Ambicast Adds Audio To Photos For An Even More Immersive Experience
June 2, 2012
It's certainly tough to compete for originality in the App Store, since nearly every angle is covered by now. However, a social-networking app released yesterday, Ambicast, may just have what it takes to stand out in the lineup of photo sharing services.
Ambicast is described by the developer, Dennis Franke, as Instagram-like with "a 10 second audio recording to share the atmosphere." Normally, I don't put much stock in marketing statements, but there is definitely some truth to this.
For example, you're sitting at a stream and snap a photo of the rushing water with trees and other foliage lining the banks. Sure, that's a great photo, and most viewers can imagine the moment. Although, even the brief sound of churning, splashing, and/or trickling water can add significantly more to the viewer's imagination.
So, why not just use a video camera? In my opinion, a photo with a very brief audio clip, especially one that's able to be repeated in a person's mind, can provide the initial stimulation for a setting with room for imagination and personal modifications to the scene.
Unfortunately, there is a flaw to the concept, a possibility of unrelated sound to the visuals. An example for this would be taking a photo of a picnic in the park and having an audio clip strictly of background chatter. In my opinion, the two don't fit, creating an awkwardness and almost obnoxious experience. It may seem strange, but the combination has to feel at least somewhat cliche.
The app and service are free, though content is lacking a bit thus far since the service is quite new. Nevertheless, it is worth taking a look at what others have come up with, which doesn't require an account. Obviously, you will need an account to post content.
Ambicast is compatible with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, 32GB and 64GB third generation iPod touch, fourth generation iPod touch and newer running iOS 4.3 or later, and available in the App Store as a free download.
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