Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR): The Future of Immersive Tech
VR (Virtual Reality) – Creates a completely digital world. Gaming, training, and movies can be experienced by wearing a headset. AR (Augmented Reality) – Adds digital elements (images, information) to the real world. Example: Pokémon GO, Snapchat filters.
How does Virtual Reality work?
Virtual reality (VR) is a computerized 3D world in which a VR headset allows you to experience the computer-generated world and interact with objects there.
VR headset (Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, PlayStation VR) – Uses a display, sensors, and head tracking system to help you interact with objects in the world.
Spatial audio – Directional sound (3D sound) enhances the sense of reality.
Uses of Virtual Reality:
Some of the major uses of virtual reality today in various fields are:
- Entertainment: Provides a new experience in video games, movies, and theme parks.
- Education: Virtual reality can be used to visit historical sites and practice surgery.
- Healthcare: Virtual reality is useful for patient rehabilitation and mental health treatment.
- Engineering and architecture: It is used to do designs and provide virtual tours of buildings.
- Military training: Virtual reality is used to train soldiers.
- Real estate: Can be used to show buyers a property by giving a virtual tour.
Virtual reality is available in many places today. Some of the most important ones are given below:
- Virtual Reality Arcades: Here you can enjoy virtual reality games and experiences for a fee.
- Theme Parks: There are virtual reality rides and attractions.
- Movie Theaters: Some movie theaters offer virtual reality experiences.
- Electronics Stores: Here you can buy virtual reality headsets and accessories. Some stores may also have a demo experience facility. Some brands showcase their products in virtual reality.
Some schools and colleges have set up virtual reality labs for learning purposes. Some hospitals and clinics use virtual reality as part of treatment. - Online Stores: Virtual reality headsets and devices are available for purchase on online shopping websites like Amazon and Flipkart.
- VR Platforms: There are online platforms that provide various virtual worlds, games, and applications (for example, SteamVR, Oculus Store).
How is Virtual Reality available?
1. VR Headsets (Devices)
High-end VR:
Meta Quest 3 (standalone, wireless)
Valve Index (connects to PC)
PlayStation VR2 (for PS5)
Budget-friendly VR:
Meta Quest 2 (good performance at a low price)
PICO 4 (another standalone option)
Mobile VR:
Google Cardboard (to experience VR using a regular smartphone)
2. VR Apps & Games
VR Gaming:
Half-Life: Alyx, Beat Saber, Superhot VR
VR Social/Meeting Platforms:
Horizon Worlds (Meta), VRChat
Education & Training:
Google Expeditions (VR Journeys), Surgical Simulators
3. Where can I download VR content?
Meta Quest Store (for Oculus users)
SteamVR (for PC VR games)
PlayStation Store (PSVR2 games)
SideQuest (unofficial VR apps)
VR is a powerful technology that is revolutionizing areas such as gaming, education, training, and entertainment. Cheaper and more advanced VR technology may become available in the future.