Last Updated on May 27, 2024 by Jhonni Jets
Virtual reality has transitioned from science fiction fantasy to reality in just a few short years. Powerful mobile devices like iPhone and iPad, coupled with inexpensive and easy to use VR headsets, have brought immersive virtual worlds into our pockets. The VR market is exploding and developers are rushing to create engaging and innovative apps that take advantage of this new platform. Here are 6 of the best iOS VR apps currently available that showcase the amazing potential of mobile virtual reality.
1. Void VR Roller Coaster
One of the most thrilling early VR experiences is the roller coaster ride. Void VR Roller Coaster delivers exactly that – it puts you in the front car of various looping and twisting steel coasters so you feel like you’re racing through the track at breakneck speeds. Developed by Void VR and powered by the Unreal Engine, the visuals and physics of this app make the sense of speed, g-forces and twists feel incredibly realistic. You really feel like you’re on a wild ride. Void offers a variety of coasters including one modeled after real-life rides from theme parks like Six Flags. The coaster experience is further elevated by the use of 3D spatialized audio that makes it seem like the sounds of rushing wind and clicking tracks are all around you. Void VR Roller Coaster is one of the best showcases for the immersive potential of VR.
2. Netflix
One of the biggest destinations on any device is Netflix, and the VR version is an excellent showcase for 360 video. By donning a cardboard headset, iPhone owners are transported into wonderful cinematic worlds through Netflix’s large catalog of immersive content. A particular standout is the series “Next VR Live,” which places viewers right at music performances, comedy shows, sporting events and more as if they have front row seats. Netflix has also developed its own short VR films that are beautiful technical showcases. The Netflix app automatically detects when a headset is attached and optimizes the video playback for VR. It’s an incredibly easy way to enjoy high quality cinematic VR content without having to locate and sideload individual videos. Netflix leads the way for video streaming in virtual reality.
3. Google Spotlight Stories
Google’s experimental VR film studio Spotlight Stories has produced some of the most polished and compelling VR narrative experiences to date. Their storytelling often pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in this new medium. Released titles like “Pearl” transport viewers to fantastical worlds with visuals unlike any traditional film. What makes the Spotlight Stories app so great is that it delivers complete cinematic stories crafted for VR by top Hollywood talent, rather than just scenes or tech demos. Episodes can be experienced either on a mobile headset or on more powerful VR systems. The app compiles all Spotlight Stories content in one place for easy discovery and viewing. It’s an incredible showcase for the storytelling potential of immersive virtual reality.
4. YouTube VR
YouTube brings the vast diversity of its video platform to virtual reality. The YouTube VR app allows searching through all manner of 360 video content, from nature documentaries to extreme sports to comedy sketches. YouTube has also funded the production of exclusive VR video series and films. Particularly exciting are videos that make use of 3D binaural audio for an extra sense of realism and immersion. YouTube VR supports just about any cardboard-style phone viewer as well as high-end headsets. It’s the best way to easily access the ever-growing selection of mainstream and niche 360 videos without leaving the app store. YouTube shows how a VR platform can thrive by leveraging an enormous existing community of video creators and fans.
5. Nature Treks VR
Sometimes you just want to escape to beautiful natural environments without leaving your house. Nature Treks VR transports users to some of the most picturesque and relaxing spots on Earth. Using 360 photography and video, you can “visit” places like Yosemite Valley, Hawaii volcanoes, Alaskan glaciers, Costa Rican rainforests and more. High resolution visuals and binaural audio make it seem like you’re really there. The curated collection focuses on showcasing pristine wilderness areas rather than random scenes. Nature Treks VR is wonderful for stress relief, inspiration or just daydreaming that you’re somewhere else. It proves VR’s potential as an accessible window to places we might not otherwise experience firsthand.
6. Thumper: Pocket Edition
Thumper is a rhythm violence game that’s even more intense and immersive in VR. As a space beetle racing down a twisted track, you smash buttons in time to a pounding industrial soundtrack. Sound and visuals perfectly sync to provide flashes of feedback for perfect hits while bombarding your senses. Due to its intensity, playing Thumper in VR can trigger symptoms like motion sickness for some. But handled in short bursts, it deliver a truly unique musical/gaming experience. Ported to Cardboard, Gear VR and Daydream, the “Pocket Edition” of Thumper is as thrilling as the PC/console versions. Developed by Drool, it proves how rhythm gaming is a perfect genre for virtual reality.
Conclusion
These 6 apps showcase just a sampling of the wonderful experiences currently available for iOS virtual reality. From animated stories and interactive worlds to relaxing nature simulations and intense rhythm games, there is a rich diversity of content. As mobile VR headsets get more affordable and comfortable, and as high-powered phone processors provide high resolution graphics, the immersive experiences will only continue improving. Major developers are also funding exclusive VR content. The future is bright for this innovative new medium. iOS will remain at the forefront of bringing virtual worlds into our pockets for inspiration, connection and simple everyday wonder. Downloading any of these top VR apps is a gateway to this new frontier of interactive entertainment and creativity.