Introduction to Emerging Technologies
The way forward for technology is rapidly advancing, with significant developments in virtual reality (VR) and ambient computing. These technologies have been gaining mainstream attention, particularly with the launch of the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, in addition to the rise of smartphone-based VR technology like Google Cardboard. Ambient computing, which involves making technology pay obsessive attention to users, serving them, and helping them make good decisions, can be becoming increasingly prevalent.
Virtual Reality (VR)
High-End VR
The Oculus Rift and HTC Vive are two high-end VR devices which have been making waves within the tech world. Facebook invested $2 billion within the Oculus Rift, with founder Mark Zuckerberg believing that immersive experiences might be the longer term of technology. The Oculus Rift and HTC Vive require significant PC hardware to support them, with prices starting at $599 and $799, respectively.
Low-End VR
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Google Cardboard offers a low-cost VR experience, with a $15 headset that straps a smartphone to your head for a 360-degree experience.
Future of VR
Augmented reality (AR) can be on the horizon, creating realistic holograms superimposed in your field of regard. The HP Zvr 23.6-inch Virtual Reality Display is a industrial 3D display that delivers a virtual-holographic 3D image, allowing users to see every angle and curve in lifelike detail. Other firms, comparable to Microsoft and Google, are also investing in AR technology, with the Microsoft Hololens and Google’s Magic Leap being two notable examples.
Should Your Business Invest in VR?
Probably, either now or in the longer term. Here are a couple of things to contemplate:
- Try before you purchase: VR can allow customers to take a virtual "test drive" of your product, saving you money on logistics and production costs.
- Research: VR can allow users to check out latest products before they’re manufactured, reducing the necessity for prototypes.
- Employee training: Interactive VR training may be more practical than traditional manual or instructor-led training.
- Virtual offices: In the longer term, VR could enable employees to interact with colleagues remotely, potentially saving on office space costs.
Ambient Computing
What is Ambient Computing?
Ambient computing involves using sensors and machines in your environment to see, understand, and react to your needs without you having to ask first. This technology is throughout us, from ambient lighting to ambient music, and is designed to reinforce our mood and activities.
Ambient Computing Technology
There are many technologies that contribute to ambient computing, including:
- Sensors that monitor sound, motion, temperature, location, and more.
- Interconnected devices that use these sensors and other monitoring tools to speak with you and one another.
- Ambient services that use all the above to research data and make complex events occur.
Should Your Business Invest in Ambient Computing?
In small ways, you almost certainly have already got. Here are some things to contemplate:
- Stay focused: Determine what business outcomes an ambient system can contribute to and think about your goal.
- Go step-by-step: Break down each step of the business process you would like to develop or optimize to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Put customers first: Consider how customers will initially react and interact with these latest systems and prioritize their experience.
- Get disruptive: Think about ways you possibly can disrupt your industry with ambient tech and consider partnering with other firms to create latest networks.
- Get office smart: Consider adding "smart" features to your office to make employees more comfortable and productive.
Conclusion
The way forward for technology is rapidly advancing, with significant developments in virtual reality and ambient computing. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize the way in which we do business, from enhancing customer experiences to improving worker productivity. By considering the potential advantages and applications of VR and ambient computing, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and prepare for a future where technology is increasingly integrated into our every day lives.
