A Guide on How to Build a VR App

Imagine your customers entering a virtual world where they interact with your products or services as if they were there, regardless of their physical location. Envision your employees mastering new skills in a virtual space, free from real-world risks.

 

Consider how VR can transform hospitality, allowing guests to tour hotels and resorts virtually before arrival. Healthcare? VR can provide therapeutic experiences, reducing stress and anxiety for patients. 

 

VR goes beyond entertainment; it revolutionizes how we connect, learn, and do business.

 

At Onix, we believe that VR technology can deepen customer engagement, expand markets, and increase profitability of your product.

 

So, if you’re considering VR for your business, this article is about:

 

• Key VR app components;
• VR app development process;
• Essential tech requirements;

 

We created this article based on two of our case studies to showcase our VR app development services in action. These are InnerVR and the VR training application for warehouse workers.

 

So, let’s start. 

InnerVR meditation game developed by the Onix team.

The Key Components of VR Application

Developing a virtual reality app starts by understanding its structure. So, let’s first consider the breakdown of the main components of the VR app.

 

Display and resolution

Imagine stepping into a VR world where every detail is crystal clear, like looking through a window. In VR, the display acts as this window into the digital world, while resolution determines the clarity of what we see. 

 

So, to start any VR project, we first needed to pick the right headset. For example, in our recent project InnerVR, we aimed for a meditation app with stunning visuals for relaxation. Therefore, we opted for the Oculus Quest 2. It's known for its sharp graphics and immersive experience, making it perfect for our client's needs.

Screenshot from InnerVR virtual environment made by our team

 

Tracking and sensors

Next, tracking technology monitors users' movements in the virtual environment, ensuring that digital content aligns with real-world actions. 

 

In InnerVR, the Oculus Quest 2 uses advanced sensors. We’ve chosen these sensors to track movements accurately, allowing users to interact naturally with their surroundings, whether stretching to touch an object or reaching out to light a lantern.

InnerVR virtual spaces made by Onix

 

Audio and haptics

Audio and haptics improve immersion in VR by providing auditory and tactile sensations. 

 

For instance, InnerVR calming music accompanies meditation sessions, while haptic feedback from the Oculus Quest 2 adds a tactile dimension. This makes the virtual experience feel more real and engaging.

One more virtual environment of the InnerVR app created by Onix team

 

Software platform and tools

The software platform forms the foundation of VR applications, determining compatibility and functionality. 

 

For InnerVR, we chose the Oculus platform for its reliability and compatibility with devices like the Oculus Quest 2. Development tools like Unity allowed us to create a high-performing and smooth journey for users.

 

Content creation and optimization

This involves designing digital elements for VR environments, while optimization guarantees smooth performance. 

 

In InnerVR, our team designed serene landscapes and meditation sessions. We’ve optimized every element to provide users with an enjoyable experience that fosters relaxation and mindfulness.

Screenshot from InnerVR virtual environment made by our team

 

User interface and interaction

The UI enables users to interact with VR applications, while interaction design defines how users engage with digital content. 

 

For InnerVR, we created intuitive menus and buttons to navigate users easily. This allowed them to focus on the journey of mindfulness and relaxation without distractions.

 

Together, they form the foundation of VR experience, offering users a dynamic and engaging environment to explore. 

 

Now, let's dive into the process of how these elements come together in the creation of a VR app. We'll walk through the entire process step by step, showing you how innovation and creativity merge to bring virtual experiences to life. 

 

Main Steps of VR App Development

 

Stage 1: Discovery Phase

 

 

Imagine you've envisioned a VR app to whisk users away from the daily grind. You've conceptualized the idea and have a clear vision of its inner workings. But how do you turn this vision into reality? How do you mitigate risks and ensure the idea will work? 

 

That’s where you need a discovery phase. It helps you set clear goals, understand user needs, mitigate risks, optimize resources, and make informed decisions.

 

Let's delve into the example of how we conduct the discovery phase specifically for developing VR applications.

 

• Goals: We define clear objectives for the VR project, ensuring alignment with business goals and target audience.

 

• Audience: We investigate the intended VR users, including their preferences, behaviors, and pain points within the virtual environment.

 

• Virtual environment exploration: Together, we explore various virtual environments to determine the most suitable backdrop for the VR experience.

 

• VR features: We brainstorm features and interactions tailored to the chosen VR platform.

 

• Risk mitigation: We develop robust strategies to address risks, ensuring a smoother development process and minimizing disruptions down the line.

