Tech

Google invented the best virtual reality app I've ever tried — you’ve gotta see it for yourself

Dave Smith

2016-04-09T12:22:43Z

The $800 HTC Vive virtual reality headset isn’t for everyone, but it can truly do some incredible things.

I've been a huge fan of the HTC Vive since I first tried it last year, and some of the best VR apps out there are exclusive to this device. One of those particular apps, which is owned by Google, is the best VR app I’ve ever tried, and it has endless potential for creative types.

It’s called Tilt Brush.

For some people, nothing is more satisfying or therapeutic than drawing, sculpting, or painting on a canvas. Google Tilt Brush effortlessly combines all of these activities using the magic of VR, which totally takes artwork to a new level. You have to see it for yourself.

Google Tilt Brush is all about creating 3D art — with the HTC Vive headset, you can actually walk around these works to view your art from a new perspective.

No professional experience required! If you're not a painter you can doodle to your heart's content.

But with practice, you can actually create some truly incredible works of art.

How about a fire breathing dragon?

Or how about this insane work of art? It's kind of like Zeus meets M.C. Escher.

To create these artistic works, Google gives you lots of different tools.

Some are straightforward, like this color picker.

Other tools Google created are much more interesting and complex.

Take Mirror Mode: You can create mirrors and move them around to create beautiful symmetrical works.

Some tools and effects would be difficult to recreate in real life, like this rainbow brush.

Or this cool blurring effect.

You can even change the background, or "environment," instantly. It totally changes the look of your art.

Like what you've done? Take a screenshot!

My favorite aspect of Google Tilt Brush is how simple it is. Google provides a big blank canvas and plenty of fun toys to play with, but it's also precise enough if you're serious about creating 3D artwork.

I can't wait to see what kinds of crazy creations people make with Google Tilt Brush.

To use Google Tilt Brush, you'll need an HTC Vive virtual reality headset. Once it's all set up and you've downloaded the Steam app, you can just visit this site to launch Tilt Brush. If you own an HTC Vive, this app is a must-own. Happy tilting and/or brushing (ideally both)!

On February 28, Axel Springer, Business Insider's parent company, joined 31 other media groups and filed a $2.3 billion suit against Google in Dutch court, alleging losses suffered due to the company's advertising practices.

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