Meta Platforms, Inc.
Video messaging device having a levitating camera

Abstract:

A video messaging device includes a levitating unit and a base unit that each have one or more electromagnets and one or more magnets that are positioned such that when the device is in use and the electromagnet(s) are activated, the electromagnet(s) repel each other or the magnet(s), causing the levitating unit, which includes a camera, to levitate above the base unit. The levitating unit may include a top member and a bottom member, in which the top member, which includes the camera, is configured to rotate relative to the bottom member of the levitating unit to counteract rotation of the bottom member of the levitating unit about a vertical axis relative to the base unit. Alternatively, the levitating unit may include a camera configured to capture a 360-degree field of view and software may be used to eliminate the effect of rotation of the camera about the vertical axis.