NextVR, one of the leading virtual reality broadcast companies, based out of Laguna Beach, California, is hoping to raise the bar when it comes to the way we watch sports.
Launched in 2009, NextVR is currently the only company capable of broadcasting live, high definition, 3D virtual reality content through their app and VR headset. By transmitting content in this format, the viewer experiences a game comparable to that of being court-side.
Since its inception, the virtual reality company has covered major sporting events such as the Master’s Tournament, the Kentucky Derby, the Home Run Derby, March Madness, and Daytona 500. In addition, the company recently signed a 5 year contract with Fox Sports. After a series of investments from various groups, the company is roughly valued at $800 million, according to Variety.
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Recently, NextVR announced their plans to live VR broadcast three International Champions Cup games, an annual series of friendly games played by some of the top soccer clubs from around the world. NextVR has live streamed two ICC matches thus far: Liverpool vs. Chelsea on July 27th and Real Madrid vs. Chelsea on July 30th. Unlike traditional coverage of a soccer game, NextVR captured the game with views from behind the goal, the sidelines and around the stadium.
“This is what we do. We put fans on the sidelines, next to the world’s most talented athletes and allow them to feel as if they are there,” said Brad Allen, Executive Chairman of NextVR. “We are thrilled to be working with Relevent Sports and ICC to bring this experience to the fan base of the world’s most popular sport.”
Don’t worry if you missed the last two matches, NextVR is broadcasting the August 3rd game of Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich from MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
For instructions on watching virtual reality sports through NextVR and future broadcasts, go to http://www.nextvr.com/gearvr-live/.