Virtual Reality (VR) is expected to experience some of the highest industry growth in the coming years. It is going to be the digital transformation of the century because of its wide range of applications and uses. As of today, it is mostly known for its relevance in the gaming industry, but there are more areas such as healthcare, education, and business in which it will play a crucial role.
These are the highlights of virtual reality in the future
VR holds fascinating possibilities across many fields. Out of the many VR futures that you may have witnessed around you (or in science fiction movies), here are the top 3 applications – happening in real time.
Upgraded Software and Hardware
As more dollars are poured into R&D, there will be improvements in the software and hardware for VR. The original VR headsets were quite bulky and uncomfortable to use. Nowadays, the design has become sleeker and more lightweight to better accommodate the user. In the future, we can expect a heavier focus on ergonomics. This will reduce any fatigue or strain on the eyesight of the user.
Also, the advancements in motion tracking and haptic feedback technology will provide a new level of realism. Along with this, all of these will contribute to the affordability and accessibility of VR for the masses.
VR in Healthcare
VR technology is already being used for training purposes by healthcare professionals. It is being used for rehabilitation and phobia-related issues by helping patients in a more comfortable environment. Progress is being made to teach future doctors and nurses about human anatomy through a cadaver-less teaching method. Beyond this, a VR training program is being developed to allow physicians to experience life from different angles. This could be as the elderly or as a kid again to understand the situation from their perspective.
VR in Education
While the two decades of this century have witnessed immense technological bloom, the education sector has remained largely static since the 19th century. The pandemic led many startups to work on bringing about the next change through VR. In terms of applications, the pedagogy can incorporate a ‘learning through experience’ approach. Students can experience the beauty of the shining marble monument, the Taj Mahal, without leaving their classrooms.
It will make the classroom experience safer by allowing students to use harmful lab chemicals or dangerous machinery without any risk. Distance education will be simplified, with students learning at their own pace with the same teachers, irrespective of geographical barriers. This is especially helpful for those with learning difficulties or who are differently abled.
VR in Work and Business
Another sector hit by the pandemic was the office sector. As a result, firms started investing heavily in VR for its capabilities in training, communications, and work optimization capacity. Companies are working on the final goal of having “dematerialized offices”, which can remove the requirement of any physical office space by replacing them with a virtual office. This would be based on the concept of the “Internet of Senses”, something that the Swedish communication giant Ericcson is working on, which can mimic human taste, smell, and touch.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for VR
Virtual Reality will be assimilated into all walks of life in (hopefully) the near future. They present many positives that will revolutionize the fields of healthcare, education, business, and many more. Each is a critical aspect of human life requiring immense attention. But VR is the key to solving many challenges in those fields because it is the science fiction reality of our lifetime.
