Norwich firm Immersive VR gets ahead of the curve for virtual reality launch

Immersive VR. Left to right, Paul Emery, James Burrows, Matthew Martin and Steve Bjorck. Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2015)

But soon VR headsets will be available on the mass market, and a Norwich firm is poised to take advantage of the new technology when it is released early next year.

Immersive VR, based in King Street, Norwich, was launched in May by Matthew Martin and James Burrows.

It aims to harness virtual reality technology to help businesses in areas such as marketing, tourism and training.

Mr Martin, managing director, said: 'Virtual reality is set to be the biggest release in 2016 and we are ahead of the curve.

'Most people are using it for gaming, but we are using it as a business tool.

'It allows you to experience something before it exists.'

The business, which has grown to six people and is soon to take on extra office space, has clients including a luxury yacht manufacturer, an automotive firm and an architects' practice.

'You can show someone what it's like to zoom around a race track or preview a model of a car that hasn't been made yet,' said Mr Martin.

'They could experience a luxury yacht, and in real time switch out all the features. You really feel you are there.'

The firm is also working with an offshore oil and gas company to simulate real-life situations on a rig to help with training.

It was launched with £250,000 of private investment, and has an expected first-year turnover of £250,000.

In five years they hope to have offices around the world.

'We want to be established before the technology hits the consumer market,' said Mr Martin.

'No one else is doing this around here that we know of. We want to be the go-to guys for virtual reality.'

Watch the video on your tablet or iPhone to experience virtual reality.

Have you launched a new business? Call business writer Sabah Meddings on 01603 772879 or email sabah.meddings@archant.co.uk