Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that has been around for several decades, but it wasn’t until recently that it has become mainstream. VR allows users to experience immersive environments and interact with them in a way that feels like they are actually there. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of virtual reality and when it was first created.
The Beginnings of Virtual Reality
Virtual reality can be traced back to the 1960s, when researchers at the Swordfish Research Station in Monterey, California began experimenting with immersive environments. They used a technique called “stereoscopic display,” which involved presenting two slightly different perspectives from each eye to create a sense of depth and realism.
One of the earliest examples of virtual reality was a system called “The Swordfish Room,” which was designed to simulate a submarine’s interior. Users would wear headsets with screens that displayed stereoscopic images, creating the illusion of being inside the submarine.
In the 1970s, researchers at MIT developed a VR system called “Head-Mounted Display” (HMD) that used a single screen to display images in front of each eye. This technology laid the foundation for modern virtual reality headsets.
The Birth of Modern Virtual Reality
In 1980, a computer programmer named Jaron Lanier introduced a system called “Artificial Reality,” which used HMDs and sensors to track users’ movements and create immersive environments. This technology was later used in the development of VR games and simulations.
The first commercially successful virtual reality system, called “Virtual Reality Theater System” (VRTS), was introduced in 1992. It allowed users to experience 360-degree video in a theater setting, and it was used primarily for entertainment purposes.
In the late 1990s, a company called Sega introduced a VR system called “Dreamcast” that used a special controller to track users’ movements and create immersive gaming experiences. While Dreamcast was not a commercial success, it paved the way for future virtual reality gaming systems.
The Modern Era of Virtual Reality
In 2010, a company called Oculus VR introduced a prototype of its flagship virtual reality headset, the Oculus Rift. The Oculus Rift used advanced sensors and tracking technology to create a highly immersive experience, and it quickly gained popularity among early adopters.
In 2016, Samsung released a VR system called “Gear VR,” which was designed specifically for use with the company’s flagship smartphones. Gear VR allowed users to experience virtual reality on the go, without the need for a high-end computer or specialized hardware.
Today, virtual reality is becoming increasingly mainstream, with new systems and applications being developed all the time. From gaming to education to healthcare, virtual reality is changing the way we interact with technology and the world around us.
In conclusion, virtual reality has been around for several decades, but it wasn’t until recently that it has become mainstream. From its early beginnings at the Swordfish Research Station to the modern Oculus Rift, virtual reality technology has come a long way in creating immersive environments that feel like the real thing. As this technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting and innovative applications in the years to come.
