Creating a virtual reality app is no small feat, as this type of technology can be extremely complex both from a design perspective and from a technical perspective. Of the many types of software and mobile apps, virtual reality tends to be one technology that requires a slightly longer-than-average development time frame. The average cost to build a VR mobile app is also a bit higher compared to apps that utilize a different technology.
But, if you hire the right virtual reality app developer, you’ll find that the end result is simply stunning, with crisp graphics and a dynamic, engaging interface that quite literally transports you into a new digital world. So what should you expect when creating a VR mobile app? And how can you, as a client, expect to participate in the development process?
Expect to Collaborate on the Design of a Virtual Reality Environment
When developing a virtual reality app, the client needs to provide clear, detailed input on the design of the digital world. With many development projects, design and functionality are two separate topics of consideration. However, with VR app development, there’s an inextricable link between the appearance and functionalities of the digital environment. Take some time to consider questions such as:
- What will your VR world look like aesthetically?
- Will it look hyper-realistic or more fun and “cartoony”?
- What areas or structures will be included in the virtual world?
- What actions will the user be capable of performing in the virtual environment?
If you can imagine it, then a talented VR developer can create it. It’s essential that clients take the time to really consider the appearance and functionalities of their new virtual world. Then, they must clearly articulate that vision to the development team so that they can determine how to create the virtual reality app.
Keep in mind that user experience (UX) is an essential component of any mobile app or software program. For this reason, it’s critical that you consider your developer’s feedback on the topic of user experience. Your imagination is the only limit for designing a virtual reality interface, but UX will be a major determining factor when it comes to the end result. Remember, UX should never be compromised in favor of design elements. An app may look great, but if it lacks functionality, then your investment will be wasted.
Consider Hardware Integration for Your VR Development Project
You’ll need to consider precisely which types of hardware your new mobile app will accommodate. Virtual reality software—whether it’s a piece of desktop software, a mobile app, or hybrid—is best experienced using virtual reality goggles since this technology makes the user feel as though they’re immersed within the environment. Compatibility with all of the most popular VR headsets is critical.
But beyond this, you’ll need to consider how your user interacts with the virtual world. There exist a wide range of different VR hardware, ranging from joysticks and controllers to high-tech gloves and wearables. The best hardware will vary depending upon the exact nature of the app, combined with the way in which users will be interacting with the environment.
Each piece of VR hardware has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks, but your development team can help you determine which types of hardware will be best-suited to the mobile app that you’re creating. Variables include the type of movements required, along with the necessary degree of dexterity and precision. Hardware cost is also a big consideration for enterprise apps and applications that will be used in a business environment. Once the ideal hardware is identified, your development team can work to ensure full compatibility with your new VR app.
Additional Factors When Creating a Virtual Reality App
Developers can offer some very useful insights during the creation of a new VR app or software platform, so it’s critical that clients take the time to carefully consider their feedback and recommendations. The aesthetics of a virtual world are certainly open to interpretation and you should expect to repeatedly engage with the development team during the build. If you have a very precise vision in mind, it can be helpful to provide an example. This ensures that the finished environment has the desired look and feel. VR apps can be associated with a fairly lengthy development time frame, but the project can be expedited if the client provides detailed feedback at key points in the process.
Virtual reality mobile app development is just one of the many services we offer here at 7T. What’s more, our team leverages a proprietary framework called Stax to help expedite our development projects. The end result is a faster build, greater precision, and lower cost.
7T’s software and mobile app developers work with clients across Texas, including Dallas, Houston, Austin, and beyond. If you’re ready to leverage technology such as VR, AR, artificial intelligence, Predictive Analytics, or want to leverage the cloud, contact 7T.
Reach out to our team today!