Virtual tours are quickly becoming essential tools for modern businesses across industries. These immersive, interactive 3D environments simulate visiting locations, spaces, and products in person. As virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies improve, the experiences are becoming even more practical and beneficial for brands.
Let's explore some of the most valuable real-world uses and applications of 360 virtual tour technology today.
One of the most common uses of virtual tours is for real estate previewing. Instead of relying solely on photos, agents create detailed VR tours of homes using platforms like Matterport. This allows buyers to digitally "walk through" houses worldwide to get immersive perspectives of layouts and finishes.
According to the National Association of Realtors, listings with virtual tours have 403% more views than those without. Tours drastically improve remote browsing to align buyers with ideal homes.
The travel industry is also embracing 360 virtual tours. Major sites like TripAdvisor, Expedia, and individual brands use VR to showcase rooms, amenities, restaurants, and other facilities at hotels and resorts. This helps guests research their options thoroughly before booking.
Event venues, museums, and other attraction-based businesses similarly benefit from virtual tours for previewing spaces. Customers can scout offerings in depth from anywhere prior to visits.
Another practical application of virtual tours is using VR to provide immersive product demonstrations and training. Rather than relying on static content, brands can provide interactive 3D demos showing how offerings work in realistic scenarios.
For example, equipment manufacturers can demonstrate machines in simulated environments relevant to customers. Software companies can guide users through step-by-step workflows. The hands-on practice enhances comprehension and confidence.
VR also enables brands to provide virtual simulations of complete user journeys. For example, hospitals can showcase facilities and walk patients through what to expect during their stays to reduce anxiety. Museums can provide VR experiences simulating exhibits for accessibility.
The applications across sectors are vast. Virtual tours boost understanding and alignment by simulating practical user experiences digitally.
One of the most practical uses of VR tours is for virtual staging during design processes. Using software like Matterport, designers can create digital wireframes of unfinished spaces and then overlay customizable furnishings, lighting, materials, and more to bring concepts to life.
Clients can explore the staged designs and provide feedback in real time. This facilitates extremely efficient collaboration and iteration before any physical commitments.
VR also supports remote collaboration when in-person meetings are not possible. Platforms like Spatial allow dispersed teams to join virtual workspaces as avatars. Participants can examine 3D models together, annotate designs, share screens, and more.
These simulated work environments keep collaboration aligned and efficient. The ability to digitally replicate physical interactivity provides immense practical value.
From previewing properties to simulating user experiences, virtual tour technology provides extremely practical business benefits. As VR/AR capabilities continue advancing, even more applications will emerge across sectors.
Any brand with physical products, locations, or services can start exploring VR integration to align visions with interactive practicality. Choose solutions suitable for your budget and goals to open new dimensions of customer experiences.
Get hands-on with virtual tours to attract, inform, and connect with audiences in memorable new ways.
Try it free. No credit card required. Instant set-up.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}