How To Create A VR App
Virtual Reality (VR) is ceasing to be something fantastic and increasingly penetrates our lives. As a result, software solutions that use VR are of growing interest, so companies that have implemented them receive huge profits. This article explains the basic details about and costs of designing a VR app, so that you can learn more about them and take advantage of their popularity.
Trends In The Virtual Reality Market
Virtual Reality gives people access to non-existent worlds, making ordinary things like trying clothes on or playing computer games more interesting and exciting. Many mobile devices support VR, but unique technological solutions have been created for true connoisseurs, such as Google Cardboard Glasses or Gear VR from Samsung. Studies show that these devices are rapidly gaining popularity. Thus, Augmented Reality (AR) and VR headset sales of 4.46 million in 2019 will reach 18.81 million by 2023. This trend suggests that interest in Virtual Reality is increasing, and therefore the competition in the field of VR applications is getting a boost. However, start-ups and medium and large businesses can still succeed in this niche. So let’s figure out how you can create a VR application that will stand out from the competition.
Steps To Creating A VR App
Building a VR app is different from creating standard software. Therefore, to successfully solve this problem, the help of a professional software provider with experience in developing AR and VR solutions is needed. Thus, it is better to start by resolving this issue. You may form an in-house team or look for a qualified outsourcing company on platforms like the well-known Clutch. The second option may be preferable since an offshore vendor can provide an already proven team of highly qualified specialists. You do not have to waste your time searching for and selecting developers. Beyond this, the construction of a VR application will occur in several stages:
Stage 1. Selecting The VR Hardware
There are several widespread VR devices available today:
- Google Cardboard
These VR glasses are compatible with Android and iPhone mobile devices. They are pretty simple to implement and have a low price, but they are inferior in quality to more expensive models. - Daydream VR by Google
Provides high-quality VR for a reasonable price. It is compatible with current Android devices only. - Samsung Gear VR
Smart VR glasses that recognize head tilt and position dramatically improve the impression left by their usage. They perform with Samsung Galaxy Note models starting from the fourth generation. - Oculus Rift
A stylish headset that is compatible with a PC, and delivers realistic Virtual Reality for PC applications. - HTC Vive
A product of HTC and Valve collaboration, these glasses are complemented by hand controllers, allowing you to engage yourself in VR fully.
A technical expert helps you to determine the proper option, based on your planned budget and the application characteristics.
Stage 2. Selecting A 3D Engine
There are two basic options: Unity and Unreal. The choice will rely on the software’s complexity. So, more straightforward applications can be developed with Unity, since its functionality is enough. On the other hand, if a more complex game is the expected outcome, for sample, a shooter, Unreal is better suited.
Stage 3. UX And UI Design
Design is of great importance for such applications. So, all the objects must be correctly positioned and move smoothly. Also, it must be convenient for the user to configure all the options at their discretion. For example, choose to display from the first person, or the third. Finally, it is imperative that the application recognizes movements and allows control with their help so that the Virtual Reality experience is complete.
Stage 4. Development And Quality Assurance
Each stage of development for such an application must be accompanied by testing. So, quality assurance specialists will conduct various manual and automatic tests to ensure that the application works smoothly, the graphics do not freeze, and that there are no bugs.
Stage 5. Release And Support
When your VR app is finally ready, developers launch it in the marketplaces. Software products of this complexity require further technical support provided by your vendor. Also, you will be able to request updates and enhancements if necessary.
This is how a VR application is created. Now let’s see how you can profit from it.
How To Benefit From A VR App
Let’s consider the most commonly used monetization models for VR apps:
- Freemium
This model assumes the application is free; however, some additional features, such as disabling ads, can be purchased. - In-app purchases
The application is free, but users can purchase special items or in-game currency for real money. - Premium app
By choosing this approach, you provide the application on a paid basis. However, annoying ads will be absent, and various user bonuses are also available. - Advertising and product placement
A great way to make money is by leaving the application free for users. Many companies use ads in third-party apps to promote themselves, and VR allows you to place them most effectively.
There are many ways to monetize VR apps, and you can implement any model you consider appropriate. If you struggle with a choice, your technical expert will advise you about which option will be the most beneficial.
VR App Development Cost
Virtual Reality apps are numerous and vary widely in their core functionality and purpose. Of course, the price for a mobile game, software for real estate, or eLearning application development will be completely different. However, we can give you a general understanding of VR app pricing.
The key factor influencing the cost of developing a VR application will be its complexity. The more features it has and the more advanced they are, the more time will be spent on development. In turn, the creation time directly affects the final cost. Based on market research and our many years of experience, we can provide you with an approximate estimate:
- The simplest VR app—$5,000–8,000
- Online store—$15,000–25,000
- 3D game—$50,000—150,000
- MMORPG game—from $100,000 upwards.
Thus, the cost of developing a Virtual Reality application can range from $5,000 to $100,000 or more. To get a detailed estimate, you should contact a professional software provider, who will take into account all your wishes and be able to give you an accurate price.
Wrapping Up
Virtual Reality applications are gaining more and more success these days. Their growing interest suggests that their popularity will only increase in the future. Contact a software vendor to help you master Virtual Reality, realize your idea, and create a VR app that will conquer the market and leave your competitors far behind.
