You Will Not Believe This Is Reality

What is Virtual Reality?

There are two types of computer realities: virtual and augmented. 

First, virtual reality is computer-generated stimulation that (re)creates an experience. Imagine putting on a headset and being transported to the depths of the ocean to observe a whale, a mere foot from you!

Next, augmented reality shows information as a layer over the real world depicting in a live camera stream. Pokémon Go! is a great example of an augmented reality video game. 

Its uses 

The uses of virtual reality and augmented reality are endless. Of course, the main attraction is entertainment. Much of the technology showcases involve a game of some kind. Another use involves using it to create virtual tours, so a user can visit an area without having to be there in real life. 

Alternatively, products or building can be built in virtual reality to see how it would look or interact with other elements. These simulations can be particularly insightful and less costly in research purposes. 

A more popular use is with drones. Some drones come with a virtual reality headset that immerses the user into the drone’s point of view. Imagine being hundreds of feet up in the air and turning your and seeing the view from that height. Pretty cool I’m sure, unless of course you’re afraid of heights.

Finally, the cost of virtual reality and augmented reality has dropped so much so that consumers can purchase these devices, though some may say that only early adopters can afford it reasonably. A PlayStation VR Kit costs £259 in the UK, €299 in Europe and $299 in the US. 

What has your VR or AR experiences been like? Did you try PlayStation VR or maybe Google’s Cardboard?