We have come to a point in human development where virtual reality has become a common thing. It is, one of the most prominent technologies, designed to offer the users a better digital experience of whatever they want. Now, the geographical barriers are no longer limitations for you to experience something far away. You can find yourself on the moon in a second by putting on your VR device. Virtual reality is a 3 dimension computer universe that you can access with the proper technology. A visual machine is attached to the computer creating the virtual universe. When you put on the VR device, you feel like you have been transported to another world. But in reality, you are right where you were. What you see in front of you with the visual machine has been created by the computer. It is highly realistic and with audio effects, it’s much more convincing.
It is mostly used in the gaming and entertainment industry. Developers are coming with newer technologies every day to bring improvement in the global VR industry. Here are the widely used types of VR technologies used today:
1. Semi-immersive virtual technology
It is the oldest form of virtual reality technology. Generally, there is a big computer screen with a sound system and stimulating environment like moving seats, and more. These are now used for flight simulations or other educational purposes. The person is not fully immersed in the made-up reality, but partially. That is why it is called semi-really.
2. Complete immersive reality
It is a technological wonder. It has come extremely close to give the users a flawless virtual reality experience. You get a 360 degree VR experience from the convenience of your home. You should have a highly powerful computer to achieve it. The computer should be able to take care of sound, sight, and all the other sensors, giving you a seamless experience. You just need to wear a head-mounted display or HMD and sensory gloves to get the complete feel. It is an amazing experience.
3. Augmented reality
Though augmented reality does not offer full immersion into the virtual reality world, it is still an amazing way to experience what you are seeing. With AR people can enjoy 3D images of historical places, landmarks, buildings, or even products online. You can have fun projecting different 3D images wherever you want through your smartphone.
4. Mixed reality
Mixed reality or MR blends virtual reality and real elements. While AR can only be experienced through your computer or smartphone screen, MR can be projected in a physical environment. Using this technology you can project 3D holograms wherever you want and interact with them as well. They have been used in concerts to bring back legendary musicians from the past and entertain the audience. They are used to create tours and demonstrations for students as well.
5. Collaborative virtual reality
In collaborative VR people from different locations come together sharing their thoughts and views while remaining at their own places. Video conferencing programs fall under this type of VR. It is extremely convenient for people living far away from each other. Though experts say it will make people more disengaged from society, it is efficient at getting the work done saving time and money.
6. Medical virtual reality
The medical world has become highly advanced and it can benefit a lot by adding virtual reality to its list. VR can provide good training for doctors, nurses, and other medical staff who need to be flawlessly precise at what they do. It can provide a better understanding of human anatomy to medical students as well.