Sky has launched a new virtual reality app as it looks to offer viewers increasingly immersive content.
The app, which can be used with Google Cardboard, Samsung Gear VR and Oculus Rift, will showcase around 20 different pieces of 360-degree video content from Sky, Disney, Fox Innovation Lab, Warner Brothers, Baobab Studios, Jaunt, Innerspace and Surround Vision – including Star Wars: Red Carpet, Anthony Joshua: Becoming World Champion and clips from Disney’s The Jungle Book.
To coincide with the launch, Sky is also revealing two new VR experiences: Sky Sports: Closer featuring David Beckham, and a performance from English National Ballet’s production of Giselle.
“We are just at the beginning of our VR journey at Sky, launching Sky VR studios earlier this year and we are already breaking new ground,” said managing director Gary Davey.
“Now comes the creative challenge of deploying this immersive experience with engaging story-telling. I am a big believer.”
Stephen Nuttall, senior director at Google and YouTube, said: “Great storytelling from Sky, in VR, for free on YouTube, and all accessible through Google Cardboard – a winning combination.
“Whether you’re passionate for sports or Beckham – or both – this great partnership enables wonderful VR experiences for all to enjoy.”
Sky said it has no immediate plans to develop an advertising proposition within the app, but said it wants to be at the forefront of the development of VR.
“At the moment, we just want to make sure that as many people as possible can access the content we’re creating,” Sky told Newsline.
