YoCam is uniquely portable, practical and was created by a UAB alumnus. (Photo from YoCam's Kickstarter website).April Oberman - Staff Writeraprildob@uab.edu
Ray Yang, Ph. D., a UAB alumnus, used the knowledge he gained from our university to change his world. Yang is the co-creator of the YoCam, a portable, multi-use camera made by Mofily.
“During the past decade, I witnessed many new camera brands coming out and they are challenging traditional cameras, for example, GoPro, DropCam, dash camera, baby monitor and so many more. But sooner or later, I found out that I have spent thousands of dollar to buy all of these for many different purposes. Then I ask myself, ‘What if there is one type of camera that can do all of them at once?’ [Our company could make one] Just like the iPhone does the jobs of so many devices: traditional phone, mp3 music player, portable DVD player and even part of your laptop. Why can't we make something that can meet most of your needs for these emerging new cameras? This is why we make YoCam,” Yang said.
The YoCam is an extremely portable waterproof camera, which means you can use it as an action camera like the GoPro for a range of activities. It can be used as a webcam, a home safety monitor, a baby monitor or a dash camera. Yang stresses that the YoCam is simple to use for everyone and is affordably priced.
“We are also building a mobile app for YoCam that you can use to easily edit and publish your photos instantly as a story on many social media platforms. You can even use the same app to print those photo out and make it as a hard copy photo book to keep at home,” Yang said.
Yang believes that the motivation behind the YoCam is his passion about electronics. Growing up, Yang was fascinated with cameras. However, Yang’s Ph.D. major is actually biochemistry and molecular genetics.
“Frankly speaking, what I have learned in textbooks and in the laboratory during my Ph.D. did not contribute much to YoCam. However, my Ph.D. training plays a critical role in helping me and our team in developing YoCam. During my training, I have mastered how to think critically, plan comprehensively, carry out project deliberately and present my work professionally and precisely,” Yang said.
Yang and his team at Mofily have plans to continue to create and produce electronics.
“YoCam is just the beginning of our company. We have so many great products coming out this year and in the future: camera, smart home appliances, drone, smart hubs, etc. We really look forward to making more great products and changing people’s life with our products,” Yang said.
