Now that Google and YouTube are well into the the 360 craze, Facebook will be implementing 360 image compatibility within the next couple of weeks.
Users will be able to use a mouse to view 360 images, touch and drag with touch devices, or use VR headsets to view the 360 content.
VR here to stay
360 content has been hitting major strides in 2016. The release of the $15 Google Cardboard 2 and a profusion of cheap China brand headsets such as VR Box, ShineCon and the slightly pricier, but community recommended BoboVR Z4 (4th gen BoboVR) with built-in headphones has helped the industry along immensely.
Google has also released Google Cardboard app, which along with providing an easy method to take 360 photos, also provides a community portal to sharing and viewing 360 photos others have taken.
Premium VR equipment from $100-1000
There is almost more expensive gear available, Facebook owned Oculus Rift, HTC/Valve Vive, Playstation VR, and Gear VR by Samsung. All of these provide a more upscale VR experience than the aforementioned products, but the cost of these range from about $100 for the Samsung VR, up into $1000+ for the Oculus Rift and Vive.
Best to start slow before diving in
Our suggestion, is to get your feet wet with the very inexpensive Google Cardboard 2, or if a bit more serious, the BoboVR Z4, before going full plunge with the more expensive devices.
In addition to 3D images, there are already a plethora of ways to use a VR device, including games, movies and virtual location tours.
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