The term “virtual reality” has been used in various forms since the 1960s, but it was not until the early 2000s that the term gained widespread use and recognition.
The term is often associated with computer-generated simulations of a 3D environment that a person can interact with using specialized equipment such as headsets or gloves equipped with sensors.
The concept of virtual reality was first introduced by Ivan Sutherland, an American computer scientist, in the late 1960s. Sutherland created one of the earliest virtual reality systems called “Swordfishtrombones” in 1968.
The system allowed users to explore a virtual environment and interact with objects using a head-mounted display and gloves equipped with sensors.
In the 1980s, virtual reality technology began to advance significantly, and several companies started developing prototypes of virtual reality systems. One such company was Silicon Graphics, which developed a prototype system called “The Cave” in 1987.
The system used a series of mirrors to create the illusion of a 3D environment that could be explored by a person standing in front of the mirrors.
In the 1990s, virtual reality technology continued to advance, and several companies began marketing their virtual reality systems to businesses and consumers. However, the high cost of the equipment and limited availability of content hampered the adoption of virtual reality technology.
The early 2000s saw a significant breakthrough in virtual reality technology with the development of more affordable and accessible equipment. In 2004, Valve Corporation released the first version of its virtual reality system called “Half-Life 2,” which included a headset and gloves equipped with sensors. The system became widely popular and paved the way for the mainstream adoption of virtual reality technology.
In conclusion, the term “virtual reality” has been used in various forms since the 1960s, but it was not until the early 2000s that the term gained widespread use and recognition. The advancements in virtual reality technology in the 1980s and 1990s laid the groundwork for the development of more affordable and accessible equipment, which paved the way for the mainstream adoption of virtual reality technology.
