Immersive virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated simulation of an artificial environment that can be observed using head-mounted displays. The virtual environment could be realistic, stylized, or both. The user is able to interact by moving their head or hands, which is tracked using the head-mounted displays.
The VR experience can be completely immersive, which means the user is in an imaginary world and is unable to see the physical world around them. Or it can be non-immersive, in which the user can have limited interaction with the simulated environment such as standard console video games. Fully immersive VR uses an eye-mounted display that shows distinct images to each eye. This creates a stereoscopic three-dimensional effect with input tracking to establish an experience that feels real.
The most frequent use of VR is for training and rehearsal simulations. This can be part-task procedural training (such as ‘buttonology’ where surgeons are trained to push a button to perform certain tasks) or full motion simulations which train law enforcement, military, or pilots in scenarios that are risky to practice on real equipment and ordinance.
Immersive VR technology is extremely powerful. It’s important to keep in mind that, although it’s typically employed in games and entertainment (the most recent Fortnite game grossed 1,25 billion dollars for Epic) but its potential goes beyond just soaring through space in an XWing flight or shooting criminals from the dumpster. VR is also becoming more popular in the business and industry and in particular, where the ability to test products or ideas in a safe and safe manner can be beneficial.