Why does Apple persist in not selling virtual reality headsets? Mystery. But let iPhone fans be reassured, there are many devices compatible with the apple brand smartphone on the net. Discover in this article how to use a VR headset with an iPhone. As a bonus, we offer a selection of 360-degree videos as well as some good games to enjoy a host of visual experiences..
Discover virtual reality with an iPhone
The virtual reality headset seems straight out of a twentieth century science fiction film. But its effectiveness is very real. This technology offers a unique immersive experience. 360-degree videos, virtual tours (museum, exhibitions, monuments, emblematic places), immersive games, you can now have fun experiences or discover the world without leaving your living room.
Especially since the latest models take advantage of a gyroscopic remote control allowing to interact very easily with characters or virtual objects. We can thus move in virtual reality or turn on ourselves without making torticollis..
Is my iPhone compatible with a VR headset
Technically all smartphones with a gyroscope, an accelerometer and a screen with a high pixel density are likely to work with a VR headset. These technical criteria automatically excluded from models like the iPhone 3S, the 4, the 4S and even the iPhone 5.
Only models 5S, 6, 6S, 7, 8 and higher can run virtual reality applications in good conditions. Immersive games and 360 ° degreed video require high performance graphics chips and very responsive screens. The technical performance of the smartphone has a direct impact on the fluidity of the display..
Choosing a good virtual reality headset
The virtual reality sector has become increasingly democratized in recent years. These smartphone accessories offer more accessible solutions than stand-alone 3D headsets for PCs. Today we can afford a good VR headset for less than 50 euros.
Aesthetically, the majority of virtual reality headsets all look the same. These devices have optical lenses, a headband system to tighten it on the head and a drawer in which you will slide your smartphone. This is the screen that will act as a display.
The Google Cardboard helmet
It is the most basic and also the cheapest helmet available on the market. It costs around 20 euros. There are even clones for 5 euros on Amazon. This economical product offers the advantage of opening the world of virtual reality to the general public.
The Google Cardboard is compatible with most iPhones. The kit consists of a cardboard box to assemble yourself, velcro strips, two lenses and an elastic band. Once assembled, you can view virtual reality images directly from your iPhone.
Please note that the Google Cardboard remains fragile. Some precautions must therefore be taken when using it. Finally, since there are no straps, its use can quickly become tiresome.
Homido V2
Developed by the Lille startup Eccodis, the Homido V2 helmet offers one of the best value for money on the market, notably thanks to its very good comfort of use and its adjustable lens spacing system. It accepts all iPhones 5S and the following models.
The Homido V2 has an action button to navigate and interact in the applications without having to remove the smartphone from its housing. 
It also includes a device for adjusting the lenses so that they adapt to the sight of people wearing glasses or lenses (nearsighted and farsighted).
The Homido is sold with a protective case to take it everywhere, two additional protective foams, a microfiber wipe as well as a removable three-point support strap. This VR headset is available on Amazon for less than 60 euros.
VR applications
You are now ready to embark on a virtual journey. You just need to have the appropriate applications. Fortunately, there are a lot of virtual reality applications on the App Store. There is really something to have fun with.
- Google Expeditions: a free visit to the most beautiful places around the world
- Roller Coaster VR: a roller coaster simulator
- End Space VR: this game will put you in the shoes of a spaceship pilot
- GoPro VR: the 360-degree video platform for users of the GoPro sports camera. Content comes from users
- London VR: virtual tour of London's most beautiful monuments
- Jaunt VR: a selection of immersive videos to go around the world
- Crazy Swing VR: a fantastic ride through a virtual fun fair
Please note that not all applications are compatible with the different models of VR headsets presented above. Take the time to read the description of the application.
