Skip to content
CallPano Home
Glossary

The language behind a live panoramic call

Last updated:

For hosts and guests learning how live panoramic calls work

A live panoramic call combines a camera format, a browser connection, and controls that let each guest choose where to look. These short definitions separate those pieces so you can ask better setup questions, understand practical limits, and choose a workflow that fits the conversation.

30 trial participant-minutes. No credit card required to start.

CallPano setup with an Insta360 camera, a panoramic video meeting, AR glasses, and a VR headset

One live environment. Independent views. Each participant chooses where to look, without changing anyone else’s view.

Similar labels can describe very different experiences

A camera sold as 360° may expose only a cropped webcam feed. An immersive experience might be a recorded tour rather than a live conversation. Understanding the terms helps you distinguish what the camera captures, what reaches the browser, and what a guest can actually control before you invite anyone.

Understand the image format

Read equirectangular video to learn why a panoramic source differs from an ordinary rectangular webcam image.

Separate immersion from equipment

Explore immersive video conferencing and why independently controlled views do not require a headset.

Check the connection chain

Learn about 360° camera webcam mode and WebRTC, two different parts of getting live camera video into a browser call.

Choose a live workflow

See live virtual tour for the difference between a conversation on location and a tour captured beforehand.

The Difference

Move from definitions to a tested call

Start with what a 360° video call is, then use the X5 setup guide to check the camera workflow. Interactive panoramic viewing requires full equirectangular camera output, not a flat image with a panoramic label. Browser permissions, audio, and connection quality still need a real test with another participant.

Quick Start

From room to live 360° in three steps

  1. 1

    Create a Room

    Create your host account and set up a room from the dashboard. Schedule your meeting if you want to arrange it in advance.

  2. 2

    Share the Link

    Send the invitation to your participants. Guests use a supported browser without a CallPano account or app download. Test permissions and room access before the session.

  3. 3

    Go Live in 360°

    Test an Insta360 X4 or X5 through a compatible webcam mode that supplies full panoramic output, not just a flat webcam feed. Camera firmware, computer, and browser compatibility matter. Once the panorama is working, guests can look around independently.

Start free. Choose the plan that fits.

30 trial participant-minutes for new accounts, not a monthly reset. No credit card required to start.

Free
30trial participant-minutes for new accounts
Starter
$29per month
Pro
$99per month
Enterprise
$299per month

Allowances and limits vary by plan. View Plans for participant-minutes, rooms, and billing details.

Frequently asked questions

Which definition should I read first?

Begin with equirectangular video if you are choosing camera output. Begin with live virtual tour if you are deciding between a recorded experience and a live walkthrough.

Does 360° always mean viewers can look around?

No. The camera must supply a complete panorama, and the calling interface must render it interactively. A cropped or reframed feed remains flat even when it comes from a 360° camera.

Are immersive calls always VR calls?

No. Independent panoramic viewing can work on a normal screen in a supported browser. Optional headset WebXR viewing depends on the device and browser; CallPano has no native Quest app.

Where can I find instructions rather than definitions?

Open the guides hub for camera setup, optional Quest browser joining, and preparation checklists. Definitions explain concepts; guides help you test a particular workflow.

Know the terms. Then check the setup.

Use the practical guides to turn the definitions into a camera test, property tour, or site discussion.

No credit card required to start.