News organisations have been experimenting with virtual reality and 360-degree video as standalone experiences delivered through mobile apps or as part of larger multimedia projects featuring text, images and data visualisations.

When the team at the FT's Weekend Magazine started conceptualising the third instalment in the ongoing Hidden Cities series, incorporating a 360-degree video showing viewers around the city's favelas seemed like a "natural step forward".

In this week's episode, Natalie Whittle, associate editor for FT Weekend, explains why the outlet decided to make its first experiment with virtual reality part of an existing project, and the potential this technology has to enrich FT Weekend journalism in the future.

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