The Samsung VR headsets will be available to travellers in Sydney and Melbourne’s international first-class lounges, as well as in the first class cabins on selected A380 services, from mid-February. Users will be able to view the sights in Qantas’ network destinations, new products and in-flight movies in a 360-degree format.
The initial trial will run for three months. The airline will then assess customer feedback on how VR might add to their overall experience on long-haul flights.
Production company Jaunt has worked closely with Qantas to produce the live-action content available on the Samsung headset. Tourism NT is the first travel company to collaborate on the project, with a special 3D experience of its Kakadu National Park.
Olivia Wirth, Qantas’ group executive of brand, marketing and corporate affairs, said: "Whether the user wants a virtual tour of our new Los Angeles First Lounge or experience an A380 landing from the tarmac, this technology gives us a completely new way to connect with our customers. From an inflight entertainment perspective, it’s an industry first.
"Qantas is committed to being at the forefront of innovation to give our passengers the very best and latest in-flight experiences, like accessing the virtual worlds of their favourite Hollywood blockbusters from the comfort of their seat 40,000 feet above the ground. It’s also a fantastic tool to feature our network’s destinations, inspiring travel and promoting tourism."
Arno Lenior, Samsung Electronics Australia chief marketing officer, added: "Samsung is immensely proud to be working with Qantas to deliver Samsung Gear VR entertainment technology through the airline’s first class services, both in the air and on the ground.
"We believe Samsung Gear VR, one of the latest innovations from Samsung, will open new worlds for Qantas customers who experience the technology for themselves."
Read more about the Samsung Gear VR in the .
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