Google-owned YouTube is finally jumping into virtual reality.
YouTube has announced in a blog post that the video sharing website is now supporting VR video, a new functionality which gives users access to 360-degree videos. This new feature — together with a smartphone and a Google Cardboard viewer — will make users feel as if they are actually in the scene.
"Using the same tricks that we humans use to see the world, VR video gives you a sense of depth as you look around in every direction. Near things look near, far things look far," says YouTube in its post. "So if you were excited about 360° videos, this is pretty freakin’ cool."
YouTube explains that users need to search for a VR video on the website first. It specifically mentions two VR videos that can already be viewed: "TOMS Shoes Giving Trip" and "Hunger Games Experience."
Users must then tap the Cardboard icon before placing the smartphone into the Cardboard viewer, and they're all set for a new viewing experience.
YouTube adds that video creators who wish to share their very own VR videos should check out available technologies like Jump to capture videos.
The media company also shared another important update: users can now watch existing videos with the use of Google Cardboard, as YouTube is bringing in a new "Cardboard" option on the watch page menu.
All users need to do is select a video they want to watch, tap the Cardboard option and drop their phones into the Cardboard Viewer and they're off to experience watching YouTube videos, movie theater-style.
"YouTube is about democratizing," says Kurt Wilms, senior product manager for YouTube VR. "It's about bringing this kind of video to everyone."
Google Cardboard viewers can be bought online, with some kits obtainable for as low as $14.99.
Excited users who want to get first dibs on YouTube's newest offering should now head over to Google Play and grab the latest YouTube app.
