20 best VR apps to Explore in 2024

Last updated on March 29th, 2024

Virtual reality (VR) technology has advanced significantly in recent years, revolutionizing the way we engage with digital experiences. The increased accessibility and affordability of VR headsets have opened up a world of possibilities for users of all backgrounds. From immersive gaming adventures to educational simulations, the realm of free VR apps continues to expand, offering a diverse range of content to explore and enjoy.

For those venturing into the virtual reality space or seeking fresh experiences, we’ve curated an exclusive selection of the top 20 free VR apps for the year 2024. This carefully chosen list encompasses a wide array of genres, catering to various interests such as gaming, entertainment, education, and productivity. Dive into the future of digital interaction with these innovative apps that promise to elevate your VR journey to new heights.

10 Best VR Apps in 2024

Also read: AR Vs VR: Difference Between Augmented Vs Virtual Reality

20 Best Free VR Apps for iPhone and Android

1. Space Explorers: The ISS Experience

Embark on a thrilling and educational virtual reality journey to the International Space Station, where you can immerse yourself in the captivating life of an astronaut. Explore the innovative VR application that allows you to delve into the intricacies of the space station, engage in fascinating experiments, and uncover the awe-inspiring mysteries of the cosmos. Experience the wonders of space like never before as you float in microgravity, conduct experiments, and gaze at the stars from the ISS windows. Get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure that will ignite your curiosity and sense of wonder!

2. YouTube: Best VR App for 360-Degree Videos

Transform your smartphone into the ultimate VR device by accessing YouTube’s extensive collection of immersive virtual reality content. Whether you seek the adrenaline rush of virtual roller coasters, the magic of live concerts, or the wonder of wildlife documentaries, YouTube presents a myriad of 360-degree videos that promise to transport you to captivating new realms. Experience this innovative technology by downloading the app, choosing the “Cardboard” option, and embarking on a journey into a whole new world of entertainment.

3. Within VR

Explore the creative genius of artists, filmmakers, and musicians who have harnessed the power of virtual reality to offer a unique sensory experience. Within VR presents an impressive collection of high-quality 360-degree videos that encompass various genres, from thrilling adventures to heartwarming stories. This app also allows you to connect with your friends and share your favorite experiences, making it a social platform for virtual reality enthusiasts. With new content added regularly, Within VR is the perfect app to heighten your senses and transport you to other worlds.

4. The Guardian VR

Step into the captivating world of journalism and immerse yourself in a whole new perspective with The Guardian VR app. Delve into powerful storytelling and experience immersive footage that transports you on an emotional journey, allowing you to witness real-life events from vantage points previously inaccessible to traditional media. Whether it’s covering impactful global conflicts or shedding light on crucial social issues, The Guardian VR app introduces a new dimension of understanding and empathy to current affairs, revolutionizing how we engage with news. Download this app now to embark on an unparalleled virtual reality experience that redefines journalism.

5. Provata VR

Discover the ultimate mind-body connection through virtual reality with Provata VR. Dive into a world where relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and guided meditation converge in a mesmerizing environment that immerses you in peaceful landscapes and tranquil settings. Explore a range of meticulously crafted programs tailored to enhance your sleep quality, manage stress effectively, or elevate your overall well-being. Provata VR offers a distinctive avenue to detach from the noise of the external world and concentrate on nurturing your inner self. Whether you’re well-versed in meditation practices or just starting out, this app presents a seamless and revitalizing approach to attaining equilibrium and mindfulness throughout your daily routine. Immerse yourself in the transformative capabilities of virtual reality for holistic wellness with Provata VR.

6. Dreams of Dali VR

Take a surreal trip through the mind of legendary artist Salvador Dalí with Dreams of Dali VR. This innovative app allows you to explore and interact with some of his most iconic paintings, such as The Persistence of Memory and Galatea of the Spheres, in a never-before-seen way. Through stunning virtual reality technology, you can immerse yourself in dreamlike landscapes and come face-to-face with Dalí’s eccentric characters. Discover hidden details, unlock secrets, and experience his art like never before. Dreams of Dali VR offers a unique and captivating glimpse into the world of one of the most renowned artists in history.

