Twitter Inc (NYSE:TWTR) has launched 360-degree live streams via Periscope. A red badge distinguishes the 360-degree live videos from ordinary videos. This will now allow users of the microblogging platform to interact and get a behind-the-scenes look of live broadcasts.
“Starting today, you can check out live, interactive 360 videos from interesting broadcasters and explore what’s happening with them,” wrote Twitter in an online posting.
The 360-degree video feature has initially been made available to a small number of users but it will be rolled out to more people in the weeks to follow.
Universal navigation techniques
The navigation techniques for Twitter’s 360-degree video are the same as with other offerings. To be able to watch a different angle in a live stream, for instance, all one needs is to turn the mobile device or tap and scrolling around the display area. With regards to watching a 360-degree video on a computer, one can change the point of view by clicking and dragging.
Twitter’s first 360-degree live video was from Alex Pettitt, a prolific broadcaster. It captured a Florida sunset and allowed users of Twitter to see it from varying points of view. To record videos in 360-degrees requires the use of special cameras. Some of the cameras available are compatible with mobile devices that have been released in the last two years. With Twitter already having fully integrated its Periscope live-streaming service into its mobile applications, users won’t need to install Periscope on their mobile devices in order to enjoy the 360-degree video feature once it is rolled out to everyone.
Sights on the future
It is believed that the 360-degree feature is Twitter’s first step into making a foray into virtual reality. Less than half a year ago, the social media company recruited Alessandro Sabatelli, a former Apple designer, as the director of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. The company also briefly hired a Virtual reality program manager two months ago.
In Wednesday’s trading session, Twitter Inc edged downwards by 1.32% to close the day at $16.39 a share.