Facebook demonstrates virtual reality tech

RALEIGH (WTVD) -- At 3 a.m. Thursday, a special delivery arrived at the North Hills Shopping Center. A flatbed truck hauled a glass trailer into the Commons area. Staff stepped in and immediately got to the work. Facebook sent a crew to open a pop-up shop.

The social media powerhouse is partnering with Samsung and letting folks test out virtual reality gear (VR).

"(This) is a perfect introduction for people for people who has never tried VR before. The experience is free to the public," Facebook said in a statement.

VR can be linked up to a Facebook account to watch videos or play games.

Facebook's stop in the Capital City is part of a 30-city virtual tour.

The company tells ABC11 the North Hills location in Raleigh was picked because of its high foot traffic and diversity.

"We're excited," said North Hills General Manager Bonner Gaylord. "It's wonderful to provide this amenity here to community. We hope everybody will come up here and experience virtual reality and learn about their world."

And it is offering a quick escape.

"When you're down on the Earth and then asteroids or whatever going by, it's pretty impressive," explained Fred Turner.

"Oh my gosh this is cool," said Scott Spangler as he was testing out the technology.

"I kind of forgot that I was staying here physically," said CLiff McKinn after trying out the gear.

Users can hang out with dinosaurs, go on a tour of Thailand, see elephants on safari, fly through outer-space, and play hoops with Lebron James.

Facebook's visit to the Capitol City is short. The pop-up is open Thursday through Sunday from noon until 8:00 p.m.