associate and Information Technology Manager in the social research and energy industries. Bill is a Microsoft Certified Professional with experience in Windows administration, data management, desktop support, and system security.

Bill Detwiler

Bill Detwiler
Bill Detwiler has nothing to disclose. He doesn't hold investments in the technology companies he covers.