The Voice UK is debuting a Virtual Reality series

Viewers of The Voice UK can soon get closer than ever to the action with a brand-new Virtual Reality series.

Virtual Voice uses new digital technology to provide a complete 360°​ viewing experience as contestants audition before coaches will.i.am, Ricky Wilson, Boy George and Paloma Faith.

Premiering on BBC Taster today (December 19) at 7pm, the Virtual Audition video shows you around the backstage area before stepping onto The Voice stage.

Starting in January, additional video will bring you along for coaches' photoshoots, band rehearsals and put you straight in the mosh pit for a group performance from the coaches.

As for how you can experience Virtual Voice without a VR headset, the series will make extensive use of YouTube and mobile devices.

iPlayer editor Sarah Clay explains: "The most immersive way of experiencing the clips is through a virtual reality headset. As the technology is in its early stages, there are no standalone virtual reality headsets available in shops (yet) but there are several that turn your smartphone into one, including ones made of Cardboard.

"But you can also experience them via YouTube within our Voice HomeCoach App, allowing fans to use their smartphones or tablets to explore the 360° scenes simply by moving their devices around them, and via a desktop or laptop PC."

The Voice's HomeCoach App previously brought interactive elements to the BBC series, letting fans vote on their favourite performances as if they were coaches.

This announcement was made on the same day as The Voice UK unveiled first-look pictures – showing will.i.am, Ricky Wilson, Boy George and Paloma Faith customising their spinning chairs.

The Voice UK returns in January for its last series on BBC One, before moving to ITV in 2017.