7. Quill by Smoothstep

Quill by Smoothstep is a revolutionary app that allows you to unleash your creativity and bring your imagination to life in virtual reality. Through intuitive tools and features, you can sketch, paint, sculpt, and animate with unprecedented precision and control. Whether you’re an artist looking for a new medium or just someone who enjoys doodling, Quill offers endless possibilities for self-expression. With its immersive and intuitive interface, you can easily lose yourself in the process of creating and exploring your own virtual world. Quill by Smoothstep is a must-try for anyone looking to push the boundaries of creativity and experience art in a whole new way.

8. Gravity Sketch

Say goodbye to the limitations of traditional 2D sketching and enter a whole new world of possibilities with Gravity Sketch. This innovative app revolutionizes the way you bring your ideas to life by offering a seamless transition from 2D to complex 3D designs in virtual reality. Architects, designers, and creative minds alike can immerse themselves in a realm of creativity with Gravity Sketch’s intuitive interface and groundbreaking features like multi-user collaboration.

Unleash your imagination as you design architectural marvels, intricate products, or captivating characters for video games. Gravity Sketch empowers you to manifest your visions with unmatched speed and precision, ensuring your creations come to life exactly as you envision them. Step into the realm of endless creativity and boundless productivity with Gravity Sketch – where innovation knows no bounds.

9. Tilt Brush

Take your art to a whole new dimension with Tilt Brush, a virtual reality painting app that lets you paint in 3D space. Get lost in the ethereal world of Tilt Brush as you create mesmerizing masterpieces using brushes, colors, and textures beyond your wildest imagination. With its intuitive interface and endless possibilities, Tilt Brush is the perfect tool for artists, designers, and hobbyists to unleash their creativity and explore new forms of expression.

Collaborate with others in real-time or share your creations with the world using Tilt Brush’s social features. Take full control of your virtual canvas as you walk around your artwork, manipulate it from different angles, and even incorporate sound effects to enhance the immersive experience. Tilt Brush truly blurs the line between reality and imagination, giving you the power to turn your wildest dreams into stunning visual realities. Start painting in a whole new dimension with Tilt Brush today.

10. Kingspray Graffiti Simulator

Experience the thrill of tagging without the risk of getting caught with Kingspray Graffiti Simulator. This virtual reality app lets you unleash your inner graffiti artist on realistic surfaces and environments, allowing you to create vibrant street art without any consequences. With its cutting-edge spray paint simulation and authentic graffiti tools, Kingspray is the ultimate playground for graffiti enthusiasts.

Choose from a variety of surfaces, from brick walls to subway cars, and let your imagination run wild with an endless color palette. Collaborate with friends in online multiplayer mode or compete against each other to see who can create the most impressive piece. With realistic physics and detailed environments, Kingspray Graffiti Simulator provides a truly immersive experience for graffiti artists of all levels.

11. Jaunt VR

Step into the world of virtual reality with Jaunt VR. This app offers a wide selection of immersive experiences, from thrilling adventures to breathtaking documentaries, all in high-quality 360-degree video. With Jaunt VR, you can explore new worlds and cultures without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Experience concerts from the front row, go on safari in Africa, or dive into the depths of the ocean – all in stunning 3D VR. With new content added regularly, Jaunt VR offers endless possibilities for virtual exploration and entertainment. So grab your VR headset and get ready to be transported to another world with Jaunt VR.

12. Second Life

Take a break from reality and immerse yourself in the captivating virtual realm of Second Life. This open-ended online platform offers you the freedom to craft your unique avatar, design intricate homes and bustling businesses, and engage with a diverse community of users spanning the globe. Whether you’re indulging in virtual shopping extravaganzas or participating in thrilling live events, Second Life presents a myriad of engaging activities to explore. Beyond its entertainment value, Second Life serves as a vibrant sanctuary for individuals to unite, showcasing their individuality, fostering collaborative creativity, and nurturing authentic connections with like-minded peers. Join this dynamic community where self-expression thrives, creativity flourishes, and genuine relationships blossom.

