Cool Things You Can Do with Virtual Reality besides Gaming
You have seen a lot of fuss being made over virtual reality and you know it’s the next big thing. VR platforms are still in development and many companies are exploring the opportunities these platforms offer. So far the spotlight has been on VR games and devices, but there are more interesting ways to use VR. Let’s take a look at some of these creative VR applications:
Social Innovation
You can use virtual reality devices to make the users empathize with an under-advantaged group in the community. Virtual reality devices are powerful in terms of creating the atmosphere around the user and this allows them to more easily put themselves in the shoes of others.
This is a wheelchair simulator integrated with an Oculus by the company reo-tek. The purpose is to make users empathize with disabled people and create an inclusive community. Some user comments pointed out that they were not aware it was so hard to be in a wheelchair. Using virtual reality devices to recreate the experiences of an underprivileged group is a very powerful tactic to raise awareness. You can click here to learn more about the project.
Exercise
Shedding a few pounds through exercise is another use for VR devices. Who wouldn’t like some extra motivation to get up from the couch? While motion tracking in virtual reality is still in progress, creative solutions are developed by various companies. Think about the possibilities, you can ski with your friends on Ski Rodeo or practice yoga in a monastery with Guided Meditation VR.
VirZoom is a spin bike you can connect your VR headset too. It offers various games to choose from. As you pedal your way through the game, you also get some exercise. It also offers real-time races with other people around the world to make the games more competitive. By completing goals, you can earn coins to use in the game.
Create Experiences
When the VR wave is so overwhelming, few dare to ride on it. However, there are some platforms making it easy for users to create, paint and share. Google’s Tilt Brush is the most famous one between these platforms, allowing users to paint in three-dimensional space using controllers.
A-Frame is an open-source web platform where the users can create virtual reality experiences and websites. Since it is a web platform, it works on all VR devices from HTC to Google Cardboard. It also allows users to create their three-dimensional experience by painting with various brushes. Since it is open-source, it’s in constant development by the team and the users.
You have seen some innovative uses of virtual reality that add value to people’s lives. If you are thinking about doing a project with VR or even just getting started with your first VR device, we hope this article gave you some inspiration. Do you know other creative uses for VR besides gaming? Please, share with us in the comment section below.
