2016 - The year of cheap Virtual Reality

2016 - The year of cheap Virtual Reality

VR Technology

Virtual Reality is an interesting concept of immersing oneself into another simulated world.  It is bigger than 3D, which is about creating another dimension beyond the 2D space.  Since the foretelling of its theory before 1950, we have many consumer products like the Sega VR headset and Virtual Boy which transport us into another gaming reality.  VR is not bounded by games and has extensive applications in training and real-life applications.

The main obstacle for the popularity of VR is the hardware cost.  To create an environment for VR, the traditional approach is to invent an expensive headset for people to wear.  The premium price deters many potential customers and VR never reach the mass market.

The era of cheap VR

With the introduction of the Google Cardboard priced at S$3 to S$5, VR becomes a reality for many.  In fact, one may make the cardboard and buy the lens from the market.  The missing piece is the smartphone we have now.

The requirements for smartphone are:

1. Chrome v44.0 and above;
2. Android 4.1/iOS 8.0 or above;
3. Screen size must fit the cardboard;
4. Display resolution preferably 1080;
5. OpenGL ES2.0; and
6. Gyroscope sensor present.

Just follow these simple steps and you have a cheap VR headset in 10 minutes.  If you DIY, you may have to configure customised profile via Google Profile Generator.

Fun with VR

One can view VR videos via YouTube and enjoy the thrills especially for those 360 degrees videos.  Some of my favourites are:

1. [Extreme] 360° RollerCoaster at Seoul Grand Park;
2. Solar System 360 Degree Tour!; and
3. 360° cockpit view | SWISS Airbus A320 | Geneva – Zurich

You can also download Google Street View and virtually tour famous places around the world.  There are some games available online which requires more movement and actions.  You can also enjoy a VR movie and enjoy the stunning 3D effects and see your surrounding.  However, it is advisable to take more short breaks for a long movie due to the straining on the eyes.

With powerful hardware inside our smartphone, VR is no longer a distant target but an immediate reality.  If you are free this weekend, make a VR headset or order a Google Cardboard online now to have some fun with your loved ones.  I am sure the kids will love it.