13. Sinespace

Step into a virtual world where you can create, explore, and connect with others in real-time – welcome to Sinespace. This top-rated app offers a vast universe of endless possibilities, from building your dream home to launching your own business to attending live events with friends. With its user-friendly tools and intuitive controls, Sinespace makes it easy for anyone to design and customize their virtual experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of virtual reality, Sinespace offers something for everyone. So come join the community, unleash your creativity, and discover all that Sinespace has to offer. The possibilities are limitless in this exciting virtual realm.

14. AltspaceVR

Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind social experience with AltspaceVR. This innovative virtual reality platform brings people together from all over the world to interact, play games, attend live events, and even create their own worlds. With its cross-platform compatibility, AltspaceVR allows users to connect with friends regardless of their device or location. Whether you’re looking for a virtual escape from reality or wanting to connect with like-minded individuals, AltspaceVR has something for everyone. So put on your VR headset and join the growing community in this exciting and ever-evolving virtual world. The possibilities are endless when you open the doors to AltspaceVR.

15. Titans of Space

Embark on an educational journey through our solar system and beyond with Titans of Space. This immersive VR experience takes you on a tour of the universe, showcasing accurate representations of planets, moons, stars, and galaxies. You can even customize your trip by choosing which destinations to visit and learn more about. With its stunning graphics and informative narration, Titans of Space is a great way to learn and explore the vastness of our universe. So why not take a break from the real world and let Titans of Space take you on an out-of-this-world adventure? The possibilities for discovery are endless in this virtual cosmos.

16. Google Earth VR

Discover the world from a whole new perspective in Google Earth VR. This virtual reality version of the popular mapping software allows you to fly over cities, explore remote locations, and even stand on top of Mount Everest – all without leaving your house. With its realistic 3D graphics and intuitive controls, Google Earth VR offers a truly immersive experience that will leave you feeling like you’ve traveled to these places in real life. So why not take a trip around the world without ever having to pack a suitcase? In Google Earth VR, the only limit is your imagination.  Soar over famous landmarks, dive into stunning ocean vistas, and even travel through time with historical imagery. With Google Earth VR, you have the whole world at your fingertips.

17. Full-dive VR

In the world of virtual reality, full-dive is the ultimate experience. It allows users to completely immerse themselves in a digital environment, using all their senses to interact with and experience a virtual world. While this technology may still be in its early stages, it holds immense potential for entertainment, education, and even therapy. Imagine being able to fully explore a fantasy world, learn a new skill, or overcome a fear in a completely safe and controlled environment. Full-dive VR has the power to bring our wildest dreams to life and revolutionize the way we interact with technology.  So buckle up and get ready to dive into a whole new world with full-dive VR. The possibilities are truly endless.

18.Littlstar VR

Littlstar is a popular virtual reality platform that features a wide variety of immersive content, ranging from 360-degree videos to full-length movies and TV shows. With Littlstar VR, you can step into the world of your favorite films and shows, or experience real-life events like concerts and sporting events as if you were there in person. You can even upload your own content and share it with the Littlstar community. With a user-friendly interface and compatibility with various VR headsets, Littlstar VR makes it easy for anyone to access and enjoy virtual reality content.  So why not join the thousands of users already diving into this exciting platform? The possibilities for entertainment are endless.

19. Google Cardboard

As one of the most affordable and accessible virtual reality headsets on the market, Google Cardboard has made it possible for anyone with a smartphone to experience VR. Created by Google in 2014, this low-cost headset is made out of cardboard and uses a smartphone as its screen. By downloading compatible apps or using the built-in Google Cardboard app, users can explore virtual worlds, play games, and watch videos all from their phone. With its simple design and widespread availability, Google Cardboard has opened up the world of VR to a wider audience than ever before. So why not grab yourself a Google Cardboard and see for yourself what all the hype is about? The possibilities for entertainment and education are endless with this affordable VR headset.   So go ahead, dive into the world of virtual reality and experience things like never before. With Google Cardboard, the possibilities are truly endless.

