Hulu launched its virtual reality app on Thursday, along with the streaming site’s first VR original content. The VR app lets Hulu users watch their shows and movies with a Samsung Gear VR headset.
The debut of the app puts Hulu on the same page as its rival Netflix — the company released their VR app last fall. What separates the Hulu app from the Netflix VR app is the original virtual-reality programing. For example, YouTube star Freddie Wong has a short film called The Big One about a meteor shower turned apocalyptic nightmare, and the director of the Madagascar films has a short called Invasion! about aliens taking over the planet.
“We are at the very beginning of VR and like everyone involved in VR technology and content, we at Hulu, have a lot of learn about what makes for a great VR experience in the eyes of the viewer,” said Ben Smith, Hulu’s head of experience, in a post announcing the app release.
To create a natural environment, the app features a computer-generated “living room” for users to watch 360-degree video content.
“Just like with VR content, the 360 degree environments in the Hulu app transport viewers into immersive settings to watch their favorite show: sitting in a comfortable living room, watching a movie in a big screen theatre, or kicking back on a scenic beach,” said Smith. “Viewers can interact with each 360-degree environment and change the ambience which includes outside scenes, lighting and look and feel to their preference.”
While the VR app is currently only compatible with a Samsung Gear VR headset, Hulu plans to support other devices and platforms in the future.