 

Stage 2: Building MVP

Once the discovery phase is completed and you have a clear roadmap of your project, you're ready to proceed with building an MVP. It marks the first step in bringing your idea to life, providing a basic version of the app with essential features for an initial release. 

 

This allows you to test the product with early users and gather feedback to guide further development. We've put together a video detailing the MVP creation process based on our expertise, followed by a live example demonstration.

 

Onix explains MVP concept in a nutshell 

 

Recently, we’ve developed a virtual training application for warehouse workers, focusing on box storage techniques. This simulation teaches and records the use of loaders, ladders, and proper shelf placement relative to box weight. 

 

Potential pitfalls may include ineffective training methods that may not adequately simulate real-world scenarios and a lack of user engagement due to uninspiring content.

 

By creating a basic version of the app as an MVP, our client was able to identify and address these potential pitfalls early in the development process, ensuring a more informed and successful journey towards creating an effective training solution.

 

Read also how to prioritize features for your MVP.

 

MVP of the VR app for warehouse workers developed by Onix

 

Stage 3: Selecting 3D Engine

When you're getting ready to build your MVP, it's important to pick a 3D engine first. Choosing the right engine sets the stage for smooth development and helps make sure your product can grow effectively over time.

 

Here are the main requirements we stick to when choosing engines for our clients:

 

• rendering capabilities;
• cross-platform compatibility;
• development tools;
• specific project requirements.

 

There are lots of engines to choose from. But at Onix, we incorporate Unity in most cases for its versatility and flexibility.

 

Its comprehensive suite of tools and features caters to a diverse range of project requirements, accommodating everything from 3D simulations to polished 2D mobile games. Its robust development environment and extensive asset store make it ideal for rapid prototyping and iteration. 

 

In a recent VR training application for warehouse workers, we chose Unity for its versatility and rapid development capabilities. This allowed us to create a realistic virtual environment where workers could practice proper box storage techniques safely. 

VR training app build on Unity by Onix team

 

Stage 4: Selecting VR hardware

After we've chosen the engine, the next step is considering hardware. Selecting the appropriate hardware ensures compatibility with the chosen engine and optimizes overall performance. Hardware considerations can encompass a variety of components, including the choice of: 

 

• computer systems
• graphics cards
• input devices such as controllers or VR headsets.

 

For clients with specific hardware preferences, we ensure compatibility with their chosen devices and optimize the experience accordingly.

 

For example, if a client prefers standalone headsets like the Meta Quest, we focus on optimizing performance and graphical fidelity within the constraints of mobile hardware. If tethered headsets like the Valve Index are preferred, we leverage their tracking accuracy and graphical capabilities to deliver a premium VR experience.

Onix has developed a VR simulation to incorporate additional statistics for a NASCAR event.

 

Stage 5: Platform Selection

After we've selected the engine and considered hardware options, the next natural step is choosing the platform. This decision involves determining the target devices or operating systems for deploying the product.

 

With our expertise across platforms like Meta Quest 2, HTC Vive Pro 2, Valve Index VR Kit, Sony PlayStation VR2, and PICO 4, we evaluate various factors to ensure the perfect fit.

 

For example, Meta Quest 2 offers standalone VR experiences with easy accessibility, making it a popular choice for apps focused on mobility and convenience. 

 

On the other hand, HTC Vive Pro 2 and Valve Index VR Kit stand out for their superior graphics.

 

Sony PlayStation VR2 perfectly integrates with the PlayStation ecosystem, making it an excellent choice for gaming-centric applications targeting console users. 

 

Meanwhile, PICO 4 strikes a balance between performance and affordability, catering to projects with budget constraints without compromising on quality. We’ve briefly described the main platforms and their peculiarities. To learn more about platforms and their differences, read our article about VR platforms.

 

Moreover, considerations such as the target audience demographics, distribution channels, and monetization strategies play a significant role in platform selection. 

 

For example, if the target audience primarily consists of mobile users, developing a VR application for smartphone-based VR platforms like Google Cardboard or Samsung Gear VR is more appropriate.

 

Stage 6: UX And UI Design

Once all the technical requirements are decided, the next crucial step is the UI/UX design. Crafting an intuitive and visually appealing user interface and experience is essential for engaging users and maximizing the usability of your product.

 

At Onix, our approach to VR apps design integrates several key principles:

 

• User-Centered Design: We place users at the forefront of our design process, ensuring that their needs, preferences, and behaviors guide every decision we make.

 

• Intuitive Navigation: We design VR environments with intuitive navigation systems that are easy to understand and use, minimizing user frustration and maximizing engagement.

