Let’s unpack the term virtual reality. What is VR?
Well, “virtual” meaning almost or near something and “reality” as in human experience. So virtual reality emulates “near the human experience.”
In other words, virtual reality mimics human reality in the digital space.
VR was derived from the Sensorama invented in 1957, and patented in 1962. The sensorama was an interactive theatre in which the viewers would sit in a rotating chair and stereoscopic images, similar images taken at two different angles, creating depth.
The Sensorama was complete with speakers, oscillating fans, and scents that gave an IMAX experience in the 1950s.
In the 1980s NASA emulated the Ultimate Display, a head-mounted display created by Ivan Sutherland. NASA used virtual reality for projects and training to mimic space travel.
Following this in the 1990s, gentleman Jaron Lanier and Tom Zimmerman marketed virtual reality. They, unfortunately, made the fatal marketing error in overselling the benefits of the product, leading to decrease consumer trust.
In the present day, researchers and marketers are doing just the opposite, underselling its capabilities. They are often calling it, “virtual environment” as to not discredit the value of legitimate human experience.
If you think of it like going to the movie theater, think about how the size of the screen in front of you occupies so much of your sight and peripheral vision, that you can barely see what else is around you, assuming you have decent seats of course.
Virtual reality essentially takes this to another level. The VR headset has a screen in front of each eye, eliminating any images from the real world.
There are then two autofocus lenses in between the screen and the eye that move and focus along with each eye’s individual movement. The visuals are derived from either a mobile phone or PC attachment.
On the technical end, there are frame rate requirements that ensure the view refreshes quickly enough it can move with your eyes and head movements. This also ensures that VR is safe on the eyes, as tearing can result from the delay between the frame and refresh rate.
Too much of a time gap harms user experience and snatches them back into physical reality.
We know virtual reality means “near reality.” Augmented in the dictionary, is defined as “made greater, larger, or more complete.” So in a sense, augmented reality is a greater, enhanced reality. This differences from virtual reality, which is more of an immersive, artificial experience.
Forms of AR include snapchat filters, Pokemon Go, or the IKEA Place app which lets you place furniture inside a picture of your home.
Augmented reality acts as an advanced, seamless photoshop, while virtual reality takes users outside of themselves and into this new digital constructed reality.
Virtual reality has legitimate applications across a variety of industries for training and simulation activities including military, healthcare, education, engineering, construction and many more!
For consumer use, VR can provide entertainment, experiential learning, even relaxation through medication.
To learn more about the applications of VR and AR, follow the links below:
Augmented reality (AR) blends virtual elements with the real world. For example, it could bring an animated character into someone’s home or allow them to try on makeup without actually putting products on their skin. When used strategically, it can open opportunities for professionals in industries ranging from marketing to health care. During the early …
Augmented reality (AR) apps are one of the most exciting new developments made possible by cutting-edge mobile technology — motion-tracking and advanced camera software that can allow developers to combine their vision with a user’s environment. But you can’t approach AR development like you would any other app — you’ll need special tools to properly …
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that blends virtual elements with aspects that exist in the real world. It’s come a long way in a short time and shows no signs of slowing down. Here are some of the latest developments in augmented reality that should be on your radar. More Brands Rely on AR …
Our current technology has taken a lot of cues from science-fiction and turned them into real science. The fictional aspect allows people to have ideas that are as vast as their imagination. Science allows us to figure out how those imaginative ideas are actually possible. Some of those formerly fictional ideas include virtual and augmented …
Virtual reality or VR is a technology that big tech companies have been working on for a while. They’re getting better at getting people into a virtual world, though. From putting a person right into a video game to taking a virtual tour of an area all from a headset, we’re getting better at diving …
Video games aren’t usually the first thing you think of when it comes to fitness, but the introduction of virtual reality is turning these games into a legitimate fitness tool. What virtual reality applications for fitness should you be adding to your weekly workout? How Does Virtual Reality Work? First, how does virtual reality work? …
Virtual reality, or VR, is pretty amazing. It can make you feel like you’re somewhere you’re not, experiencing something you’re not experiencing in the real world. Thanks to this exciting new technology, you can do anything from swimming with dolphins to flying a fighter jet in a virtual world that feels real. But what exactly …
Virtual reality (VR) has finally made it into the mainstream. Now, instead of being something people only think about on a theoretical basis, they can explore and even buy those technologies to try at home. Here are seven of the best VR technologies coming to the forefront in 2019. 1. Standard VR Headsets With Notable …
Augmented reality (AR) made people realize that they can blend the real and virtual worlds while using accessible gadgets, such as their smartphones. What can we look forward to in AR trends this year? 1. More Uses of AR in Education Educators are investigating ways to teach people with AR. Students in Michigan will get …
So, you just upgraded from smartphone augmented reality apps to the Oculus Rift, and you’re excited to get immersed in the world of virtual reality. But how exactly do you do that? Here’s a quick guide to help you get started. What You Need The Oculus Rift comes with a headset, two sensors, a remote …