A 360-degree video is a type of video recording that captures a full spherical view of a scene, allowing viewers to pan and rotate their perspective while watching. This format enables immersive viewing experiences by covering all directions—up, down, left, right, and behind—simultaneously. The video is typically recorded using specialized omnidirectional cameras that employ multiple lenses or sensors to capture the entire field of view.
When played back using compatible software or platforms, such as virtual reality (VR) headsets or interactive video players on computers and mobile devices, the viewer can control the direction of view in real time. This interactivity differentiates 360-degree video from traditional video, which presents a fixed perspective.
360-degree video technology has been applied in various fields, including virtual tourism, real estate, education, journalism, and entertainment. Its development has been supported by advancements in camera hardware, video stitching software, and streaming technologies to manage the large file sizes associated with omnidirectional footage.
The format adheres to specific projection standards, such as equirectangular projection, to map the spherical video content onto a two-dimensional plane for storage and playback. Major online platforms, including YouTube and Facebook, support the uploading and viewing of 360-degree videos.
The concept and implementation of 360-degree video have evolved with the broader growth of immersive media and virtual reality, beginning to gain significant public attention in the mid-2010s.