With most virtual reality content you would need to have a compatible virtual reality headset on hand to enjoy it. That doesn’t seem to be the case with Samsung’s Milk VR application as they have just launched the app onto Google Play for just about anyone to take advantage of the experience. While it doesn’t appear to work with every single device type, it doesn’t seem to be limited to just Samsung handsets which opens up its potential user base, although the app’s description does state that it is only compatible with the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge, Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, and Galaxy S6 Edge+. Granted, any of the content inside of the Milk VR app is likely enjoyed best through the Gear VR, which you do need to have a compatible Samsung smartphone to use.
Although VR content is going to feel much more immersive and seem more enjoyable through the lenses of something like the Gear VR, through the Milk VR app the headset is certainly not needed as it takes advantage of the device’s sensors to determine what direction the user is trying to look, thus allowing the user to feel like the experience is in virtual reality in a way. In addition to viewing the VR content within the application, Samsung states that users can also download the content so it can be viewed offline when and where there is no internet connection available to users, something which should help to increase the interest. Videos can also be downloaded to be used within the Gear VR headset for those who have it.
While moving the device around and letting the app and phone sensors do all the work might be more fun and seem more immersive, those who aren’t keen on spinning around to see every side of a 360-degree video can simply use the built-in touch navigation to pan the video to another side, this way they can stay put and still enjoy seeing things from different points of view. If you have a compatible device, which should only be the handful of Samsung Galaxy smartphones listed here, you can check the app out now as the download is live in the Play Store currently.
