Facebook brings 360-degree video to its news feed

Facebook said its news feed for web and Android platform users will now support 360-degree videos.

A 360 video gives an immersive experience to users by allowing them to view a scene from any angle.

Such videos are created using a special set of cameras that manage to capture all 360 degrees of a scene at the same time.

"Support for the iOS platform will follow in the coming months", the company said on Wednesday.

Action camera maker GoPro has posted a video on motocross riding in the Idaho desert, while Vice Media has released a video of on-the-ground reporting in Afghanistan.

Basketball star LeBron James has also uploaded a 360 video, taking viewers behind the scenes during his workouts.

Walt Disney Co has uploaded a video of its upcoming "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" movie, which allows viewers to explore the fictional planet Jakku.

Facebook web users can drag a cursor and mobile users can tilt their devices in any direction to experience a 360-degree panorama view.

Anyone can upload 360 videos starting today, but Facebook is not currently allowing users to run ad campaigns with the videos.

(Reuters)