Virtual reality (VR) technology has come a long way since its inception in the early 1960s. Initially, it was aimed mainly at military training and research purposes. However, recent developments have opened up new possibilities, including gaming, entertainment, education, and medical treatment.
Here’s a timeline of the key events in the history of VR technology:
1965: The Birth of VR
The first VR head-mounted display (HMD) was created by Ivan Sutherland, a computer graphics pioneer, in 1965. Although primitive by today’s standards, the device represented an important milestone in the development of VR technology.
1985: Starting the modern VR era
In 1985, VPL Research introduced the Data Glove, an innovative technology that allowed users to interact with virtual environments using hand gestures. It was quickly followed by the EyePhone and Audio Sphere, which added head and audio tracking, respectively.
1993: The first consumer VR headset
The first VR headset available for consumers was launched in 1993 by SEGA. Called the SEGA VR, it used stereoscopic LCD screens and head-tracking to create a 3D gaming experience. However, its high cost and limited game library stopped it from becoming a commercial success.
2010: A new wave of VR technology
In 2010, a new wave of VR technology emerged, sparked by the development of smartphone technology. The introduction of the Oculus Rift Kickstarter campaign in 2012, which raised $2.4 million, marked the start of modern consumer VR. It was later acquired by Facebook in 2014 for $2 billion.
2016: Advanced VR options become more accessible
After Facebook's acquisition of Oculus, major technological brands started developing VR technologies. Other headsets like the HTC Vive, PS VR, and Samsung Gear VR soon followed. They varied in price, ease of use, and offered diverse game libraries to consumers.
2020: VR in the covid-era
Following the Covid-19 pandemic, virtual reality technology has been applied more frequently in business and education. Online classes, training, and meetings have largely transitioned to VR. Companies like Spatial and VRChat saw exponential growth as people across the world were required to stay at home.
Conclusion
The evolution of virtual reality technology has taken several decades, and the development and growth of VR is set to continue. The future appears very promising, with new companies entering the competition, and newer, better VR technology being developed.
References
- W1TECH Virtual Reality. (2021). Brief History of Virtual Reality. https://w1tech-vr.com/history-of-virtual-reality/
- Gilson, D. (2016). A brief history of virtual reality. Techworld. https://www.techworld.com/picture-gallery/apps-wearables/brief-history-of-virtual-reality-3621404/