Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated environment that immerses users in simulated real-world scenes and objects, creating the sensation of being fully present in a different setting. This experience is typically facilitated through a VR headset, helmet, or other equipment. VR technology allows users to learn complex tasks, such as performing surgeries, engage in immersive video games, and improve sports training to enhance performance. Although VR seems like a futuristic concept, its origins trace back further than one might expect.

One of the earliest virtual reality devices was the Sensorama, developed in the 1950s. This machine featured an integrated seat that played 3D movies, emitted scents, and created vibrations to enrich the sensory experience. Since then, advancements in software and technology have gradually evolved VR interface design and devices.

The global VR market was valued at USD 21.3 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 200.3 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.3% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2031.

Virtual field trips: window to the world

One of the most exciting uses of VR in education is virtual field trips. VR can take students to places or historical times they are unlikely to visit in real life, from ancient landmarks to far-away planets. This sort of immersion eliminates traveling time, hassle, and related expenses. It brings students face-to-face with things they might have otherwise needed a picture in a book to conceive. While it doesn't provide a completely genuine experience, it still provides an infinitely more interactive alternative to those flat images that can be seen in old books.

VR promises leaps and bounds in the field of health care due to the revolution it is bringing in the training of medical facilities. It will help in providing an all-around risk-free environment to health professionals where they would adapt to complex procedures and surgeries, thus gaining masterly skills way ahead of dealing with a real human. VR also has promising prospects related to mental health, both for the purpose of training and therapeutics.

A little creativity can lead to some interesting applications if we think beyond the basic realm of education and training. Here are a few interesting ones:

That is the case also in the automotive sector, but beyond the design and prototyping process; that also includes safety training, ways to engage customers, and in developing new products. In the future, maybe engineers will be able to test drive virtual prototypes in various simulated environments. This is going to reduce the number of physical prototypes required in the design process, therefore increasing its speed.

It can simulate dangerous driving environments and accidents, providing students with much-needed practice for being inside an actual car. Toyota's advertisement, for instance, uses Oculus headsets to experience the perils associated with distracted driving. VR could also transform the car-buying process as customers will be able to tailor and explore the vehicle they want to buy in a virtual world.

It can also do a lot more in real estate and architecture. Simulations can be created for phases of construction and safety procedures to enhance learning and the development of skills. In the future, architects could use VR to lead clients through virtual models of constructions, making real-time modifications based on feedback, thus fast-tracking design iterations and approvals.

It is also bridging skills gaps in the manufacturing sector, enhancing safety and training. With technologies such as Industry 4.0 and digital twins integrated with VR, manufacturers get real-time insights into the production process, enabling simulation and refinement of design prototypes, therefore, reducing time and cost of production.

It finds widespread use in the fields of transportation and airport design. Lufthansa's use of VR technology in pilot training prevails at a realistic simulation in preparing pilots for varied flight scenarios without an actual flying. Possible future uses for this technology would include virtual traffic systems where urban planning can be optimized and immersive training for public transport operators to ensure safety and efficiency.

While the bulk of VR appears to be taking off with the gaming industry, the implications for the wider entertainment space are massive. For instance, Oculus Cinema and similar VR platforms can clearly imagine a time when film, and live sports will see audiences virtually immersed in their favorite media. Further down the road, it might display the audiences partaking in a live performance or engaging with the setting and the performers—a redefinition of even the live entertainment concept in a package of personalized interactions.

Immersive technologies are changing online shopping and in-store experiences. Top Shop, IKEA, Walmart, and Sephora are just a few retailers who have already started experimenting with virtual and augmented reality to enhance customer experience. Consumers can use VR for the view of a product in 3D; try before buying at the same time, it allows shopping from home using virtual payment gateways.

Soon, VR will be implemented in museums to give users very special experiences. For example, Philadelphia's Franklin Institute launched a VR experience in 2016 that permitted users to explore the ocean depths, the cosmos, and the human body. Other museums have since followed with virtual experiences that include driving a Ford GT40, traveling through history in time, and viewing evolution in 3D.

Global military organizations are using VR to simulate combat situations and offer soldiers an excellent, much safer, costlier method of training. They can create simulations of real-life scenarios on the battlefield, practice medical treatments, parachute from planes, and conduct fighter jets in these environments. Besides, VR is being used in the rehabilitation of soldiers with PTSD and also for allowing health providers to experience and understand how to treat psychological conditions.

Virtual Reality (VR), initially driven by advancements in AI and rooted in gaming, is rapidly evolving and expanding its influence into various industries, including education and healthcare. This shift is becoming more apparent as VR starts to be utilized for commercial purposes, providing immersive and interactive experiences for professional training, educational purposes, and patient care. The upcoming introduction of Wi-Fi 7 is expected to significantly accelerate this growth. With its increased bandwidth and reduced latency, Wi-Fi 7 will facilitate more sophisticated and responsive VR applications, especially in commercial environments. As Wi-Fi 7 becomes widespread, VR is likely to see further development and integration in these sectors, enhancing educational, training, and healthcare experiences through cutting-edge immersive technology.