20. Discovery VR

Are you a fan of documentaries and educational content? Then Discovery VR is the perfect platform for you. This virtual reality app offers immersive 360-degree videos that take you on adventures around the world, from nature documentaries to space exploration. With its high-quality visuals and informative content, Discovery VR allows users to truly feel like they are part of the experience. And with new content being added regularly, there’s always something new to discover. So why not take a break from traditional TV and explore the world through virtual reality with Discovery VR? With this platform, the possibilities for education and exploration are endless.

Read More: A Complete Guide to Virtual Reality in Tourism & Travel

How to Make a Virtual Reality App?

Creating a virtual reality app may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be achievable. Here are some general steps to follow when making a virtual reality app:

• Define your concept: The first step is to have a clear idea of what you want your VR app to do. Will it be for entertainment or education? What type of content will it offer? Having a solid concept in mind will guide the development process.

• Choose a platform: There are various virtual reality platforms available, such as Google Cardboard, Oculus Rift, and Samsung Gear VR. Depending on your target audience and budget, choose the platform that best suits your needs.

• Understand the technology: Virtual reality technology can be complex, so it’s important to have a basic understanding of how it works and what is required for development. This will also help you make informed decisions during the development process.

• Develop your content: Whether it’s games, videos, or interactive experiences, creating high-quality and engaging content is crucial for a successful virtual reality app. Make sure to test your content on different platforms to ensure compatibility.

• Use VR development tools: There are many tools available specifically for VR app development, such as Unity and Unreal Engine. These can help streamline the process and make it easier to create a polished final product.

• Test and iterate: As with any app development, testing and iterating is crucial for identifying and fixing bugs or issues. In virtual reality, it’s even more important as user experience is heavily dependent on the quality of the content and technology.

• Consider user comfort: Virtual reality can be an intense experience, so it’s important to keep in mind factors like motion sickness and eye strain when developing your app. Incorporating breaks, settings for sensitivity adjustments, and providing clear instructions can help enhance user comfort.

How Much Does it Cost to Make an App for VR?

The cost of developing a virtual reality (VR) app can vary widely based on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the app, the content it offers, and the platforms it targets. For basic VR applications that provide simple experiences with limited interaction, the cost typically starts at around $5,000 to $10,000. However, more sophisticated VR apps, such as immersive games or educational tools with intricate environments and interactions, can cost between $40,000 to over $150,000. When it comes to large-scale projects that demand extensive customization and high-quality graphics, expenses can easily surpass the aforementioned range. Furthermore, ongoing maintenance and updates play a crucial role in the overall investment required for a VR app. It’s vital to weigh these factors carefully and allocate a budget accordingly to ensure the success of your VR application in the competitive market.

Factors Influencing the Cost of VR App Development:

• Complexity and Feature Set: The more intricate the application becomes with advanced features such as augmented reality elements or complex algorithms, the higher the development cost is likely to be due to the need for specialized expertise and more intricate coding structures.

• Content Creation: Developing high-quality, interactive 3D content demands significant effort and resources in terms of skilled designers, animators, and software tools, thus leading to an increase in the overall expenses associated with content development.

• Target Platforms: When considering development for multiple platforms like Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and other VR devices, the costs can escalate due to the necessity for tailored adaptations, rigorous testing, and platform-specific optimizations to ensure optimal performance across all devices.

• Development Time: Projects with tight deadlines often require accelerated development processes, increased manpower, and additional resources to meet the timeframe, consequently impacting the overall cost of the project.

• Maintenance and Updates: Ongoing maintenance and regular updates are crucial to sustain the application’s relevance, functionality, and compatibility with evolving technologies, necessitating continuous investment in resources, time, and expertise.

• Marketing and Distribution: Setting aside a budget for comprehensive marketing strategies and distribution efforts on prominent platforms like Steam VR, Oculus Store, and app marketplaces is essential to enhance visibility, user engagement, and the overall success of the application, adding to the total cost considerations.

