Virtual Reality is a fad to some while others perceives it
as a game-changer. Many analysts believe that Virtual Reality will become a
mainstream phenomenon due to the present level of consumer interest,
technology, and timing.
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Virtual Reality has gained favor amongst consumers due to
attributes such as optical transmission, user-experience, social integration,
interactivity and the ability to garner feedback. Let us examine the impact
that virtual reality has in some key sectors.
Shopping Experiences
While online shopping provides consumers with the advantage
of having products delivered to their doorsteps, it does not allow them the
experience of going to a store and selecting items. Virtual reality is set to
change this aspect. Virtual reality is changing the way people shop, and in
2016, Alibaba launched Buy+. This virtual reality headset allows customers to
wander the store and pick-out products virtually. According
to Vice, 30,000 Buy+ headsets had been sold within an hour of its launch.
Further, companies such as Amazon and Ikea are creating virtual shopping
platforms to increase revenues.
Education
Education is a sector that has readily accepted virtual
reality platforms. Through virtual reality, students can interact with each
other as significant groups within 3-D environments. Further, it allows
students to interact with objects and experience concepts such as the solar
system enabling a better understanding of abstract notions. According to the
Telegraph, the launch of the Google cardboard headset and Oculus Rift has made
this technology accessible to schools. Virtual reality is still nascent and may
be cost-prohibitive for some institutions. However, educators are increasingly
adopting virtual reality in a bid to enable students from learning to feeling
the content.
Casino
Online casino sites are taking over from their land based cousins, however, even though
players like the convenience of online they like the appeal of brick and
mortar. When it comes to the application of Virtual Reality the casino industry
was one of the early adapters. Many online casino’s now offer live casino with
the ability to play using VR. For the moment VR is more prevalent for roulette,
card games and table games but it will eventually make its way to slots and
other casino classics.
Advertising
Advertising companies are increasingly exploring avenues to
reach out to consumers using virtual reality. Recently, Mountain Dew initiated
a promotional event called “Dew
VR Snow” wherein users owning the Samsung Gear VR could heli-ski in Utah
with professional snowboarders virtually. The campaign was immensely successful
with millions of views for the video. While advertising is incorporating
various facets of virtual reality, it is treading a fine line. Virtual reality
provides an immersive experience for viewers which may be hindered by
commercials. Advertising using virtual reality is evolving, and it will find
its "sweet-spot" with this new technology in time.
Films
Movie makers in Hollywood are using virtual reality in film
production. Noted film-makers such as Ridley Scott, Steven Spielberg, etc. are
relying on virtual reality for their upcoming projects. At film festivals such
as Sundance and Tribeca, a host of virtual reality-based short films have
already been screened. The use of this technology provides an engaging
experience for moviegoers. However, it takes control out of the director's
hands. The use of virtual reality in movies is a new phenomenon, and it needs
to be seen how effective it will be in this sector.
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