Introduction to In-Flight VR
I’ve been testing VR headsets for years, but a recent trip from London to Miami was the primary time I took one with me on a flight. Unfortunately, my experience was not entirely positive, and I probably won’t take one with me again until some key issues are addressed.
The Pre-Flight Struggle
My troubles began before we took off, after I tried to search out suitable content to download for the flight. I used to be surprised to search out no ‘flight-approved’ category in Meta’s app store, making it difficult to search out software recommendations. Searching for movie downloads was also a challenge, and I used to be disillusioned to find that the Quest supports streaming platforms like Netflix, but only in a browser-based format that does not allow offline downloads.
In-Flight Entertainment
After eventually sourcing a digital copy of Avengers: Endgame in 3D, I donned my Meta Quest 3 and commenced watching. The experience was superb, with the Meta TV app in mixed-reality mode allowing me to dim my surroundings and enlarge the screen to feel like I used to be in my very own private movie theatre. However, my entertainment selection was limited, and I needed to take care of battery life concerns and the bulkiness of the headset.
Problems with VR on a Flight
My biggest concerns with using a VR headset on a flight were software selection, battery life, and bag space. The Quest 3’s battery life was a major issue, with one hour of mixed-reality use consuming almost 50% of the battery. The bulkiness of the headset and controllers also made it difficult to store in my carry-on bag. Additionally, the chance of annoying nearby passengers with my arm movements was a priority, especially in a tightly packed economy seat.
Ideal Scenarios for In-Flight VR
Despite the problems, I imagine that VR headsets may very well be ideal for shorter flights (under 4 hours) where baggage space is restricted. In these scenarios, the advantages of VR entertainment could outweigh the drawbacks. However, for longer flights, the battery life and storage concerns make it less practical.
Improving the In-Flight VR Experience
To make VR headsets more viable for in-flight entertainment, manufacturers could implement more subtle motion controls, increase the built-in battery life, and simplify the strategy of finding and downloading movies. The big-screen movie experience, especially with 3D movies, is really implausible, and improving this aspect of VR could make it a game-changer for in-flight entertainment.
Conclusion
While my experience with using a VR headset on a flight was not entirely positive, I can see a future where it becomes my go-to travel gadget. With some key improvements, VR headsets could revolutionize in-flight entertainment, providing a novel and immersive experience for passengers. For now, nonetheless, I’ll be leaving my Meta headset at home and choosing my AR glasses as an alternative.
