The world of virtual reality can be summed up into two simple words: ever-evolving. Due to recent innovation and technological advances, virtual and augmented reality has taken over and is here to stay for the long haul. Learn about 5 Virtual Reality Facts You Need to Know.
The growing popularity of VR poses a question: “How much do I actually know about virtual reality?”
Fear not, we are here to get you up to speed! Grab your reading glasses and prepare to be enlightened.
Here are five facts about virtual reality that will make you an industry expert in no time:
1. The first VR headset was created by Morton Heilig in the 1960’s and was originally named the ‘Telesphere Mask’
In 1962, American cinematographer Morton Heiling invented the ‘Telesphere Mask’. Otherwise known as the Sensorama. This device would come to be known as one of the first and earliest known examples of multi-sensory, immersive VR technology. Fact via ioi.London.
As the Sensorama was quite advanced for its time, as it gave the player an experience of motorcycling throughout the streets of Brooklyn. Players were also given a satisfying VR experience. Due to feeling wind in their face, vibrations from the motorcycle seat, and an engaging 3D view of Brooklyn. (Are your minds blown yet? Ours surely are!)
2. VR was marketed around 5.1 million in 2017 and is expected to be worth around 20.9 million in 2025.
This dramatic stat from Tech Jury shows this jump in revenue is likely caused by the constant technological advancements in the industry. Factors such as higher internet speeds, access to hardware, and an increase in willing consumers contribute to such innovation as well. Due to these figures, we can predict that the market for virtual and augmented reality will continue to skyrocket at a steady pace year after year. These are the statistics we love to see! Here at Waysun, we are excited to be a part of the VR market with our Meta Quest 2 game: Olly Power Play.
3. The number of VR users in the U.S. has increased from 22.5 million in 2017 to 50.2 million in 2020
The always upgrading industry attracts more and more users every year. According to zippia.com, the VR market is projected to reach 65.9 million users by 2023. (That’s a lot of headsets!)
With this in mind, 99Firms also reported that 35% of these individuals that use VR are between 24 to 35 years old. We’re thrilled to see the industry continue to escalate, as more individuals become familiar with the world of virtual reality.
4. 91% of business organizations are already using or are planning to use VR.
Business organizations from all sectors have adapted VR technology in their workplace. Whether it is for training purposes, or just some office fun, virtual reality has surely weaved its way into the professional world.
Here’s another fun fact for you from Strivr.com: VR training reduces the risk in the workplace by 43%. This accounts for safer work environments and happier employees. With this in mind, we have to ask: are you willing to incorporate virtual reality technology in your office?
5. VR technology can benefit mental health purposes.
Were you aware that VR has also made its way into healthcare? Forbes.com reported that virtual reality technology can be used to treat disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. The user who undergoes such therapy is presented with “real-life” virtual experiences that help them with mental health concerns or ease chronic disorders.
Furthermore, virtual reality has also provided benefits to the learning process. As the technology has been known to improve and even speed up learning abilities in general! (At this point, is there anything VR can’t do?)
Due to these facts, it is evident that virtual reality is no stranger to technology. Its success will only continue to multiply and spread across different sectors. Now that you’re a VR expert, we can bet you’re ready to pick up a headset and explore all of the benefits it has to offer!