Suggested: How Much Does it Cost to Create An App

How can iTechnolabs help you to build the best VR apps?

iTechnolabs is a leading VR development company with years of experience in creating exceptional virtual reality applications for various industries. Our team of skilled developers, designers, and animators have the expertise to deliver high-quality content that meets your specific requirements.

We understand that VR development can be expensive, and we strive to provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Our team works closely with clients to understand their needs and budget, and we offer customized development plans to suit their requirements.

Moreover, our team stays updated with the latest VR technologies, ensuring that your application is developed using the most advanced tools and techniques. We also provide ongoing support for maintenance and updates to ensure your app remains relevant and functional in the constantly evolving VR landscape.

• Customized Development: iTechnolabs offers tailored development plans based on the client’s specific requirements and budget, ensuring the final VR application aligns with their vision and goals.
• Expert Team: Our team consists of experienced developers, designers, and animators who specialize in VR technology, guaranteeing high-quality content creation and immersive user experiences.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: We are committed to providing the best value for our clients, delivering top-tier virtual reality applications at competitive prices without compromising on quality.
• Advanced Technology Utilization: Staying abreast of the latest advancements in VR, our team utilizes cutting-edge tools and techniques for app development, ensuring your application stands out in the market.
• Ongoing Support: iTechnolabs provides continuous support for maintenance and updates, making sure your VR application remains functional and relevant amidst the rapidly evolving technology landscape.
• Comprehensive Marketing Strategy: Understanding the importance of visibility, we also assist in devising effective marketing and distribution strategies to maximize user engagement and ensure success across platforms like Steam VR, Oculus Store, and more.

Are you planning to build the best VR apps?

Choosing iTechnolabs for your VR application development offers numerous advantages that fundamentally enhance the quality, reach, and impact of your virtual reality apps. Our expert team leverages advanced technology and tools to create immersive, high-quality VR experiences that captivate users and encourage engagement. With customized development solutions, we ensure that each project aligns perfectly with the client’s vision, meeting and often exceeding their expectations. The cost-effective solutions we provide do not compromise on quality, making us an ideal partner for startups and established enterprises alike. Furthermore, our comprehensive marketing strategy support helps in effectively promoting your VR app, ensuring it reaches the intended audience and achieves its full potential on major platforms. The ongoing support for maintenance and updates we offer keeps your application up-to-date, securing its relevancy and functionality in the fast-paced world of VR technology.

• Innovative Solutions: iTechnolabs prides itself on harnessing cutting-edge technology to develop VR applications that go beyond mere innovation to offer users an immersive experience. By creating virtual environments that are not just innovative but also deeply engaging, iTechnolabs ensures users are transported to a world where technology meets imagination seamlessly.
• Customized Development: Every VR project undertaken by iTechnolabs is meticulously crafted to meet the unique needs of each client. By tailoring the development process to align perfectly with the client’s vision and goals, iTechnolabs delivers bespoke solutions that are truly personalized. This attention to detail ensures that the end product not only meets but exceeds the client’s expectations, offering a tailored experience like no other.
• Expert Team: At iTechnolabs, a dedicated team of experienced professionals, each specializing in the intricacies of VR technology, collaborates to deliver top-tier results. By leveraging their expertise and passion for VR, the team ensures that every project is executed with precision and finesse. This commitment to excellence sets iTechnolabs apart in the competitive landscape of VR application development, guaranteeing high-quality, professional outputs that leave a lasting impression.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While maintaining a reputation for unparalleled quality, iTechnolabs remains committed to providing cost-effective solutions. By offering high-quality VR applications at budget-friendly rates, iTechnolabs makes cutting-edge technology accessible to startups and established businesses alike. This dedication to affordability ensures that clients receive exceptional value without compromising on quality or innovation.
• Visibility & Engagement: Beyond development, iTechnolabs goes the extra mile to support clients in creating impactful marketing and distribution strategies. By assisting in promoting VR applications effectively, iTechnolabs ensures that the products reach their intended audience with maximum impact. This focus on visibility and engagement enhances user interaction and drives the success of the application, making it a standout choice in the competitive VR market.
• Ongoing Support & Updates: Recognizing the rapid pace of technological advancements, iTechnolabs offers continuous support to ensure that VR applications remain relevant and functional in the long run. By providing regular updates and maintenance services, iTechnolabs ensures that clients stay ahead of the curve, adapting to new technologies and evolving user needs seamlessly. This ongoing commitment to support guarantees that VR applications developed by iTechnolabs stand the test of time, delivering lasting value to clients and users alike.