 

• Consistency: We maintain consistency in design elements such as layout, color scheme, and typography throughout the VR experience.

 

• Accessibility: We prioritize accessibility by considering factors such as font size, contrast, and audio cues to accommodate users with diverse needs and abilities.

 

• Feedback and Response: We incorporate interactive elements and feedback mechanisms to provide users with clear cues and responses.

 

For example, in our InnerVR project, we've implemented virtual worlds designed to cater to diverse user preferences. We've made nine distinct environments, each offering unique sounds, graphics, and colors.

 

Consider our tropical beach experience: vibrant colors, lively animals, and the calming sounds of waves create a serene yet engaging atmosphere. Users can partake in activities like fishing or try meditation exercises designed to promote relaxation.

 

Similarly, our village setting exudes tranquility with Aurora Borealis effects, a crackling fire, and soothing sounds—perfect for unwinding and promoting sleep. Whether exploring lush gardens or cozy traditional house interiors, InnerVR design fosters introspection and inner peace.

 

Our team creates VR environments that are not only visually captivating but also intuitive and comfortable for users to engage with.

 

Here is a video of different design environments in InnerVR app by Onix

 

Stage 7: Development and Quality Assurance

Using the chosen engine and hardware compatibility, the development process aims to translate design concepts into functional software while ensuring alignment with project goals and user expectations. That’s where the development stage starts. 

 

Here is how this stage looks like at Onix:

 

• Development: We employ industry-standard tools such as Unity for development. We use modular development, where we break down complex features into manageable components, facilitating efficient debugging and maintenance.

 

• Version Control and Automation: With Git as our version control system, we track changes throughout the development process, ensuring transparency and accountability. Moreover, our CI/CD pipelines automate the build and testing phases, enabling rapid iteration and early detection of potential issues.

 

• Testing: Our testing includes unit testing to validate individual components, integration testing to ensure seamless interaction between modules, and user acceptance testing (UAT) to incorporate valuable feedback. This iterative approach guarantees the robustness and reliability of your VR experience.

 

• Performance and Compatibility Testing: To deliver a seamless experience across different devices and platforms, we conduct performance testing to optimize resource utilization and ensure smooth operation. Additionally, compatibility testing is performed to verify functionality across various hardware configurations and software environments.

 

• Documentation: We document all decisions, implementation details, and test cases. This documentation serves as a valuable resource for future reference and facilitates seamless maintenance and updates.

 

Read also How to Hire Developers for VR and AR Projects

Here Onix has crafted an app, enabling users to customize their apartments in a virtual environment.

 

Stage 8: Release And Support

After development and testing, we prepare the VR app for release. We do final checks to ensure everything works as intended and fix any last-minute issues.

 

Then, we submit the app to stores like Oculus Store, SteamVR, or Google Play Store following platform guidelines. After release, we provide ongoing support and maintenance to keep the app running smoothly, fixing bugs and optimizing performance.

 

 

Benefits of VR App Development for Businesses

 

"VR isn't just for entertainment; it's a strategic business tool. It boosts engagement, builds loyalty, and creates new revenue streams. With VR, businesses stand out in crowded markets, offering unique value and driving growth."

- Serhii Vitukhin, Head of Unity Department at Onix

 

Now that you're familiar with all the steps of development and what to expect, let's delve into the benefits that VR can offer your business.

 

By embracing VR technology, your business stands to gain a competitive edge through enhanced training programs, more efficient design processes, improved collaboration capabilities, and innovative customer experiences.

 

Let’s consider in detail how VR benefits various industries.

1. Enhanced customer engagement

 

• Travel industry: 

VR in travel enables potential customers to virtually explore destinations, accommodations, and attractions before booking trips, leading to more informed decisions and increased bookings. 

 

In one of our articles, we talked about more business opportunities VR brings in travel products.

 

• Fitness: 

Immersive workout experiences, personalized training sessions, and gamified meditation apps attract and retain customers, providing a competitive edge for fitness businesses. 

 

Recently, we’ve created the whole guide on VR meditation apps where you can read more about this technology and its benefits.

 

• Movie: 

VR apps offer innovative storytelling experiences, immersing viewers in cinematic worlds and revolutionizing audience engagement. 

 

We’ve applied this technology in one of our projects - Cinematic VR. We developed a VR app tasked with delivering an immersive movie experience while showcasing original video content in an exclusive VR format.

One of our examples of meditation VR apps - InnerVR

 

2. Improved training and safety

 

• Construction: 

VR simulations allow employees to practice complex tasks in a risk-free environment, leading to improved skills, efficiency, and safety standards.  

