Virtual Reality (VR) is a computer-generated environment where users experience a simulation of an alternate reality. Through VR technology, users can view real objects and environments through a headset.
When Will VR Be Worth It?
We don’t know when virtual reality will become mainstream. But we do believe that it will happen in the next few years. And we think we are already seeing some of the early signs of this happening.
The reason why we say this is because we have been following the development of VR for a while now and we can see how things are going. We also know what kind of problems people are having with VR, so we can make predictions about where VR might be headed.
VR Development
So let’s take a look at some of these early signs.
Oculus Rift
The first sign was the launch of the Oculus Rift. This is an amazing piece of technology that has revolutionized gaming. It allows you to use your hands as controllers. So if you want to play games like Doom or Skyrim then you can feel like you are there.
But it doesn’t stop there. You can also watch 3D movies in 360 degrees. Which means you can move around and look all over the place.
This is something that no one else has ever done before. And it shows just how far VR has come.
The HTC Vive
This is another great piece of hardware. And it works in much the same way as the Oculus Rift. But instead of using your own eyes to view the world, you wear a headset with two lenses on each side. These lenses send images directly into your brain.
And they allow you to walk around and interact with objects in real life.
Sony Playstation VR
Sony recently launched its PlayStation 4 console. And they included a special version of it called the PS4 Pro. This version comes with extra processing power.
It also includes a new controller called the DualShock 4C. This controller features dual touchpads. One for each hand.
These touchpads allow you to control games with your hands. They also include motion controls. So you can wave your arms around and control characters in games.
Microsoft Hololens
Microsoft recently announced its latest product. It’s called the HoloLens.
This device looks like a pair of glasses. But it isn’t a pair of glasses. Instead, it uses augmented reality.
Augmented Reality (AR) is taking information from the real world and adding it to the digital world. For example, if I show you a picture of my house, you could put that image on the wall in front of you. Then you would be able to see exactly what the room looks like.
Google Cardboard
Google recently released its version of VR. It’s called the Google Cardboard.
You simply download a free app onto your smartphone. Then you load up the app and you’re ready to go.
Samsung Gear VR
Samsung recently unveiled its version of VR called the Gear VR.
You can get this by downloading the Gear VR app onto your phone. Then you plug the phone into the Gear VR.
Nintendo Switch
Nintendo recently launched its newest console. It’s called the Nintendo Switch.
This is a hybrid system. That combines elements of home consoles and portable devices. The idea behind it is to have a device that can be used at home or on the go but also has enough power to play games for hours on end.
The Nintendo Switch is available in two versions: one with 32 GB of internal storage (and no SD card slot), and another with 64 GB of internal storage (with an SD card slot). Both models are priced at $300.
What is a VR headset?
A VR headset is a general term for many different types of devices and systems. In short, it’s a device worn on your head that lets you view and interact with a virtual world.
There are VR headsets that can be hooked up to home consoles, such as PlayStation VR that let you play PlayStation games with VR capabilities.
There are standalone VR systems like the Oculus Quest 2 which allow you to play Oculus-only games. However, these are not compatible with most PCs. You need a powerful computer to use them.
You can also download games or apps onto your smartphone using a Bluetooth headset.
Typically these headsets don’t have any hardware; instead, they rely on your smartphone for everything.
Types of VR headsets
Headset types include PC/console VR headsets, stand-alone headsets, and mobile headsets.
You don’t necessarily require a gaming console or computer for a PC or console VR setup. However, if you want to use a standalone VR system, you won’t be able to use one unless you own a smartphone.
PC or console VR
- PlayStation VR (PSVR)
- HTC Vive Pro
- Valve Index
- Pimax Vision 8K X
- Varjo Aero
Standalone VR Headsets
- Oculus Quest 2
- Lynx R1
- Arpara VR All In One
- Vive Focus 3
Mobile VR Headsets
- Samsung Gear VR
- Google Cardboard
- Merge VR
- VR Wear
Tethered VR Headsets
A tethered headset requires a cable connection, such as a USB port, to deliver display signals from one device to another.
With the help of PC and console processors, tetched VR headsets provide a more immersive VR environment than untetched ones.
There are several popular tethered headsets including the older Oculus Rift, Vive, and PlayStation VR which are controlled by an accessory controller.
Untethered Mobile VR Headsets
If you want a VR headset that works well with any smartphone, then the untethered version would be the best choice.
Standalone headsets are a wireless option for giving you an immersive VR/AR (augmented reality) experience without the need for a computer or game system. Because standalone headsets are simpler designs than tethered ones, they’re also much cheaper.
Popular untethered headsets include Oculus Quest 2 and the now-discontinue Samsung Gear VR. They’re both controlled via Bluetooth or headset buttons, respectfully.
Conclusion
The best VR headset depends on what kind of experience you want. If you want to play games, get a PC or console VR headset. If you just want to watch movies, get a standalone headset.
If you want both, get a tethered headset.
We hope that this article was helpful. If you have any queries feel free to reach out in the comments section below.