While not long ago solely the domain of movies set in futuristic environments, augmented reality services have steadily become more popular among the general public. Although adoption remains somewhat low, awareness is rising every year, and most would give the devices a try if presented with the chance. But what makes the technology so appealing, and is it enough to ensure its long-term survival?
Immersive
People are drawn to new experiences provided by technological developments, and as the tech progresses so does the demand for something new. The immersive environment provided by VR means enjoying entertainment without the risks of distractions intervening and spoiling the experience. There are different levels, from the non-immersive, which means users are still fully aware that they are part of a simulated setting, to the fully immersive, which provides highly realistic environments. And technology is still progressing, so multi-dimensional, interactive experiences that cannot be distinguished from reality could become a reality relatively soon.
Fun
Lives are hectic, schedules are packed with responsibilities, and the lists of chores are never-ending, so it only makes sense to want to escape a little. If you’re looking for a memorable experience, you can just visit the Park VR Leeds and embark on a fully digital adventure. To increase the fun factor, make sure you bring a group of friends, family members, or work colleagues along to tackle the challenges of the quest together. There are several different stories you can become part of, such as solving bank robberies, engaging in epic shootouts in futuristic worlds, or unravelling mysteries in ancient Egypt.
Better learning
The importance of education for human well-being and development cannot be overstated. As new technologies continue to emerge on the market, there’s increasing discussion about their potential to revolutionise the world as we know it. Although it can sound hard to believe, VR has the potential to change the education system and shift paradigms in learning and acquiring information. Students can get better insights and explore landmarks from all over the world, visit historic landmarks and get more immersive experiences on learning as a whole.
Those who find studying difficult could find solace in VR, as the medium allows them to retain information faster and engage more. Students who require practical training as well, like engineers, architects, surgeons and pilots, can develop their skills through VR. Since the environment is perfectly controlled, there’s no risk of putting themselves or others in danger the first time they tackle more complex activities and tasks.
Healthcare
Healthcare is perhaps the most obvious contender for technological development. Since the primary purpose of technology is to improve human lives and boost wellness, healthcare is the natural endgame for several technological developments. The possibilities offered by artificial intelligence, from helping in the operating theatre to ensuring the integrity of patient records and decreasing the risk of fraud have been widely discussed already. But how can VR help?
For starters, it can aid all those dealing with mental health complaints, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression or anxiety. VR can be integrated into the healing process, particularly exposure therapy. The virtual environment it creates can be monitored so that the patient is exposed to just as much information as they need gradually to alleviate symptoms and desensitise the mind to the stimuli. There’s no risk of going overboard and reigniting the trauma, causing more harm than good.
The other natural use is in the training process so that future physicians can practise diagnosis procedures and simulate surgeries and different treatment schemes.
Collaboration
Technology-based innovation is frequently seen as the bane of human interaction, but that is often an extreme and short-sighted view. Augmented reality can be used to enhance collaborative efforts and communication in the classrooms and lecture rooms, as well as in the work environment. Creating a shared environment with a visual basis allows everyone involved to concentrate on the projects more efficiently so that work is completed much faster.
The virtual worlds can also be tailored to the needs of every single person to create environments that benefit everyone. Virtual reality can also ensure and boost communication between individuals who are not physically located in the same space so that any issues that arise from remote working can be mitigated.
Understanding
Yet another misconception about technology is that it makes people fundamentally distant and unable to empathise with others. But when used correctly, VR allows users to gain fresh perspectives on things, as well as a better understanding of others’ experiences. It can also be used as part of the development of inclusivity efforts to promote and foster empathy for all people.
As the world develops and becomes more interconnected, technology can ensure that the developments move in the right direction and bring forth positive development. There’s always a risk that things could become skewed, which is why it’s crucial to encourage and stimulate positive development. Virtual reality has the potential to achieve that.
