Virtual reality is becoming closer and closer to being technologically feasible. As electronics advance, cameras and video taking also become more advanced. A recent offspring of the technological advancement of the past few years is 360 degree video, made by using a 360 degree camera, which YouTube has just begun to support worldwide.

The first 360 camera released on the market, titled the 360cam, is not publicly released yet (however it is available for preorder from the company Giroptic). Still, the camera has been given out to some, and YouTube videos have begun to pop up in 360 degrees.

The camera has a specialized tripod which allows for rotation in a full circle. The camera itself is fairly small and simple to use, which may result in a plethora of videos in 360 degrees once it is officially released.

“The 360cam has been designed with quality and simplicity in mind,” Giroptic said about the product.

The camera records in 30 frames per second, which most YouTube videos are posted in. 360 video is best watched on a smartphone, because it allows the user to move the phone and the video at the same time.

MythBusters released a 360 degree video in late August. The video takes the viewer on a journey through the depths of the ocean, with sharks swimming all around. The camera can be taken 10 meters underwater for 30 minutes. The video is extremely interesting, and can be viewed below.

“I think it really increases the creative potential for videos,” Ahmad Zaidi, junior, said. 

With the upcoming release of 360 degree cameras, the average YouTube video may be drastically changing soon.