FACEBOOK Inc on Thursday launched a feature that allows users to upload photos with 360-degree views.

According to Facebook, users only need to capture a panorama with their mobile phone camera or via a third party 360-degree camera app, and then post it on Facebook -- just uploading a normal photo.

Facebook will then convert it to an immersive 360 photo which people can explore, similar to how people experience 360 videos on Facebook.

Users who view the 360 photo with the compass icon can scan around it by tilting the phone or dragging with their finger

Besides that, users are able also to explore Facebook 360 photos in virtual reality with the Samsung Gear VR, powered by Oculus.

“Now your friends can experience the moments you share in 360 as if they were actually there with you, from hiking through a national park, to wandering through a museum, to celebrating a wedding,” wrote Facebook.

Facebook Product Manager, Andy Huang photos on Facebook were introduced more than a decade ago, and quickly became one of the main ways that people share their experiences.

“But Facebook believes video, 360, and VR are the future of sharing, so the feed is adapting. Perhaps one day Instagram will get 360 support too,” he said.

The new feature can be used on iOS, Android, web, and Gear VR.