Virtual reality is as inspiring as it is thought-provoking. While some see it as an unprecedented technological opportunity, it can also lead to dystopian scenarios worthy of a Black Mirror episode. Could this technology ultimately isolate humanity? Or, on the contrary, is it a revolutionary tool created to entertain and improve everyone’s daily life?
As technology develops, its uses multiply. Even though, in the collective imagination, virtual reality only exists through a VR headset, there are now many other possibilities, and in many fields! As virtual reality gradually expands into the world of work, what role will it play in our future?
First of all, many people limit virtual reality to the use of VR headsets. Is that all it is?
Contrary to popular belief, the experience does not require wearing a virtual reality headset. There are other ways to experience it, even though virtual reality games with headsets are one of the most popular methods. For example, you can use software or programs to simulate a virtual reality experience on your computer or television screen. Video projection or mapping technology can also be used to create virtual reality experiences, giving the impression that virtual scenes or objects are truly present in the real world. Similarly, simulators in theme parks allow visitors to experience virtual reality. The term “simulator” refers to attractions that give visitors the impression of being in the real world by using visual effects, sound effects, and movement to recreate the environment. Some of these simulators may also incorporate VR elements such as VR headsets or screens, to make the experience even more realistic. Examples include flight simulators, driving simulators, and even roller coaster simulators. In conclusion, virtual reality refers to an experience in which a person is immersed in an artificial environment. The most common and effective way to experience it is with a headset, but there are other ways to enjoy it as well.
Can you explain the difference between virtual, augmented, and mixed reality?
There are several methods for interacting with real and virtual environments, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality. While there are some parallels between these terms, there are also significant differences. Using a special headset, virtual reality technology allows users to explore entirely invented worlds. Users feel immersed in them. Thanks to augmented reality technology, virtual objects or data can be integrated into the physical environment. People can, for example, view virtual images on their phone or tablet screen while keeping their eyes on the real environment in front of them. When virtual reality and augmented reality are combined in a single technique, it is called “mixed reality .” Humans can interact with virtual visual elements that have been inserted into the real environment, as if they were truly real. In this case, it then appears as if there are real physical objects within the virtual environment. There are several distinctions between these technologies, which researchers are currently trying to define. However, virtual reality is generally more immersive and has no connection to reality. In contrast, mixed reality and augmented reality focus more on augmenting the real environment. They allow users to engage with virtual things while maintaining a connection to the real world; in fact, they are sometimes considered a step between virtual reality and augmented reality.
Today, which professions use virtual reality? For what purposes do they use VR?
Many types of jobs use this technology for different reasons. For example, companies can use virtual reality to train their employees, conduct interactive presentations, and simulate work situations. Virtual reality can also be used to train medical students, plan surgical operations, and perform medical procedures. Architects and designers can use it to design buildings and spaces, allowing their clients to see their design ideas in real time. Finally, it can be used in the entertainment and video game sectors for a more immersive and interactive experience. Let me give you an example. When I was younger, I attended a trade show where VR was being used to test the ergonomics and usability of a car model for mechanics. Users put on a headset to experience a virtual version of the vehicle and learn about its parts and components. They could then see how the different parts worked together. This helped to highlight design flaws. As a result, designers and engineers were able to work faster and save money on the costs of testing physical prototypes. VR technology can also be used to simulate spaces that are not visible in real life, such as the fourth dimension. This provides scientists and mathematicians with a practical and interactive way to study complex ideas. Teachers can use VR to create interactive models to explain mathematical or scientific concepts that are difficult to grasp otherwise. Students can then look around and interact with these virtual models to learn more. Scientists can also use it to simulate things that are too dangerous or impossible to achieve in real life, such as space travel or laboratory experiments. This allows them to test and improve new technologies in a much safer and easier way! In conclusion, virtual reality is used in a wide range of fields such as training, design, simulation, presentation, education, and entertainment.
If you had to list the three main advantages of virtual reality, what would they be? And three disadvantages?
As for the advantages, I would say first and foremost, the ability to immerse oneself in unknown worlds. Virtual reality allows for immersion in incredible worlds, the exploration of places that could not exist otherwise… These are fascinating experiences that transport us out of our everyday lives! Furthermore, it also represents a new way of learning: VR is a powerful tool that allows us to simulate scenarios, test our skills, and discover knowledge in a safe and controlled environment. This technology offers a new path to discover and understand the world around us. Third, this technology offers us a blank canvas for creative expression, where we can experiment with new ideas, create innovative artwork and designs, and connect with others through immersive experiences. It allows us to explore new horizons in creation and bring to life worlds that would otherwise never have existed. From a drawback perspective, it can be a burden: with its bulky headsets, cables, and equipment, it can be cumbersome for those seeking a portable and easy-to-use experience. Furthermore, it can be a solitary experience, lacking human interaction and social sharing. Headsets can isolate users and prevent them from connecting with others in a significant way. Finally, it’s an expensive luxury, with high prices for headsets, computers, and other equipment needed to power the experience. This can make it inaccessible to some and limit its use to those who can afford to pay the premium price.
In an era where virtual reality is increasingly present, what about the security of user data?
