Let’s face it, most of us likely regard ads as distractions. Pop-ups, whether it be the web page you’re using or the video advertisement you’re watching, are always annoying more than they’re stimulating.
But what if I told you that a trending phenomenon in online marketing has transformed ads into something so intriguing that people actually want to find it? Yup, we’re talking about 360 videos.
Before you start rolling your eyes at another marketing trick, please hear me out. It’s not only about demonstrating new technology; it’s about establishing rapport between brands and their followers.
They’re about drawing you into a narrative, making you feel like you’re an actor. And with products such as Apple Vision Pro and high-tech AR headsets taking the lead in 2025, that’s more important than ever.
So let’s jump right in and find out why 360-degree videos are changing the way brands communicate with their fans.
What Exactly Are 360-Degree Videos?
Imagine that you’re watching a video, but instead of being stuck in a frame, you have full viewing freedom. That’s what 360-degree videos are all about.
These immersive experiences let you navigate through a scene from every perspective, by moving your mouse, swiping your phone or tilting your head with a VR/AR headset such as Apple Vision Pro.
Here’s why they’re game-changers:
- Immersion:While videos typically take viewers on the inside of the image, 360 videos put them in the middle of the image and increase viewer engagement.
- Interactivity: They aren’t passive; you have the freedom to explore what to see, which makes it personal.
- Memorability: People recall immersive experiences much better than the generic experience, making these videos ideal for brand storytelling.
Who Should Watch These Videos?
If you are one of those people who likes to get involved with the narrative, watch these videos.
From virtual-travel addicts to tech-savvy Gen Zers, 360-degree videos cater to all types of users searching for an innovative way to consume content.
Why Are Brands Embracing 360-Degree Videos?
The short answer: they work. Let’s get that clear, though.
1. Storytelling Like Never Before
Every brand strives to tell a story, but with 360-degree videos it’s even more epic. So, imagine a tour operator taking you to the bustling streets of Tokyo or the white-sanded shores of Bali.
On Apple Vision Pro devices such as these, you’re not just viewing – you’re physically present, able to hear and see everything.
Key Benefits:
- Improved emotional engagement with the audience
- Convey complicated stories through the visual medium.
- More opportunities for creative expression.
Who Benefits Most? Agents, realtors and adventure operators can use this technology to present rather than tell their own stories.
2. Boosting Viewer Engagement
In our increasingly short attention spans, we have become more aware of this than ever before.
The interactive nature of 360 degree videos keeps viewers glued to their screens. When combined with AR-enabled devices, it becomes even more interesting as you interact with gestures and eye movements.
Key Features:
- People pay more attention to this video than other videos.
- Chancer of sharing and organic engagement in social media.
- Better retention due to novelty.
Perfect For: Social media marketers and bloggers who want to make a difference in an overpopulated online environment.
3. Driving Conversions
And let’s face it, opinions and preferences on the planet won’t count if they don’t make them into a reality.
360-degree videos are highly immersive, which has been shown to increase conversion rates.
Brands can use Apple Vision Pro and other similar tools to create product demos or immersive walkthroughs that look a lot like the real thing.
Key Benefits:
- More persuasive product demonstrations.
- Improved purchasing motivation in the post-immersion period.
- Ability to display features in a rich interactive context.
Recommended For:E-commerce stores and brands who want to “try-before-buy”.
4. Reaching a Broader Audience
YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, all make 360-degree videos easier than ever. The experience is better on AR equipment such as Apple Vision Pro, but viewers can watch these videos on their phone or desktop without being disappointed.
Key Features:
- Cross-platform compatibility.
- Easy sharing and embedding.
- Open to both tech-native and non-tech-native users.
Who Should Jump On This Trend? Every brand who wants to maximize its impact without turning away users without specialized equipment.
Best Practices for Creating 360-Degree Videos
So you’re sold and you want to give it a try. Great! But there’s more to making a 360-degree video than just shooting with your phone. Here are some tips:
- Plan Your Story:
- Consider the flow that viewers will take.
- Make sure the narrative works across multiple perspectives.
- Invest in Quality Equipment:
- Use 360 degree cameras (such as the Insta360 or the GoPro Max).
- Make sure to set it in high quality so that it looks nice.
- Leverage AR Capabilities:
- When using gadgets such as Apple Vision Pro, use AR components for an immersive experience.
- Place audio and interactive overlays to keep viewers engaged.
- Optimize for Platforms:
- Personalize your video for YouTube and Facebook.
- Run playback to ensure smooth playback.
- Engage the Viewer:
- Provide clues or warnings that inform the audience where to look.
- Make the experience active and exciting.
Real-World Success Stories
Examples are the best teachers, right? Now let’s take a look at a few companies that hit the mark on 360 videos:
- National Geographic: Their “Explore the Amazon” video takes you on a rainforest journey where you literally experience the wilderness yourself.
- IKEA:They used 360-degree videos and made it so people could “try out” furniture in virtual rooms, which drove traffic to their website.
- Apple Vision Pro Demos: Apple demoed the capabilities of its AR headset through a series of immersive scenarios where users can experience apps, environments and products in incredible 360-degree detail.
Challenges to Consider
Of course, no technology comes without its obstacles. The following are some of the problems brands may encounter:
- Cost: The 360-degree video creation is quite expensive
- Technical Expertise:Not all teams are equipped to create and edit these videos.
- Accessibility: Users may not be able to understand how to engage with these videos and would need education.
Are 360-Degree Videos Worth It?
Amidst an increasingly competitive marketplace, 360 degree videos provide an unconventional opportunity to impress and resonate with your audiences.
They’re immersive, memorable, and they’re great for conversions. With devices such as Apple Vision Pro and other AR headsets, there’s never been more opportunity for these videos to alter brand experiences.
So whether you’re a marketer who wants to up your campaigns or a curious consumer who likes to stay up-to-date with tech, these videos have something for everyone.
Have you ever used or seen a 360-degree video? Tell us about your experience below — keep the dialogue going!