Last month we discussed what the possibilities are of kiosk mode for events & presentations. VR is not only a toy like a gaming console, it’s a fully featured marketing tool that will engross both consumers as professionals in any field. By using the tools that virtual reality provides it’s possible to create immersive presentations in every location and for any number of participants. These are the ten best use cases of virtual reality during fairs & tradeshows.
1. Bring large objects to small venues
How do you show a full-size navy vessel at an exhibition? You can’t bring an enormous ship inside a cramped event hall. By creating a virtual version the attendees were able to explore the USS Carl Vinson in great detail. No venue is too small for a VR presentation. If there’s no room for free roaming movement, VR controllers can be used for an immersive tour through a large object. It’s also easier to create ‘restricted areas’ in a virtual object.
2. Let the audience decide the presentation
Not every visitor has the exact same interests. Using kiosk mode for VR apps the user can select from a gallery of 360 videos without additional assistance. By using a ‘gaze based’ interaction system there’s no requirement for a VR controller. Kiosk mode for VR apps provides a lower threshold for users to experience VR while creating a personalized experience.
3. Create interactive installations
Have you ever had the opportunity to cross a narrow plank across two skyscrapers? This is of course very dangerous, in virtual reality it’s entirely safe yet very realistic. Actually, this type of interactive VR demo has been around since the start of virtual reality headsets, and hasn’t lost any of its impact.
4. Visualize a worthwhile cause
So, you have a charity or a different cause that you want to promote. Several charities have opted for a VR video in order to place people right in the middle of war-torn areas, or in hospitals showing the actual impact of diseases. It’s also an option to take a more subtle approach, and show how a donation can help a cause. By showing the power of people across the nation, or even the world joining forces it becomes clear that even a small donation makes a difference.
5. Demonstrate products with prototypes
How do you show a brand new automobile that has not left the production line yet? Instead of showing a glossy brochure or a model, just let the interested parties look at a highly detailed model. Apart from walking around the car (or other product), the user can take a look inside the car or examine the engine. If the seats are available you can even place the prospective buyer in a virtual car for a truly immersive experience.
6. Create virtual tours with hotspots
Another interesting application of kiosk mode for VR apps is a more interactive version of the standard 360 video. This time the presentation features ‘hotspots’, icons that allow the user to follow a custom path. This is especially interesting for realtors, potential customers can take a virtual walk in a building on their own pace. This allows for the use of one standard VR app with custom tours that cater to the exact preferences of the individual users.
7. Preview of holiday destinations
With numerous apps to book flights, rooms and excursions, the tourism industry has to innovate to remain relevant. By showing beautiful 360 videos that can be selected using kiosk mode for VR apps the attendees at a show can choose their favorite holiday destination. If you really want to make the presentation special consider climate controlled booths. Show exotic videos in a warm room, or let the viewer feel the cold while watching the snowy mountains in a ski resort.
8. Prepare for an adventure
Besides selling holiday arrangements, the traveler will also need the appropriate apparel. Show, don’t tell and demonstrate what an explorer would require to scale high mountains. This also works for more relaxing holiday destinations by showing the latest beach wear to travellers. Let the viewer decide by installing a kiosk mode for VR apps.
9. Create heatmaps for analysis
This is a more advanced feature that is aimed at the marketing professionals. Some VR headsets allow accurate tracking of the head movements. By collecting viewing data heatmaps can be created, these images show the most viewed elements of a 360 video. By analyzing the viewer behavior, marketing efforts can be improved for maximum results.
10. Offer visitors a roller coaster ride
There are several companies that have paired VR headsets with installations that can move according to the movements in the video. Using a sophisticated pneumatic system it’s possible to create realistic roller coaster rides at any location. Each video can be synced with movements so custom roller coaster rides can be designed for each unique application.