New System Enables 360-Degree Virtual Reality Picture ViewingNew System Enables 360-Degree Virtual Reality Picture Viewing

Eizoh Co. of Japan has announced a system for looking at pictures in 360 degrees using a head-mounted display system. To look to the right, left or up and down, the user simply turns his head. Special virtual-reality goggles monitor the movement of the users head, controlling which part of a large image is displayed.

The images viewed must be shot using a special dome-shaped mirror video camera sold by Eizoh, which comes as part of the kit. Also included is a computer with proprietary image processing software.

The company expects the system to be used in the real estate, tourism, educational and other industries.

It should go on sale next month for about $29,000.