Description: Social Virtual Reality refers to social interactions that occur in a virtual reality environment, where users can communicate, collaborate, and share experiences in an immersive three-dimensional space. This concept is based on the creation of avatars, which are digital representations of users, allowing real-time interaction with other participants. Social virtual reality platforms offer various tools for communication, such as voice chat, gestures, and facial expressions, enriching the social experience. As technology advances, these environments become increasingly realistic and accessible, allowing people to connect regardless of their geographical location. The relevance of Social Virtual Reality lies in its ability to create virtual communities, facilitate collaborative work, and offer new forms of entertainment and socialization, transforming the way people interact in the digital world.
History: The concept of virtual reality began to take shape in the 1960s, but it was in the 1990s that it gained popularity with the arrival of devices like virtual reality headsets. In 1992, the term ‘metaverse’ was coined by Neal Stephenson in his novel ‘Snow Crash’, describing a virtual space where people interact through avatars. Over the years, technology has evolved, and in the 2010s, with the rise of devices like Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, Social Virtual Reality began to gain traction, allowing for more immersive and social experiences.
Uses: Social Virtual Reality is used in various applications, including video games, online education platforms, work meetings, and social events. These applications allow users to interact in virtual environments, facilitating collaboration and distance learning. Additionally, it is employed in psychological therapies and rehabilitation, where patients can interact in a controlled environment.
Examples: Examples of Social Virtual Reality include platforms like VRChat, where users can create and explore virtual worlds, and AltspaceVR, which offers live events and social gatherings. They are also used in educational environments like Engage, which allows students to attend classes in a virtual classroom.
