In 2016 the USA Today Network unveiled its first branded news experience VRtually There, showcasing immersive content focused on national news coverage. Today, the network has announced season two, debuting with exclusive partner XYZ to deliver more adventure and VIP experiences for virtual reality (VR) audiences.
VRtually There episodes will be released every Tuesday 4pm EST. During the programmes run, viewers will get to see everything from national adventures to extreme sports to the wonders of nature. The first episode will feature hang gliding in Hawaii, Bristlecone National Park and a ride in the Goodyear Blimp.
“During the inaugural season of “VRtually There” we learned an incredible amount about what goes into creating VR content that appeals to both viewers and advertisers. With more than six million views in our debut year we’re now perfectly positioned to deliver even more compelling stories in season two, all while further perfecting the opportunities we can offer brands within an immersive format like virtual reality,” said Sr. Vice President of USA TODAY NETWORK Kelly Andresen in a statement.
The programme continues USA Today’s reach into VR and 360-degree content which began back in 2015. That year the network released Blue Angels, an immersive piece that became one of the most watched 360-degree videos on Facebook. Then in 2016, the company launched branded content campaigns for Honda, Toyota and Nest, followed by livestreaming the Presidential inauguration in 2017.
To watch VRtually There, viewers can access the content via Google Play and YouTube. There’s also the USA Today VR app for mobile.
VRFocus will continue its coverage of USA Today, reporting back with the latest announcements.