(Image Credit: iStockPhoto/Stefano Tinti)
Pay-TV broadcaster Sky, long active in virtual reality through investments in startups like Jaunt, has announced a more direct commitment to VR content with the launch of a dedicated production unit, Sky VR Studio.
Gary Davey, Managing Director of Content at Sky, said: “Sky VR Studio allows us to add a new dimension to storytelling, taking viewers to extraordinary places and offering a unique perspective on a whole host of events. The development of VR technology is moving at an incredible pace and excitement is building about its potential.”
Sport has often been an example of how VR can improve the viewing experience
The new studio will focus initially on sports content, before expanding into general entertainment and news over the coming years. Sky plans to build its own VR delivery platform in time, but will begin by distributing content via established third-party services such as Facebook 360, Oculus, and YouTube 360.
“Our expertise across a wide range of video content, from original drama to live sport, gives us a unique ability to bring VR to life for customers. This is just the start and we’re looking forward to creating more amazing VR content and exploring the possibilities with our tech and content partners,” Davey added.
It is unsurprising Sky is starting its VR efforts with sport. The company has invested heavily in exclusive rights to high-profile live events—most notably Premier League matches—which attract large audiences and drive subscriptions. Enhancing those events with immersive VR experiences can increase viewer engagement and encourage greater use of Sky’s services.
VR Studio allows us to add a new dimension to storytelling, taking viewers to extraordinary places and offering a unique perspective
Sporting content has already shown how immersive technology can deepen viewers’ connection to events. For example, Microsoft demonstrated how its HoloLens augmented reality headset could enhance NFL broadcasts by projecting holograms into the living room to display detailed player statistics, fantasy football updates, and realistic stadium reconstructions.
Sky’s initial VR productions will be more modest than those large-scale AR demos. Early releases include two Formula One features focused on Williams Martini Racing, along with VR experiences tied to the Tour de France and selected boxing events.
After sports, news and documentary-style programming are a likely next step for Sky VR Studio. Immersive journalism has already been used to powerful effect: for instance, projects have created 360-degree virtual tours to convey the human and physical impact of conflicts and crises.
Sky has indicated its initial VR content will be offered free of charge, although it is possible that some premium VR experiences may become monetized in the future as the platform develops and production values rise.
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