Entertainment

How To Watch Youtube Videos On Gear VR

Published: October 23, 2023

how-to-watch-youtube-videos-on-gear-vr

Requirements

To watch YouTube videos on Gear VR, there are a few requirements you need to meet:

  • A Samsung Gear VR headset
  • A compatible Samsung smartphone (such as Galaxy S or Note series)
  • The YouTube VR app installed on your smartphone
  • A stable internet connection

The Samsung Gear VR is a virtual reality headset that allows you to experience immersive content. It works by inserting your compatible Samsung smartphone into the headset, which serves as the display and processing unit. The YouTube VR app is specifically designed for virtual reality and enables you to watch YouTube videos in a more immersive and engaging way.

Please note that not all Samsung smartphones are compatible with Gear VR, so it’s important to check the compatibility before proceeding. Additionally, a stable internet connection is necessary to stream the YouTube videos seamlessly.

Once you have met these requirements, you can proceed with the following steps to watch YouTube videos on Gear VR.

Step 1: Install the YouTube VR app

In order to watch YouTube videos on your Gear VR, you’ll need to install the YouTube VR app on your compatible Samsung smartphone. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Open the Oculus Store on your Gear VR.

  2. Using the Gear VR touchpad or controller, navigate to the search bar and type in “YouTube VR” to search for the app.

  3. Select the YouTube VR app from the search results.

  4. Click the “Install” button to begin downloading and installing the app onto your smartphone.

  5. Wait for the installation process to complete.

  6. Once the installation is finished, click on the “Open” button to launch the YouTube VR app.

It’s important to note that the YouTube VR app is specifically designed to offer a virtual reality viewing experience. It provides an immersive environment where you can explore and enjoy YouTube videos in a whole new way.

Make sure to grant any necessary permissions and follow any additional setup instructions that may appear when launching the YouTube VR app for the first time. This will ensure that you have the best possible experience while watching videos in virtual reality.

Now that you have successfully installed the YouTube VR app, you’re ready to move on to the next step: pairing your Gear VR with your smartphone.

Step 2: Pair your Gear VR with your phone

Before you can start using your Gear VR headset to watch YouTube videos, you’ll need to pair it with your compatible Samsung smartphone. Follow these steps to establish the connection:

  1. Open the front cover of your Gear VR headset.

  2. Insert your smartphone into the slot at the front of the headset, making sure the USB-C or micro USB connector is properly aligned.

  3. Gently close the front cover of the headset, ensuring it is securely fastened.

  4. Once your phone is connected to the Gear VR, a pop-up message will appear on your smartphone’s screen asking you to allow access to the Gear VR service. Tap “Allow” to grant the necessary permissions.

  5. Follow any on-screen prompts or instructions that may appear on your smartphone or Gear VR headset to complete the pairing process.

It’s important to ensure that your smartphone is fully inserted, and the connection is secure to avoid any interruptions while using the Gear VR headset. Make sure the phone’s display lines up with the lenses in the headset for optimal viewing experience.

Once the pairing is complete, your smartphone will now serve as the display and processing unit for your Gear VR. Ready for the next step? Let’s move on to connecting your Gear VR device.

Step 3: Connect your Gear VR

Now that your Gear VR headset is paired with your smartphone, it’s time to connect your Gear VR device to ensure proper functionality. Follow these steps to connect your Gear VR:

  1. Make sure your smartphone is still inserted into the Gear VR headset.

  2. Connect the USB-C or micro USB connector from the Gear VR headset to the corresponding port on your smartphone.

  3. Ensure the connection is secure and properly aligned.

  4. If necessary, adjust the straps on the Gear VR headset to fit comfortably on your head.

Connecting your Gear VR device to your smartphone is crucial for establishing a stable connection and ensuring smooth operation during your VR experience. It allows your smartphone’s screen to be displayed within the headset, enabling you to immerse yourself in the virtual world.

Once your Gear VR is connected, you are now ready to move on to the next step: opening the YouTube VR app and exploring its features.

