Virtual Reality: A Brief Guide to the Different Types

Virtual Reality: A Brief Guide to the Different Types

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There are now 57.4 million users of virtual reality technology in the United States. For business or recreation, the uses of this exciting new technology are endless. But do you know just how many types of virtual reality (VR) there are?

If not, then we can break them down for you. Read on as we discuss the types of virtual reality you need to know.

1. Non-Immersive Virtual Reality Technology

Non-immersive technology is a virtual environment which you interact with indirectly. You will use a computer or virtual reality technology to control characters and activities. While you can have an effect on the environment, it will not be interacting with you.

These types of worlds are more common than you would think. A video game is a prime example of this, as you interact with it through the use of an avatar. While you are in the game, you still have control of your physical environment.

2. Semi-Immersive Virtual Reality

A semi-immersive environment hits a middle ground between non-immersive and fully immersive. It allows you to move and interact in a virtual environment, but the visual element is all you have to experience it.

You can find this type of VR in a lot of places. Tours are one particular area where you may have encountered them.

3. Fully Immersive

When you enter a fully immersive virtual environment, you enter the physical space yourself. It involves using a headset display to enter virtual worlds, using sight and sound to make it feel like you are in the space. Data from sensors on the equipment helps the environment respond to your actions.

This type of VR is popular in the gaming world, with many titles being adapted for VR games. However, it is also entering other sectors, particularly education.

4. Collaborative VR

Collaborative VR involves using virtual reality to connect people from different areas. This can be for work or play. Users will usually take the form of a three-dimensional character or avatar.

The virtual reality metaverse is an example that is growing in popularity. Here, people can use VR to schedule metaverse meetings. They can work and collaborate in a conference room that exists in a virtual space.

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5. Augmented Reality

Augmented reality works slightly differently. Instead of putting the user into the virtual world, it brings virtual reality to the physical environment of the user. This is often done through the screen of a mobile device, placing objects and characters in the room, though they don’t exist in the physical world.

Photographic filters are a great example, particularly the fun ones used on the social platform Snapchat. They can add objects to a person or room, even though they are not present in the real world.

Using the Different Types of Virtual Reality

Now that you know the types of virtual reality, you should try them out. You can invest in some equipment and do it from home, or visit local VR cafés and bars. You may even introduce it to your business operations.

This article is one of many to help you understand modern-day technology, including virtual reality and the metaverse. From mobiles to marketing, we can help you traverse the digital world in the coming year. Keep browsing our site for more.

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