Emerging Technologies
Virtual Reality (VR)
Definition
Virtual Reality (VR) is a simulated experience that can be similar to or completely different from the real world. Applications of virtual reality include entertainment (particularly video games), education (such as medical or military training) and business (such as virtual meetings).
Why It Matters
VR provides a fully immersive digital experience by completely replacing the user's real-world surroundings. It offers powerful new possibilities for gaming, social interaction, training, and design.
Contextual Example
A user puts on a VR headset, like the Meta Quest or Valve Index, to play a game. The headset blocks out the real world and displays a 360-degree virtual world that the user can interact with.
Common Misunderstandings
- VR is a fully immersive experience, which distinguishes it from Augmented Reality (AR), which overlays information on the real world.
- Motion sickness can be a challenge for some users in VR.