Digital Exploration: 5 Industries Being Affected by Virtual Reality

Virtual Reality ⯀  

Virtual reality has long been the dream of video game developers. As if pulled from the pages of a science fiction novel, VR headware like the Oculus Rift provide the ultimate in user immersion, transporting the player to lifelike digital realms.

The potential applications for virtual reality headsets aren't limited to mere entertainment purposes. The devices have slowly but surely made headway into a number of industries, Google Glass's progressive adoption by the commercial sector.

Healthcare

The healthcare industry was probably the earliest commercial adopter of VR systems, particularly within the realm of therapy. Virtual reality is useful for cognitive behavioral therapy, with a focus on the treatment of phobias, as it enables patients to encounter realistic but ultimately safe representations the objects they fear. Everything from spiders to heights can be simulated right in the therapist's office, making VR a versatile therapeutic tool.

Its use isn't limited to patients though. Virtual reality is a viable way of teaching medical students complex surgical techniques without the risks of putting untrained doctors with actual patients.

Real Estate

Taking inspiration from its use in the tourist industry, where VR headsets have been used to provide simulated tours of museums and historic buildings, real estate agents are taking advantage of VR's ability to simulate environments. Thanks to VR, agents can give virtual tours of properties to prospective renters and buyers, all within the comfort of the office or home.

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Armed Forces

The military has a long history of integrated "gaming" technology into its training programs. During the 1990's, the U.S. Army even adapted a number of Super Nintendo units and developed target practice games that utilized the console's "light gun" peripheral. Similarly, armed forces across the world have been quick to adopt VR, using it to train soldiers how to safely disarm IEDs or perform quick medical procedures on the battlefield. 

Automotive Industry

The automotive industry was among the earliest adopters of augmented reality eye wear, and they've since found practical applications for VR headsets as well. German automobile manufacturer Audi uses the headsets to tour an in-depth simulation of their cars, even allowing potential buyers to customize the simulated vehicle, allowing them to experience different feature packages before buying.

Education

From assembly line manufacturers to brain surgeons, VR provides a way for educators and employers to train future generations for any number of jobs. Unlike the real world, where a mistake on the part of a student can have disastrous consequences, errors made in a VR environment can be fixed by simple rebooting the simulation. This gives students more freedom to explore their chosen field.

By  Dixie Somers	Embed
Author Bio - Dixie is a freelance writer who loves to write about business, finance and self improvement. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.