 

For example, we developed a VR simulation app for the skyscraper construction company. The integration of VR technology into the training process helped it to increase staff safety and improve work performance.

 

• Marine industry: 

VR simulators facilitate realistic training scenarios for marine personnel, enhancing skills and safety measures.

VR simulation for the skyscraper construction site made by Onix team

 

3. Cost reduction and efficiency

Virtual meetings: VR enables businesses to conduct virtual meetings and collaborative workspaces, connecting teams and clients remotely while reducing travel costs and enhancing productivity. 

 

One of the compelling examples made by Onix is AR-enhanced presentations and meetings. We integrated AR technology so that presenters gained the ability to utilize AR-enabled presentation tools. These tools empower them to superimpose visual aids, charts, and graphs seamlessly into the physical environment. 

 

 

4. Differentiation and competitive advantage

 

• Travel: Offering immersive experiences through VR sets businesses apart from competitors, providing a unique selling point and enhancing customer satisfaction. 

 

• Fitness: Integrating VR into fitness experiences distinguishes businesses and attracts tech-savvy customers seeking innovative workout solutions.

 

• Realistic Prototyping: VR enables businesses to create and test product prototypes in a virtual environment, reducing the time and cost associated with physical prototyping.

 

• Data Visualization: VR can represent complex data sets in interactive and visually engaging ways, helping businesses gain insights and make data-driven decisions.

 

By leveraging VR technology, businesses can innovate operations, attract customers, and gain a competitive edge in various industries.

 

Our Experience in VR App Development 

Now, let's explore how VR materializes in real-world scenarios. Our AR and VR solutions aim to create memorable and smooth experiences, whether it's captivating destination previews, interactive planning tools, or lifelike virtual tours.

 

Our portfolio showcases diverse applications of AR and VR technology. Here are just some of them.

 

HoloKit X: 

For this project, we created an affordable open-source mixed-reality experience featuring the HeadKit cardboard headset and TrackKit software. 

 

We developed a robust content synchronization system for multiple users and enabled high-quality viewing of virtual objects in the real world using a smartphone camera. Our focus was on ensuring super-sharp optics quality and a wide 76-degree diagonal field of view.

HoloKit X mixed reality experience designed by Onix 

 

VR Stereoscope Photo Viewer:

Onix team transformed 19th-century stereoscope images into the VR experience. 

 

We preserved their authentic style and depth effects across multiple platforms, allowing users to explore history and immerse themselves in the ambiance of the 19th century. Our retouching and specialized VR rendering techniques bring these images to life, offering users a unique and captivating journey into the past.

 

VR Stereoscope Photo Viewer app made by Unity Department at Onix

 

One Touch VR:

For this project, we created a custom-themed app for distributing and storing multiple movies. Users get invited to exclusive VR premieres of films like The Humanity Bureau VR with Nicolas Cage and The Recall VR Abduction with Wesley Snipes and RJ Mitte. 

 

Once inside the app, users are transported to a virtual movie lounge where they can enjoy a wide range of content, including cinematic VR experiences, bonus material, behind-the-scenes footage, movie trailers, standard 2D films, Barco Escape 3-screen formats, and more.

One Touch VR app created by Onix team

 

Summing up

The VR market is ripe for innovation, and companies pioneering VR apps have the potential to lead the way.

 

At Onix, we're ready to help you seize this opportunity and create VR experiences that engage customers, build loyalty, and drive revenue. Get in touch with our VR experts for a free consultation and let's bring your vision to life.

 

FAQ

 

Q1: What benefits can VR app development bring to businesses?

A1: VR app development offers businesses the opportunity to create immersive experiences that drive customer engagement, enhance brand loyalty, and increase revenue through unique and memorable interactions.

 

Q2: How can VR apps differentiate businesses in competitive markets?

A2: VR apps provide businesses with a unique value proposition, allowing them to stand out in competitive markets by offering innovative and engaging experiences that resonate with their audience on a deeper level.

 

Q3: What role does Onix play in VR app development?

A3: Onix serves as a trusted tech partner, providing expertise and innovative solutions to guide businesses through the VR app development process, ensuring they harness the full potential of virtual reality to achieve their goals.

 

Q4: Why is investing in VR app development essential for businesses' future success?

A4: Investing in VR app development is essential for businesses to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, as it enables them to leverage immersive experiences to drive customer engagement, foster brand loyalty, and unlock new revenue streams, ultimately propelling them towards sustained growth and success.