360-Degree Video News Reporting

English (OpenAlex)

Virtual reality (VR) and 360-degree video technologies have introduced a transformative paradigm in news production and consumption. This study explores the evolution of VR and 360-degree video within the context of journalism, defining 360-degree video as the fundamental entry point into "the real without reality." While these technologies offer immersive storytelling opportunities that enhance the audience’s sense of presence, they also bring forth significant ethical challenges, including potential mental manipulation and the distortion of news meaning through sensory enhancements. By evaluating the opportunities and limitations of these immersive tools, this research specifically analyzes The New York Times’ "The Daily 360" project as a primary case study to illustrate the practical application of 360-degree storytelling in contemporary media.