Virtual Reality Is Here

Remember movies like 'The Matrix' and 'Inception'? Well, those were all about VR, Virtual Reality.

Virtual Reality, also known as immersive multimedia IM or computer-stimulated reality CSR is a computer technology that replicates an environment, real or imagined and simulates a users physical presence and environment in a way that allows the user to interact within it. VR artificially creates sensory experiences which can include sight touch hearing and smell. Its displayed either on a computer screen or with a special virtual reality headset VRH. Some simulations include additional sensory information and focus on real sound through speakers or headphones while some advanced systems even include tactile information (called force feedback in gaming). VR can provide remote communication environments which simulate virtual presence of users with use of concepts like tele-presence and tele-existence or VA virtual artifact through the use of standard input devices like a keyboard and mouse or multimodal devices like wired gloves or omni-directional treadmills.

Sounds like a loooot of tech right?

VR can be used in education to promote learning and boost online and distance learning. In entertainment VR can create otherwise impossible special effects and simulations in movies, concerts, gaming. VR can help provide risk fress and more extensive combat training for the military and help in actual war situations. In medicine it can be used to create training programs to prep medical students for real life surgery situations. In business it can boost networking, remote meetings and reduce the need for travel for business. In the motor industry it can provide risk free test driving. In the prpoerty industry it can help provide site inspections without the need for physical presence. VR can allow for virtual fitting in the wedding and fashion industry. The possibilities are endless!

Many world class brands are already using VR to boost their customer experience. The NBA shows 360-degree game footage. The Marriot Hotels loans headsets to guests so they can tour exotic detinations. ford uses VR to help design its vehicls interiors. Some experts have predicted that by 2020 VR will help companies boost their revenues to the tune billions. Given that very few people have VR gadgets today this may seem a bit farfetched. However, if one looks at the amount of activity and funding in the VR subsector currently, the numer of industries coming on board to explore the possibiities with VR and the level of excitement VR is generating with potential customers, perhaps its not so far-fetched.

VR is very expensive to create and purchase right now but just like with other technology related things the cost is expected to drop exponentially as patronage and competition grows.

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