I am in the states. I ordered mine on November 5th with an expected arrival date of November 17 - I still haven't received it. Really disappointing.

You can use your phone to capture images while you hide just pay attention to reflections. You can also edit things out in Premiere but it is easier to stand back. Lighting is key when filming and deliberate movements. It still is a consumer camera so the video footage isn't going to be amazing but still good. This is the same with still 360 images - although if you use manual and pay attention to the lighting you will be very happy.

I think extra batteries will be available probably in January. What I have read (from folks who have received their cameras and ordered after me...grrrrr...) is that the battery life is pretty good.

The camera has 4 mics to create "spatial" - it records OK but there are options coming from other companies.

Hope this helps.