Independent PR agency Zing has added a Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) offering to its communications portfolio to create a new company called ZVR.

Launched out of a growing need from Zing’s clients to add VR/AR content to their communication campaigns, ZVR specialises in content creation and activation.

“Virtual Reality has been on our radar for a few years now,” said creative director Preya McMahon (pictured).

“After personally investing in volumetric VR 18 months ago and working collaboratively on a VR documentary that premiered at Sundance this year called #100humans, I saw the opportunity for clients to enrich their campaigns through powerful story telling that reaches consumers in a hugely exciting and immersive way.

“The cut-through and intensity of VR is something you really have to experience to believe. Once you have tried VR it’s easy to think about how it can be used to amplify branded content.”

With several clients already on board for content creation and others for activations, the ZVR offering is a new direction for the agency, now moving into its 17th year.

ZVR has collaborated with Sydney based virtual reality studio StartVR to offer a full suite of VR products including Augmented Reality. Most recently, StartVR became a Nokia partner with access to film content through its new OZO VR camera.

Preya added, “We are able to do everything from 360 shoots, stitching and all post production. Holograms (volumetric VR) are a new addition for us, especially now that smartphone technology is catching up. We are also able to create the app that allows VR & AR content to be stored and used on both Android and iOS platforms.

“We can then help clients communicate and activate their campaigns using Google Cardboards or Samsung GEAR technology – either on a 1:1 basis or out in the public via street activations. The interest in this space is huge and consumers will line up just to get the chance to give it a try.”

On partnering with Zing, Kain Tietzel, CEO of Start VR said, “We’ve experienced an explosion of growth in VR and 360 production since our collaboration first started with Zing. Their experience in retail and event activations and a working knowledge of VR production really sets them apart. We are excited and delighted to be partnering with ZVR”.