Google Presents VR180 Video Format And Camera That Shoots VR In High Fidelity Half 360-Degree View

VidCon is rocking and rolling in Anaheim, California, and with it has come a number of announcements from Google. Google most notably just announced VR180 video format that will enable content creators to develop VR-friendly content. They also just revealed that they are working with manufacturers to bring new affordable VR180-friendly cameras to market.

VR videos are one of the most popular ways to experience VR, however, they can be tricky for everyday creators to make in 360 degrees. Google’s solution was to work with their Daydream team in order to develop the VR180 format. According to Frank Rodriguez,Google’s Product Manager, “VR180 video focuses on what’s in front of you, are high resolution, and look great on desktop and on mobile.”
VR180 glasses
Google's YouTube division is also collaborating with YI, Lenovo, and LG to make VR-friendly cameras at an affordable price point. The company is also offering their VR180 certification program to other manufacturers like Z CAM. The videos will be able to be viewed on Google Cardboard, Daydream, and PSVR.

YT VR180 final2 dark

Content creators will not need any special training to use this new technology. Rodriguez noted, “For creators, you’ll be able to set up and film your videos the way you normally would with any other camera. And, soon, you'll be able to edit using familiar tools like Adobe Premiere Pro. From vlogs, to makeup tutorials to music videos - your videos will work great in VR.” Content creators will also be able to do live streams without any special preparation. 

Google and YouTube had a few other VidCon announcements up their sleeves. Over the next few weeks the YouTube mobile app will allow users to watch videos in whatever size they prefer. YouTube TV will soon be available in Dallas-Fort Worth, Washington, D.C., Houston, Atlanta, Phoenix, Detroit, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Orlando-Daytona Beach-Melbourne, and Charlotte, while the YouTube sharing feature will be available throughout the United States and Latin America. YouTube also announced a slew of new YouTube Red original content.

Content creators will be able to catch a sneak peak of VR180 soon and eligible creators can apply to loan a VR180-enabled camera from a YouTube Space. You can learn more here.