YouTube has officially launched support for 360-degree video, allowing users to control their point-of-view while the video streams. The video quality is a bit low right now, even at higher HD resolutions, but you can expect the quality to only improve. To see the 360-degree video you can click and hold on the image while moving around, or by using the controller in the top left corner of the player.
The 360-degree videos will also show up using the YouTube app for Android, simply by moving the phone or tablet around as if changing angles. YouTube developers say they are also working on compatibility with iPhone and iPad.
Cameras supporting the 36-Degree video (or will soon) include the Giroptic 360cam, IC Real Tech Allie, Kodak SP360, and Ricoh Theta. As of now YouTube supports H.264 progressive video at 24, 25 or 30 frames per second, and AAC-LC audio in Stereo or Stereo + 5.1. There’s also a script you’ll need to run on the video file to insert the correct metadata. In the future, YouTube says the process will be more automated. Here are the technical requirements for the 360-degree video.
Also, check out this playlist of 360-degree videos on YouTube.
