Frequently called 'spherical videos' or 'immersive videos', 360 videos are video recordings where a view in multiple directions is recorded simultaneously. They are typically shot using a specialist omnidirectional camera, or a collection of separate, connected cameras mounted as a spherical array. 360 videos can be live action (cinematography or videography that does not use animation), animated (captured from a 3D scene), or a mix of computer generated-graphics and live action. After being prepared for display via a technology such as a 3D game engine , 360 videos are then viewed by the user in a headset .
360 videos can be non-interactive or interactive. Non-interactive 360 videos are experiences where the viewer cannot influence the viewing experience outside of perhaps pausing the video or moving their head to take in different 'camera angles'. Interactive 360 videos are experiences where the viewer can interact with the UI or other interactable elements using gaze or a controller.