Introduction to Virtual Reality
The concept of virtual reality (VR) has been around for many years, with the primary VR experiences dating back to the Nineteen Nineties. One of the earliest VR games was Virtually VR’s Dactyl Nightmare, a Player vs. Player VR game that featured early polygon graphics. This game was showcased at a mall in Westchester, where users could pay $20 to experience the sport using a bulky circular contraption and an enormous headgear piece.
The Evolution of Virtual Reality
Fast forward 25 years, and VR technology has come a great distance. However, despite the advancements in VR technology, there are still several challenges that should be addressed. One of the most important issues with VR is the dearth of utility applications and long-term value for users. Most VR experiences are limited to games, and there are not any applications that provide real-world advantages. Additionally, the fee of VR headsets, resembling the Oculus Rift, is prohibitively expensive, with prices starting at $600.
The Cost of Virtual Reality
The high cost of VR headsets is a major barrier to adoption. Not only do users have to purchase the headset, but in addition they have to have a high-end computer to run the VR software. This can add an extra $600 to the fee, making it a major investment for consumers. Furthermore, the fee of VR headsets is comparable to the fee of a brand new laptop, making it difficult for consumers to justify the expense.
The Future of Virtual Reality
Despite the challenges facing VR, many experts consider that it has the potential to be a $20 billion market by 2020. However, this growth will rely on the event of more cost-effective and accessible VR technology. Additionally, the dearth of applications and long-term value for users must be addressed. VR headsets aren’t as portable as mobile phones, and it’s unlikely that users will carry them around with them in every single place they go.
Virtual Reality Sickness
One of the opposite significant challenges facing VR is the difficulty of virtual reality sickness. This is a phenomenon where users experience nausea and discomfort when using VR headsets. This could be a significant problem, as it may make it difficult for users to enjoy VR experiences for prolonged periods. While proponents of VR claim that this issue may be resolved with repeated use, it’s unlikely that many users will likely be willing to subjected themselves to systematic bouts of nausea with the intention to enjoy a brand new experience.
The Potential of Virtual Reality
Despite the challenges facing VR, there remains to be significant potential for the technology. When combined with third-party peripherals, resembling the Virtuix Omni, a VR treadmill, the chances for brand experiences and digital products are countless. For example, users can strap on a headset and go for a run in a virtual world where dragons are flying overhead. This style of experience is actually immersive and has the potential to vary the way in which we interact with digital products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while VR technology has come a great distance, there are still several challenges that should be addressed. The lack of utility applications, high cost, and issue of virtual reality sickness are all significant barriers to adoption. However, despite these challenges, there remains to be significant potential for VR technology. With the event of more cost-effective and accessible VR technology, and the creation of more immersive and interactive experiences, VR has the potential to vary the way in which we interact with digital products and brand experiences. As the technology continues to evolve, it would be exciting to see how VR develops and what recent experiences it would enable.
