VR’s dominance in the tech world will continue through 2024. As hardware, software, and immersive content improve, VR will expand beyond gaming into education, healthcare, entertainment, and the workplace. With the rise of these technologies, 2024 will be a landmark year for VR. Here are some trends to watch out for.
A lighter, faster, and more immersive VR headset
By 2024, VR headsets will be more immersive, comfortable, and easier to use. Meta, Sony, and HTC are developing lighter, faster, and more powerful headsets. Additionally, Meta Quest 3 promises better visuals, longer battery life, and a simpler interface to make the VR experience more realistic. Meanwhile, Apple is rumored to be building an advanced VR headset that could improve resolution and device integration. These advancements will make VR more mainstream and accessible. According to The Verge
Tactile feedback and sensory technology
Tactile feedback technology that allows users to “feel” their virtual environment is a hot topic in VR development in 2024. In the VR space, startups and companies are developing gloves, suits, and other wearable devices that simulate touch, heat, and pressure. Haptic gadgets like the Teslasuit and Contact Glove provide real-time physical feedback, making gaming, virtual training, and simulations more immersive. By 2024, these technologies will make virtual reality even more realistic. TechRadar (quote)
Social VR platform
Horizon Worlds and VRChat are leading the way in social VR. User interaction in immersive 3D environments on social VR platforms is expected to increase by 2024. In addition to video games, these platforms allow users to attend virtual events, work in virtual offices, and hang out with friends in customized virtual locations. Social VR will revolutionize online communication as the Metaverse—a collaborative virtual world that combines physical and digital reality—evolves. Reference: Wired
VR Training and Therapy for Healthcare
By 2024, VR will also make inroads into healthcare. Virtual reality simulations will allow doctors to perform surgeries, operations, and patient care without risk. Startups like Osso VR and Precision OS are developing VR platforms that allow surgeons to practice before performing complex surgeries on patients. VR exposure therapy can help patients with anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and phobias. These apps are transforming medical education and treatment. According to Forbes
VR Training and Education
By 2024, VR will transform workplace education and training. Virtual classrooms and training programs will allow students and staff to connect with knowledge in new ways. Educators can use Engage and ClassVR to build virtual learning environments where students can explore historical sites, conduct scientific experiments, and collaborate in real time. VR workers provide hands-on experience with machine operation, emergency response, and customer service without physical resources. Reference: Educational Technology Magazine
VR at Work: Remote Collaboration
Remote work is driving the adoption of VR in virtual collaboration. By 2024, VR will be used more for virtual meetings, project collaboration, and training. Spatial and Glue create virtual workspaces where teams can think, meet, and communicate in real time. Virtual workspaces enable more natural and immersive collaboration than video conferencing, combining in-person and remote work. As VR technology advances, virtual offices could become commonplace in the workplace. Reference: TechCrunch
VR Gaming: Pushing the Boundaries
VR gaming will grow in 2024 and become a major driver of VR innovation. More complex, interactive, and expansive VR games are being developed using the latest devices to deliver an immersive experience. New virtual world games are pushing the boundaries of Half-Life: Alyx. The popular multiplayer VR game lets players team up with friends in massive, interactive environments. As VR devices evolve, more innovative games will take advantage of it. Reference: Polygon
Mixed reality (MR) and augmented reality (AR)
VR-MR-AR integration is another fascinating topic in 2024. VR immerses users in a digital world, while MR and AR add digital components to reality. Microsoft’s HoloLens is leading the way in combining virtuality and reality. By 2024, more VR platforms will include AR, allowing users to interact with their physical and virtual environments. This hybrid approach expands entogle Earth VR lets users explore renowned locations, towns, and natural wonders in amazing detail. This technology makes globe travel easier, especially for individuals who cannot travel. Virtual travel may become more widespread as VR experiences improve. Reference: Lonely Planet Summary: 2024 is a VR milestone.
Conclusion
VR is advancing quickly, and 2024 will be a milestone year. VR is more immersive, accessible, and versatile than ever thanks to hardware, haptic feedback, social platforms, and healthcare, education, and employment applications. VR will shape how we engage with digital surroundings, collaborate, and enjoy entertainment as these trends expand. Watch these cutting-edge developments as VR becomes mainstream. According to CB Insights