Step 4: Open the YouTube VR app

With your Gear VR connected and ready, it’s time to open the YouTube VR app to start watching your favorite YouTube videos in virtual reality. Follow these steps to access the app:

  1. Tap the Oculus button on your Gear VR controller to bring up the Oculus home menu.

  2. Use the controller or touchpad to navigate through the menu.

  3. Select the YouTube VR app from the library of installed apps.

  4. Press the touchpad or controller trigger to launch the YouTube VR app.

Opening the YouTube VR app will transport you into a virtual reality environment specifically designed for immersive YouTube video playback. You can expect a visually captivating experience that allows you to explore a library of incredible videos in a whole new way.

As the app launches, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the navigation and interaction controls of Gear VR. This will help you navigate through the app smoothly and make the most of your virtual reality experience.

Now that you’ve successfully opened the YouTube VR app, it’s time to search for and find a video to watch. Let’s move on to the next step!

Step 5: Search and find a video

Now that you have the YouTube VR app open, it’s time to search for and find a video to watch. Follow these steps:

  1. Use the controller or touchpad to move the cursor to the search bar at the top of the YouTube VR app.

  2. Click the touchpad or press the controller trigger to activate the search function.

  3. Use the on-screen keyboard that appears to type in your search query.

  4. Once you’ve entered your search term, click the touchpad or press the controller trigger to initiate the search.

  5. Browse through the search results using the controller or touchpad.

  6. Click the touchpad or press the controller trigger to select a video to watch.

When searching for videos in the YouTube VR app, you can use keywords, titles, or even specific channel names to narrow down your search. The app’s intuitive search function will present you with relevant results based on your query.

Once you’ve found a video of interest, select it to start the playback. The video will begin playing on a virtual screen in a 360-degree environment, providing you with an immersive viewing experience.

Now that you know how to search for and find videos in the YouTube VR app, it’s time to dive into watching the video. Let’s move on to the next step!

Step 6: Watch the video

With the video selected, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the immersive experience of watching YouTube videos in virtual reality. Follow these steps to watch the video:

  1. Once you have selected a video, it will start playing on the virtual screen within the YouTube VR app.

  2. Look around to explore the 360-degree environment as the video plays.

  3. Enjoy the high-quality visuals and spatial audio that contribute to a more immersive viewing experience.

  4. As the video progresses, feel free to adjust your positioning to get the best view and angle.

  5. If you want to pause or resume the video, simply click the touchpad or press the controller trigger.

  6. To exit the video playback, you can either press the back button on your Gear VR controller or navigate to the menu options within the YouTube VR app.

Watching YouTube videos in virtual reality allows you to feel like you’re truly part of the content, whether it’s a thrilling adventure, a live concert, or a breathtaking natural landscape. The immersive nature of virtual reality enhances the overall viewing experience and takes entertainment to a whole new level.

Enjoy exploring different videos and genres within the YouTube VR app, and make the most out of the virtual reality platform to watch your favorite content like never before.

Now that you know how to watch videos in the YouTube VR app, let’s move on to the next step and learn how to adjust the video settings for an optimal viewing experience.

Step 7: Adjust the video settings

To enhance your viewing experience and tailor it to your preferences, you have the option to adjust various video settings within the YouTube VR app. Follow these steps to customize the video settings:

  1. While watching a video, access the menu options within the YouTube VR app by pressing the back button on your Gear VR controller.

  2. Use the controller or touchpad to navigate through the menu options and select “Settings.”

  3. Within the settings menu, you can adjust options like video quality, volume, and subtitles.

  4. To modify the video quality, select the “Video Quality” option and choose between different resolution options, such as 720p or 1080p, based on your bandwidth and preference.

  5. To adjust the audio volume, select the “Volume” option and use the controller or touchpad to increase or decrease the volume level.

  6. If the video supports subtitles and you prefer to have them displayed, select the “Subtitles” option and choose your desired language and style.

By adjusting the video settings, you can optimize the playback experience to match your requirements. If you have limited internet bandwidth, selecting a lower video quality can ensure smooth streaming. Similarly, adjusting the volume and enabling subtitles can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the content.

Feel free to experiment with different settings to find the combination that suits you best and enhances your virtual reality viewing experience. Have fun exploring the options!

