Smartphones have infiltrated nearly all aspects of our lives in ways most people never could’ve imagined. And yet future generations will likely look back on the smartphone revolution as only a small appetizer in comparison with the feast that’s about to arrive: virtual reality.
We're nearing a profound shift in how we use technology that will impact all industries: from healthcare and education, to entertainment and retail. It can be difficult to imagine how a fully-immersive digital environment will change our relationships and our economy, but the savviest businesses and society’s leaders must do just that.
What will it mean when our experience of the internet moves from two to three dimensional? How will it transform the way we shop, learn, and relate to one another? Here are a few predictions:
- VR will make it easier to conceptualize projects. This will make it simpler for builders, designers, contractors and remodelers to work with clients to achieve their visions.
- Experiential marketing will help both businesses and consumers. VR will make it possible to tour college campuses without driving anywhere—or check out a new resort before deciding to book a vacation.
- Learning new skills will be easier and more fun. Remember those simulators for learning to drive a vehicle? VR is like that—only exponentially better. The U.S. military is already using VR to train its personnel and this application will only grow.
- Remote control will go mainstream. VR will make it easier to fly a drone from far away—or even a spaceship.[1]
These are just a small sampling of the ways VR is poised to change the world. It’s exciting! Are you ready?
