YouTube Rolls Out Live 360 Degree Video Streaming

In addition, it announced videos on its service could now be enhanced with “spatial audio”, which simulates the effect of sounds coming from different directions and distances.

Video sharing platform, YouTube, on Monday, began supporting 360-degree live streaming and spatial audio on its service.

In addition, it announced videos on its service could now be enhanced with “spatial audio”, which simulates the effect of sounds coming from different directions and distances.

With 360-degree video, users can look in any direction they want in a live video and really feel enveloped by the action. The company is pitching it as a way to feel like you’re truly there, at an event that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend.

YouTube last year introduced support for the 360-degree videos, and according to the Google-owned platform, the new service will be used for select performances from the Coachella music and arts festival this weekend, in California.

“And after years of live streaming Coachella for fans around the world who can’t attend the festival, this year we’re bringing you the festival like never before by live streaming select artist performances in 360 degrees this weekend,” said Neal Mohan, Chief Product Officer, YouTube in a blog post.

The announcements coincided with the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) conference in Las Vegas, where several new virtual reality products are being launched.

Mohan asserted that the San Bruno California based company has also been working with companies like VideoStitch and Two Big Ears to make their software compatible with 360-degree live streams or spatial audio on YouTube.

“We’ll also make 360-degree live streaming and spatial audio technologies available at all YouTube Space locations around the globe, so you can take it for a spin,” he said.

Facebook, last week delved into the Virtual Reality market with the launch of a 360° camera and a content hub for livestreaming.