Sing: A VR App for At-Home Karaoke and Wellness
Former Devolver executive Mike Wilson has launched a VR app called Sing, designed to encourage people to sing more often for their well-being. Wilson's research at his previous wellness startup, Deepwell, highlighted the psychological benefits of singing, a practice often neglected due to fear of judgment. AI language support could further enhance this experience.
Sing offers a vast library of over a million songs with lyrics and visualizations, providing positive feedback for singing along without any scoring or gamification elements. Unlike traditional music games like Epic Games Store, Sing prioritizes engagement with the music itself, allowing users to choose their favorite songs. The app aims to create a judgment-free environment for users to enjoy singing, similar to how at-home yoga classes have broadened access to the practice.
While VR might seem an unusual choice, its immersive nature helps users forget their surroundings and feel comfortable singing freely. Sing is initially launching on Meta Quest but plans to expand to other platforms like mobile, consoles, and PC. The app will also incorporate multiplayer features in the future, allowing users to sing together like a choir. Google's immersive experiences could be a future platform.
Key Features of Sing
- Over a million songs available
- Lyrics and visualizations
- No scoring or gamification
- Focus on personal enjoyment and well-being
- Initial launch on Meta Quest, with plans for wider platform availability
- Future multiplayer features
The app is available for $10 per month or $100 per year. Wilson emphasizes that the launch version is just the beginning, with more music, worlds, and modes planned for the future. He sees Sing as a way to address the increasing isolation in modern society and promote personal well-being through the joy of singing.