Description: Innovations in virtual reality (VR) have transformed the way we interact with the digital world, creating immersive experiences that simulate real or imaginary environments. VR allows users to immerse themselves in a three-dimensional space using devices such as headsets, gloves, and controllers that track movement and interaction. These technologies have evolved significantly, from early rudimentary systems to advanced platforms that offer high-quality graphics and a more intuitive user experience. The concept of the metaverse, which refers to a shared virtual space where people can interact, work, and play, has gained relevance in this context, driving the development of applications that go beyond entertainment, encompassing areas such as education, health, and commerce. Innovations in VR not only enhance the quality of virtual experiences but also open new possibilities for collaboration and creativity in an increasingly digitized world.
History: Virtual reality has its roots in the 1960s, with the development of devices like the Sensorama and Ivan Sutherland’s virtual reality system, known as ‘the head-mounted display’. Over the years, the technology has evolved, with significant milestones such as the creation of the first graphical user interface in the 1980s and the rise of 3D video games in the 1990s. However, it was in the 2010s that VR began to gain massive popularity, thanks to advancements in hardware and software, as well as the arrival of accessible devices like Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.
Uses: Virtual reality is used in various fields, including education, where it allows for interactive simulations for hands-on learning; medicine, for training professionals and patient therapy; and entertainment, where immersive gaming experiences are created. It is also applied in architecture and design, allowing clients to visualize projects in 3D before construction.
Examples: An example of virtual reality use in education is the ‘Google Expeditions’ program, which allows students to take virtual field trips to historical and scientific locations. In medicine, the ‘Osso VR’ platform offers surgical simulations for training surgeons. In the entertainment sector, games like ‘Beat Saber’ have popularized VR in the video game industry.
