Sports Illustrated joins the VR bandwagon with the release of new virtual reality content that takes readers to the photo shoot locations of their favorite SI Swimsuit models.
After partnering with award-winning VR company Wevr, Sports Illustrated decides to launch an exclusive VR content while featuring the latest VR technology in the market.
"This year's virtual reality shoot answers the question we get every day: What is it like to be on a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit photo shoot?" says Creative Director Christopher Hercik.
The photo shoot features former cover models Irina Shayk, Hannah Davis and Nina Agdal with the location being set on the beaches of the Dominican Republic.
According to the company, its brand new VR content was shot for a couple of days during the same time when the photo and video shoots were also happening. It features varying experiences of closer and more intimate access to the featured models, the breathtaking surroundings and on-the-set footage where readers can also see the production staff and crew.
"Our VR content will feature behind-the-scenes experiences from SI Swimsuit shoots with some of the world's most beautiful models at some of the most exotic locations on the planet," says Sports Illustrated.
As part of the new VR initiative, the company released new iOS and Android apps that users can access through a compatible headset. With these free apps, users can experience various content such as news, videos, photos and a wide array of virtual reality clips.
Dubbed "Swimsuit Issue 2016," readers can have access to the company's featured photos of the year along with the ability to explore the various sections of the app. These include the "Collection" section that features all of the past models (including SI's first plus-size model Ashley Graham) who have graced the magazine's cover, and the "Swim Daily" section that will include contents from the company's Swim Daily blog. Through this section, readers can get the latest news, photos and updates on their favorite SI Swimsuit models.
Another section is the "Virtual" section that, as the name implies, will allow readers to enjoy virtual reality viewing that is similar to the experience when using the Samsung Gear VR and the Google Cardboard.
Readers can choose between two content versions: a premium version that includes one pair of Google Cardboard for the price of $9.99 and a regular version that costs $7.99. Interested subscribers can also choose to order a pair of Cardboard goggles for the price of $2.49.
