It's no secret that Facebook is a big fan of virtual reality, so reports that
the firm is testing a 360-degree video app for smartphones don't come as a huge
surprise.
The application is said to be independent of the company's work with the Oculus
Rift headset, bringing more immersive video experiences to iOS and Android
users.
Users will be able to "move around inside the video and view it from different
angles" by turning and tilting their mobile device, reports the Wall Street
Journal.
Facebook pledged its commitment to bringing virtual reality to the fore last
year when it shelled out $2 billion (£1.2bn) on Oculus Rift maker Oculus VR.
The consumer version of the virtual reality headset is set to launch early next
year, but it is unclear when the smartphone app will arrive.
Not quite as technically impressive but sure to be useful, Facebook is also
testing temporary profile pictures that will make it easier to support causes
on the network.
