Linkflow Co., a South Korean startup, has developed a neck-worn camera system that captures the scene at a full 360 degrees around the camera.

The high-performance VR-supporting device dubbed FITT360 was conceptualized to ensure a photoshoot anywhere and anytime with both hands free, according to Kim Yong-kuk, CEO of Linkflow.

The company, a spin-off from Samsung Electronics in 2016, is operated with professional engineers with more than 15 years of career in Samsung’s mobile communication unit. Kim worked for Samsung Electronics as a software developer. He won an in-house venture contest called C Lab for his idea of the body-worn camera system in May 2015. After training for half a year, Kim and four members left the company to create Linkflow.

What makes his novelty different from competitors is anti-shaking software to stabilize image. "Rival bodycams are vulnerable to shaking while in movement, making it hard to watch those images. We have already completed patent filings of this technology,” Kim said.

The company’s initial focus is industrial markets such as construction, escort service, military and security applications. It also developed a shoulder-worn model with a large battery dedicated to business customers. Linkflow is in talks with several potential customers including ALSOK, a Japanese security company, to export FITT360 cameras.

"Products for business customers will be a stable source of cash in a short term, but we will explore the global market with products for consumers for a long term strategy,” he added.

In July, Linkflow attracted additional investors including Lotte Accelerator and BA Partner who brought some 1 billion won in total. The company plans to attract would-be buyers on crowdfunding site Kickstarter in December with a goal of delivery by April of next year. Delivery through Amazon may be another option.

By Oh Chan-jong

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