I’m not a data security expert. However, since VR uses technologies similar to those of tablets and mobile phones, the same security concerns likely apply. This includes the collection of personal data, hacking, and the risks of loss or theft of equipment. Regarding augmented reality, it’s true that data collection can be an additional concern, as this technology allows for the capture of images and videos of the real-world environment. However, software developers and companies are working to implement appropriate security measures to protect user data and minimize the risk of unauthorized data collection. Users of virtual reality and augmented reality must be aware of the potential security risks and take steps to protect their personal data. This can be done by using strong passwords, installing antivirus software, and protecting equipment against loss or theft.
How do you see virtual reality in 10 years? What place do you think it will occupy in our daily lives?
I think that in 10 years, virtual reality will be increasingly common in high schools and training centers, as the equipment becomes cheaper and easier to transport. VR could also be an escape for those who can’t afford bigger houses or more luxurious vacations. Of course, it won’t replace those experiences, but it can be an affordable and practical alternative. This technology can have a positive impact on our daily lives. After surgery, I personally used virtual reality to relax; it was like being in a comfortable environment. It helped me feel more at ease during my recovery and reduced stress. I also believe that VR will continue to be used in architecture, design, medical training, and therapy. It will allow professionals to work more efficiently and simulate complex scenarios in a controlled environment. Overall, I think VR will continue to play an important role in our daily lives, offering learning and escapist opportunities that were previously unavailable.
Today, are there any obstacles preventing the development of virtual reality?
There are several factors hindering its development. I think most people are in favor of its adoption in an educational context. However, they are still concerned about the cost, as in many countries, the cheapest VR headset can cost more than the average monthly salary. Another common problem is comfort, as some users may experience nausea or headaches when using a headset for extended periods. This is one of the reasons why my research focuses on ways to improve user comfort. Of course, some of the challenges associated with virtual reality are more technical and can make it more difficult to deliver the VR headsets seen in advertisements. The goal is to provide the most realistic experience with the fewest possible components, and this requires significant technological advancements: improving screen resolution, increasing refresh rate, and reducing latency, all while minimizing the size and weight of the equipment. Furthermore, virtual reality design must take into account the user’s physical limitations, such as eye distance and vision correction, to avoid headaches and nausea. Despite these challenges, progress continues in the field, with companies and researchers working together to make this technology more accessible, comfortable, and immersive.
In the world of work and the relationships that result from it, do you think virtual reality has a role to play? If so, what is it?
Yes, it has a role to play: workers will be able to have unlimited workspace in a virtual environment, allowing them to be more efficient and productive. Think of how Wall Street traders are portrayed in movies, with walls of computer monitors that allow them to monitor the markets in real time. With VR, these workers could have access to a similar virtual workspace with an infinite number of resources. For office jobs, it might not be necessary to have the best VR headsets available, but simply a headset that allows for comfortable reading and continued work. This would also allow employees to work from home while feeling like they are working in a traditional office environment. Furthermore, virtual reality could be used for jobs that don’t yet exist or are not mainstream, such as piloting drones or operating robots in dangerous or hard-to-reach environments. Similarly, it could be used for sensitive jobs, such as training surgeons before an operation. Furthermore, with the rise of artificial intelligence, new professions could be created thanks to VR. For example, AI models could be used to autonomously generate virtual worlds or to assist in content creation for video games, films, and other media. This could pave the way for new professions such as “Virtual World Generation Prompt Operator,” who would help guide AI models in creating immersive and realistic virtual worlds. Overall, virtual reality offers enormous potential for the world of work and the relationships that arise from it. It could improve productivity, make tasks safer and more efficient, and offer more immersive training experiences for workers. It’s a technology that I believe will have a major impact on the future of work and professional relationships.
Do you think people expect virtual reality to have a functional role, something useful to them, or an entertainment role?
Personally, I love VR for VR’s sake; I find it very fun and amazing. However, I believe that companies will start adopting it for pragmatic reasons, such as reducing energy consumption. Indeed, comparing many dual-lens monitors, which are virtually the size of a mobile phone, is impressive. Or to improve ergonomics, since people won’t be tethered to a specific location, thus reducing the risk of workplace injuries. They can also be used to avoid distractions during working hours and ensure that staff are working. This is somewhat worrying and raises a new ethical question. In summary, I think virtual reality will have both an entertainment role and a very useful functional role in many different fields. And personally, I love the idea that we will soon be able to live in a world that is both fun and functional thanks to VR.
Interaction is one of the pillars of virtual reality. But in the long run, doesn’t the technology risk replacing real human interaction?
That’s a very philosophical question and a difficult one to answer, but I don’t think virtual reality will replace “real” human interactions any more than phones have. We’re simply giving people more opportunities to connect with others they wouldn’t otherwise connect with, across multiple dimensions. People with social anxiety, for example, are better able to communicate (or at least give speeches) in virtual reality. VR can enhance facial expressions, which can be helpful for people with social difficulties. On the other hand, people who prefer face-to-face conversations can still do so! It’s true that people now make video calls before appointments to save time. If we consider this a substitute for real human interaction, I would agree. However, I see it more as an enhancement that gives us another way to interact before real connections are formed. And to further emphasize this point of human connection, it’s not hard to find black and white photos of people ignoring each other with newspapers in the past. I just think that people who don’t want to connect will continue not to. We’re simply giving a chance to those who want to connect but find it difficult!