Sky launches VR app

European satcaster Sky is ramping up its efforts in the virtual reality (VR) space still further with the launch of an app carrying content from partners including Disney.

Gary Davey

Sky, which unveiled a dedicated VR studio in March, is launching the Sky VR app offering 360-degree videos including Star Wars: Red Carpet, Anthony Joshua: Becoming World Champion and clips from Disney’s The Jungle Book.

VR experiences will also be available to coincide with the app’s debut, including Sky Sports: Closer featuring David Beckham and the previously announced English National Ballet production of Giselle.

Sky is also commissioning a series of high-end VR experiences under its Sky VR Exclusives label, produced in-house by its own studios as well as third party producers.

The app will contain 20 pieces of 360-degree video content at launch from providers including Sky, Disney, Fox Innovation Lab, Warner Bros and Jaunt, the California-based studio which Sky has previously invested in.

Gary Davey, Sky’s MD of content, said: “Interest in VR content is building, generating more excitement every day. We are just at the beginning of our VR journey at Sky, launching Sky VR studios earlier this year and we are already breaking new ground.

“Now comes the creative challenge of deploying this immersive experience with engaging story-telling. I am a big believer.”

The app is able to be used with a Google Cardboard headset, Samsung Gear VR and Oculus Rift. It is available in the UK, Italy, Germany, Austria, Australia, New Zealand, France and the US.