Important: Augmented Reality Development Guide: Technologies, Devices and Platforms

Conclusion: 

In conclusion, iTechnolabs stands out as a leading VR development company due to its unwavering commitment to quality, cost-effectiveness, visibility and engagement, and ongoing support. By offering cutting-edge solutions at affordable rates and providing extensive support throughout the entire process, iTechnolabs ensures that clients receive exceptional value and success with their VR applications. With an eye towards the future and a passion for innovation, iTechnolabs is well equipped to meet the ever-growing demand for high-quality VR experiences in various industries.

FAQs on Best Free VR Apps

1. What are VR apps?

VR apps are cutting-edge virtual reality applications that leverage immersive technology to create a highly realistic 3D environment. Users can engage with and immerse themselves in this virtual world as if they were physically present. These innovative applications offer a wide range of experiences and interactions, enhancing the way users engage with digital content. Accessible through a variety of devices like VR headsets and smartphones, VR apps are revolutionizing the way we perceive and interact with technology.

2. What Do I Need to Use a VR App?

To engage with a VR application, you must possess a compatible device like a VR headset or a smartphone equipped with a VR viewer. These specialized gadgets are crucial in crafting the immersive setting that is fundamental for delving into the virtual reality realm. Furthermore, certain applications might necessitate the utilization of controllers to facilitate navigation and interaction within the simulated environment.

3. Are all VR apps compatible with all VR headsets?

No, not all VR apps are compatible with all VR headsets. Different VR headsets have unique specifications and capabilities that might impact the quality of the VR experience offered by an application. It is vital to ensure that your device’s specifications align with the requirements of the VR app you wish to use for optimal performance and user experience.

4. Are VR Apps Expensive?

While some VR apps might require a one-time purchase or subscription fee, there are many high-quality VR applications available for free. These apps offer a wide range of experiences, from educational and informative to entertainment and gaming. Additionally, many virtual reality platforms like Oculus and PlayStation offer a selection of free VR apps for their respective devices.

5. Can I Create My Own App?

Yes, it is possible to create your own VR app with the right tools and knowledge. Many software development kits (SDKs) are available for those interested in developing their own virtual reality applications. Some popular options include Unity, Unreal Engine, and WebVR. These SDKs provide developers with the necessary tools and resources to bring their VR app ideas to life.

6. How Much Does it Cost to Develop a VR App?

The cost of developing a VR app can vary greatly depending on the complexity and features of the application. It also depends on whether you are using an SDK, hiring a developer, or creating the app yourself. On average, it can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $250,000 to develop a high-quality VR app.

7. Where Can I Find More VR Apps?

There are many sources to find VR apps, including online app stores for VR devices like Oculus and PlayStation. There are also numerous websites and forums dedicated to sharing and discussing virtual reality applications. Additionally, attending VR conferences or events can provide opportunities to discover and try out new VR apps.  So, don’t hesitate to explore and discover the vast world of VR apps!   With the growing popularity of virtual reality, new and exciting apps are continuously being developed. Keep an eye out for upcoming releases and updates to your favorite VR apps.

8. Is VR Safe for Children?

As with any form of technology, it is important for parents to monitor their children’s use of VR devices and apps. While virtual reality can be a fun and immersive experience, prolonged or excessive use may have negative effects on children’s developing brains. It is recommended to follow the age guidelines provided by VR device manufacturers and to limit children’s usage time. It is also important to ensure that children are using VR apps appropriate for their age and maturity level. Parents should also be aware of potential physical risks, such as motion sickness, and take necessary precautions.