VR is getting plenty of hype. Which system should you go for, what do you need to buy, and what should you play?

Virtual reality (VR) technology is becoming a more vital tool in education, science, business, manufacturing, and other fields, in addition to entertainment. Experts will teach you the fundamentals as well as the most recent developments in virtual reality.

‍

What Is Virtual Reality?

Virtual reality is the creation of virtual worlds using computer technologies. Virtual reality immerses users in a three-dimensional environment. Users are immersed in 3D environments and interact with them rather than observing a screen in front of them.

The simulation of all five human senses converts a computer into a vehicle for exploring new worlds. A great VR experience is only limited by computational power and content availability.

‍

"VR and AR are in a period of invention right now," according to Sam Trudgian, a VR developer at Napster. Wireless headsets are becoming smaller, quicker, and more convenient.

‍

Three Types of Virtual Reality

All three types of VR, from non-immersive, semi-immersive, full immersive or a mixture of them, are also referred to as extended reality (XR). Three types of virtual reality experiences provide different levels of computer-generated simulation.

‍

Read more of our VR review to find out more about its core features and why you should give it a try.

‍

The three main VR categories are the following:

Non-Immersive Virtual Reality: This category is often overlooked as VR simply because it’s so common. Non-immersive VR technology features a computer-generated virtual environment where the user simultaneously remains aware and controlled by their physical environment. Video games are a prime example of non-immersive VR.

Semi-Immersive Virtual Reality: This type of VR provides an experience partially based in a virtual environment. This type of VR makes sense for educational and training purposes with graphical computing and large projector systems, such as flight simulators for pilot trainees.

Fully Immersive Virtual Reality: Right now, there are no completely immersive VR technologies, but advances are so swift that they may be right around the corner. This type of VR generates the most realistic simulation experience, from sight to sound to sometimes even olfactory sensations. Car racing games are an example of immersive virtual reality that gives the user the sensation of speed and driving skills. Developed for gaming and other entertainment purposes, VR use in other sectors is increasing.

The definition of virtual technology contains certain common traits. Not only are they immersive, but they're also computer-generated, multidimensional, and interactive.

‍

How Does Virtual Reality Technology Work?

Virtual reality combines technology and software to create immersive experiences that deceive the eye and brain. Sound, touch, smell, and heat intensity are all supported by hardware, while software renders the virtual world.

‍

Eye and Brain Function and the 3D VR Experience

The production of immersive experiences is modeled after how the eye and brain create pictures. Because human eyes are roughly three inches apart, they generate two somewhat distinct perspectives. The brain combines those perspectives to form a stereoscopic display or experience of depth.

With a pair of exact photos from two separate views, VR apps may recreate that phenomena. Instead of a single image filling the full screen, it displays two identical images, one for each eye. The viewer's brain is tricked into believing there is a sense of depth and accepting the illusion of a multi-dimensional image thanks to VR technology.

‍

What Technology Does Virtual Reality Use?

VR technology commonly consists of headsets and accessories such as controllers and motion trackers. Driven by proprietary downloadable apps or web-based VR, the technology is accessible via a web browser.

‍

What Hardware Does Virtual Reality Use?

Virtual reality hardware includes sensory accessories such as controllers, as well as headsets, hand trackers, treadmills and, for creators, 3D cameras.

‍

VR Headsets

A VR headset is a head-mounted device, such as goggles. A VR headset is a visual screen or display. Headsets often include state-of-the-art sound, eye or head motion-tracking sensors or cameras.

‍

There are three main types of headsets:

PC-Based VR Headsets: PC headsets tend to be the highest-priced devices because they offer the most immersive experiences. These headsets are usually cable-tethered from the headset and powered by external hardware. The dedicated display, built-in motion sensors and an external camera tracker offer high-quality sound and image and head tracking for greater realism.

Standalone VR Headsets: All-in-one or standalone VR headsets are wireless, integrated pieces of hardware, such as tablets or phones. Wireless VR headsets are not always standalone. Some systems transmit information wirelessly from consoles or PCs in proximity, and others use wired packs carried in a pocket or clipped to clothing.

Mobile Headsets: These shell devices use lenses that cover a smartphone. The lenses separate the screen to create a stereoscopic image that transforms a smartphone into a VR device. Mobile headsets are relatively inexpensive. Wires are not needed because the phone does the processing. Phones don’t offer the best visual experiences and are underpowered by game console- or PC-based VR. They provide no positional tracking. The generated environment displays from a single point, and it is not possible to look around objects in a scene.

‍

VR Accessories

VR accessories are hardware products that facilitate VR technology. New devices are always in development to improve the immersive experience. Today’s accessories include the 3D mouse, optical trackers, wired gloves, motion controllers, bodysuits, treadmills, and even smelling devices.

‍

These are some of the accessories used today in VR:

3D Mouse: A 3D mouse is a control and pointing device designed for movement in virtual 3D spaces. 3D mice employ several methods to control 3D movement and 2D pointing, including accelerometers, multi-axis sensors, IR sensors and lights.

Optical Trackers: Visual devices monitors the user’s position. The most common method for VR systems is to use one or multiple fixed video cameras to follow the tracked object or person.

Wired Gloves: This type of device, worn on the hands, is also known as cyber gloves or data gloves. Various sensor technologies capture physical movement data. Like an inertial or magnetic tracking device, a motion tracker attaches to capture the glove’s rotation and global position data. The glove software interprets movement. High-end versions provide haptic feedback or tactile stimulation, allowing a wired glove to be an output device.

Motion Controllers: These accessories allow users to act in mixed reality. Controllers allow for fine-grained interaction with digital objects because they have a precise position in space.

