2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ to Support VR Across Multiple Platforms
By Casey Hawkins
The World Cup is one of the most globally watched sporting events, and this year’s edition will feature new ways to see games using VR and AR. The BBC, Fox Sports and Telemundo are each supporting these platforms in a variety of ways, and here is a quick guide for what you can expect from each network if you are watching here in the United States.
Brazil’s star forward Neymar is one of the most dynamic and exciting players to watch at this year’s World Cup.
BBC
- All 33 broadcasted matches will be available to watch in VR through the “BBC Sport VR – FIFA World Cup Russia 2018” app, which will be available sometime before June 14 on iOS, Android, Samsung Gear VR, Oculus Go, Playstation VR, Daydream and Cardboard.
- Multiple viewpoints for watching the games will be supported, ranging from a box seat within the stadium to behind the goal.
- When games aren’t happening, users will have access to live stats and daily highlight packages.
Fox Sports
- All 64 games of the tournament will be available to watch in VR through the “Fox Sports Go” app, available for iOS and Android, in a suite-like view similar to the BBC’s.
- “Social VR” will be supported, which will allow you to watch games with your friends in a shared virtual space through Facebook.
- Access to pre-produced-360-degree features.
Telemundo
- Broadcasted matches will be available in “super wide angle feed” through the “Telemundo Deportes En Vivo” app.
- Select AR content including 2D feeds, 180-degree views, 360-degree short videos and near-live multi-angle clips will be available.
- Available both on mobile and standard headsets.
Casey Hawkins is a recent graduate of Hendrix College, and now a full-time writer and editor at VR Voice.
