Since the creation of the Oculus Rift VR in 2011, virtual reality (or VR) has skyrocketed in usage and application. However, with VR on such a rapid rise, it can be easy to get confused about what it is and why it may be important to you. Today, I will go over VR, some common terms surrounding the space, and how it will be impacting the future.
Virtual reality, to put it simply, is a simulated experience for the user that allows them to feel immersed in a virtual world. Even simpler? Well here is what Chat GPT (Not sure what ChatGPT is? Click here.) had to say:
“Virtual reality is like stepping into a magical world where you can see and feel things that aren’t really there. Imagine putting on a special pair of glasses that makes you feel like you’re inside a video game or a movie. You can move around, explore, and interact with things in this imaginary world just like you would in real life. It’s like having a big adventure without ever leaving your room!”
With the help of technology which is constantly improving and evolving, virtual reality’s numerous applications are increasing and being implemented everyday. With use cases in healthcare, automotives, and architecture, as well as gaming and fitness, thrivXR’s specialty, virtual reality has become quite prolific throughout the world and is becoming more commonplace by the day.
While we already discussed what virtual reality is, there are many related terms that are easy to mix up. Below you will find a quick summary of each term and some relevant examples.
Augmented Reality (AR): Augmented reality is when you overlay virtual elements over the real world. This is different from virtual reality which replaces the world you see. A common example of augmented reality is Pokémon Go, a game that places fictional creatures on top of real world locations using your phone’s camera.
Mixed Reality (MR): Mixed reality is the combination of virtual reality and augmented reality. When you interact with virtual elements, they will affect the real world similar to how in virtual reality, interacting with virtual elements affects the virtual world. If you need help visualizing, picture putting on a headset that allows you to see your real computer and desk. However, a virtual overlay pops up and when you click on the buttons on the overlay, it allows you to interact with your computer without physical contact.
Extended Reality (XR): Extended reality is for virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality. Examples can be found right here at thrivXR. We specialize in XR equipment that provide a variety of fitness and gaming experiences.
As mentioned previously, VR is growing and absolutely here to stay. No matter what industry you are in, it is very likely that VR will become relevant to your job. Additionally, VR will become more and more prevalent in our personal lives. At thrivXR, we are on the cutting edge of extended reality fitness experiences and while we may be the first, we won’t be the last. If you are interested in learning more, click to see our membership options or to schedule your exclusive membership tour.
By Jacob Smith