Omnidirectional Treadmills (ODTs): This accessory machine gives users the ability to move in any direction physically. ODTs allow users to move freely for a fully immersive experience in VR environments.

Smelling Devices: Smell devices are one of the newer accessories in the VR world. Vaqso, a Tokyo-based company, offers a headset attachment that emits odors to convey the size and shape of a candy bar. The fan-equipped device holds several different smells that can change intensity based on the screen action.

‍

Benefits of Virtual Reality

VR benefits many industries with its user engagement. VR is an excellent vehicle for training, conferencing, convenience, and communication.

‍

Here are some of the benefits of VR:

Practical Training: VR is a safe way to simulate dangerous situations for training purposes. Firefighters, pilots, astronauts and police can learn in a controlled environment before going into the field. Immersive experience narrows timeframes so trainees can more quickly become professionals.

Engagement and Connection: VR is an engaging and entertaining experience for its users.

Convenient Conferences: Virtual meetings save time and money, yet help maintain a sense of collegiality.

“Tryout” Capability: Shoppers’s remorse may become a thing of the past with VR. You can use virtual reality to furnish your home, test-drive a car or try on wedding bands without leaving home.

‍

Read more of our VR HTC Vive review to find out more about its core features and why you should give it a try.

‍

What do you need to buy

The most important piece of a virtual reality kit is the headset, a device like a thick pair of goggles that goes over your eyes. The more expensive, higher quality headsets need to be connected to a computer to run apps and games, while some cheaper ones use a cellphone clipped to the front of the headset.

All headsets need to be used alongside a good quality pair of headphones, and there are other optional accessories from hand controllers to treadmills that are all designed to enhance your simulated experience of being in another world. Hand controllers translate your real-world gestures into whatever game or application you’re using, although standard gaming joypads can also be used.

VR devices have their own app stores, similar to smartphone app stores, where you can browse and download games and apps. Some of these stores are accessed using the device itself, while others – the VR section of the Steam digital games store, for example – can be browsed on your computer.

‍

Major Players in Virtual Reality and Latest Entries: Oculus, HTC, Sony and Valve

VR is always improving due to technology refinements, and the latest “category killers” change rapidly. Top-of-the-pack players include ongoing favorites from Oculus, HTC, Sony and Valve.

‍

VIRTUAL COMFORT

While most people focus on the virtual reality features of VR headsets, at the end of the day, they’re still headsets, which means you’ll need to find one that fits your head comfortably.

‍

One of the key factors in VR headset comfort is the headset strap material.

Fabric straps are generally more elastic, and typically more comfortable overall. However, fabric straps will absorb sweat over time and can be a challenge to clean.

Plastic, rubberized straps are more durable and simple to clean. Many VR headsets with plastic straps have extra comfort features, like padding near the forehead area.

‍

Read more of our VR Oculus review to find out more about its core features and why you should give it a try.

‍

Before buying a VR headset, consider these tips:

If you’re showing virtual reality to a friend or loved one, give them plenty of physical space if it’s their first time. Most first-time users move around quite a bit as they get used to VR, so keep anything fragile out of their path.

Most VR headsets include one or more hand-held controllers for navigating virtual environments. Before starting a VR session, learn what each button on the controller does.

Virtual reality sickness can be very real: some people get symptoms of motion sickness while using VR headsets, even when there is no motion. If you experience any of these symptoms while using a VR headset, discontinue use immediately and consult a physician.

Some wireless VR headset phone units are meant to work only with specific smartphone models. Before buying a wireless VR headset, confirm that your phone is supported.

If your headset has any padding or soft surfaces, periodically clean or deodorize the soft parts to keep them smelling fresh.

Most VR headsets don’t come with protective cases. Pick up a case for all of your VR gear to keep your investment safe, and ensure enjoyment for years to come.

‍

FAQ

Q. Can I wear a VR headset if I already wear glasses?

A. Yes, although your mileage may vary, depending on the VR headset you buy. Many, but not all, virtual reality headsets allow you to adjust the viewing depth to accommodate eyeglasses. Do a few quick searches before you buy — typically, other users will post complaints or warnings if a particular pair does not work well with normal glasses.

‍

Q. Will a smartphone-enabled VR headset work with my iPhone?

A. Most, but not all, smartphone-enabled VR phone headsets work with Apple iPhones. Apple doesn’t make their own VR headset, but many apps for third-party, VR headsets are available in their App Store.

‍

Q. Where can I buy virtual reality apps?

A. Smartphone-enabled VR headsets rely on smartphone apps that can be purchased in the Google Play Store (for Android devices) or the App Store (for iOS devices). Computer and console VR headsets typically run proprietary apps and games built specifically for unique hardware. For example, the Sony Playstation VR only works with games from the Playstation Store, the Oculus Rift utilizes “experiences” from their online store, and so on.

‍

Q. Are virtual reality games multiplayer?

A. While most VR games are single player, a growing number of games include multiplayer options. Be sure to read the fine print — some multiplayer games are designed for one player to be at a computer while the other wears the VR headset, while others support multi-headset functionality.

‍

Read more of our VR review to find out more about its core features and why you should give it a try.

‍

Q. How long can I play a VR game?

A. Every user has their own threshold for how long they can keep gaming without a break. With virtual reality headsets, breaks are especially important. Regular pauses can prevent you from getting headaches or feeling dizzy, cramped, or even dehydrated. While some people claim to prefer marathon, all-day, uninterrupted VR sessions, your best bet is to prioritize your health: take breaks when you need to, drink water frequently, and get up and stretch regularly.