Microsoft Live Labs has launched a public version of Photosynth, a Web tool that uses the overlapping information in a set of still photos taken in a space to create a 3D mapping between the images. I put together a quick collage of the product "museum" space in my office - the more pictures you take from different positions, the better. When viewing, use "f" for full screen and "ctrl" to toggle to the data points.
Potential applications to user research include modeling observed work environments when videotaping is not allowed or impractical. There's also the possibility of using Photosynth to create 3D views of products or concepts, although it's better suited for large spaces than close ups. But for one example, see this joystick and note how you can move around it from all sides.
Like IBM's Many Eyes for text and data visualization, all Photosynths currently created are publicly viewable. Understandably the site has a high traffic load so prepare to be patient.