Now that you’ve learned how to adjust the video settings, let’s move on to the next step and discover how to navigate and interact using the Gear VR controller.

Step 8: Use the controller for navigation and interaction

As you immerse yourself in the virtual reality world of YouTube VR, the Gear VR controller becomes your primary tool for navigation and interaction. Familiarize yourself with these controller functions to make the most out of your experience:

  • Touchpad: The touchpad on the Gear VR controller allows you to navigate through menus and interact with the virtual environment. You can swipe or click on the touchpad to make selections, scroll through options, or bring up the virtual keyboard for input.

  • Trigger: The trigger button on the controller is used for selecting and interacting with objects and options within the YouTube VR app. Pressing the trigger acts as a confirm button, allowing you to make selections and activate various features.

  • Home button: The home button on the Gear VR controller takes you back to the Oculus home menu. You can use this button to exit the YouTube VR app or switch between different apps and experiences on your Gear VR.

  • Back button: The back button on the controller is used to navigate backward within menus and to return to the previous screen or step. It can also be used to exit video playback and return to the YouTube VR app’s main interface.

Mastering these controller functions allows you to seamlessly navigate through the YouTube VR app, search for videos, browse through menus, and interact with the virtual environment. The controller acts as an extension of your hand, providing you with precise control and freedom to explore and enjoy the virtual world of YouTube.

Practice using the controller to become more comfortable with its functions, and soon you’ll be effortlessly navigating and interacting within the YouTube VR app.

Now that you’re familiar with the controller, let’s move on to the next step and learn how to engage with YouTube videos by liking, sharing, and subscribing.

Step 9: Like, share, and subscribe to videos

While watching YouTube videos in virtual reality with the YouTube VR app, you have the ability to engage with the content by liking, sharing, and subscribing. Follow these steps to interact with the videos:

  1. During video playback, use the controller to bring up the options menu by pressing the back button.

  2. Navigate to the icons for liking, sharing, or subscribing, which are usually located near the video player.

  3. Click the touchpad or press the controller trigger to select the desired option.

  4. If you want to like the video, simply select the thumbs-up icon. This will show your appreciation for the content.

  5. To share the video, select the share icon and choose the desired platform or method to share the video with others. This can be done through social media, messaging apps, or even email.

  6. If you enjoy the content creator and want to support them, select the subscribe icon to become a subscriber of their channel. This will allow you to receive notifications about their new videos and updates.

Interacting with videos by liking, sharing, and subscribing is not only a way to engage with the content, but it also supports the creators and helps them gain visibility and recognition. By showing your appreciation and sharing interesting videos, you contribute to the vibrant YouTube community.

Remember to take breaks from the virtual reality world to share your favorite videos and engage with the YouTube community on other platforms as well.

Now that you know how to interact with YouTube videos in the YouTube VR app, let’s move on to the final step, which is exiting the app.

Step 10: Exit the YouTube VR app

After you’ve finished watching videos or if you want to take a break from the YouTube VR app, it’s important to know how to properly exit the app. Follow these steps to exit the YouTube VR app on your Gear VR:

  1. While in the YouTube VR app, press the back button on your Gear VR controller. This will bring up the options menu.

  2. Navigate to the “Exit” or “Close” option using the controller or touchpad.

  3. Click the touchpad or press the controller trigger to select the “Exit” option.

  4. You will be taken back to the Oculus home menu, indicating that you have successfully exited the YouTube VR app.

It’s important to properly exit the YouTube VR app to ensure that your Gear VR resources are efficiently utilized and to avoid any unnecessary battery drain on your smartphone. Exiting the app also allows you to switch to other VR experiences or applications available on your Gear VR.

Keep in mind that even after exiting the app, your Gear VR headset will remain connected to your smartphone. If you want to fully disconnect your Gear VR, remember to unplug the USB-C or micro USB connector from your smartphone and remove it from the headset.

Now that you know how to exit the YouTube VR app, you can explore more videos or switch to other virtual reality experiences using your Gear VR.

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to watch YouTube videos on your Gear VR using the YouTube VR app. Enjoy your virtual reality journey and immerse yourself in the captivating world of YouTube videos.

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Written by Toinette Perreault

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