Virtual reality (VR) has become more than a thing in science fiction, now that it has become more mainstream. There are currently over 57.4 million VR users in the US alone, and that number is still expected to climb as the demand for AR/VR headsets continues to ascend.
VR is often used for gaming purposes, but it is also finding its way into other industries such as healthcare, education, business, and more.
We'll explore more about how businesses are using VR technology and how your business can reap the benefits of VR too.
What is virtual reality (VR)?
Virtual reality is a computer-generated simulation of an environment that allows you to experience it as if you were actually in that place. It uses technology to create a virtual world that you can interact with in a realistic way.
You will also need a VR headset in order to immerse yourself in the experience. The most popular ones on the market today are the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Sony PlayStation VR, among many others.
The main thing that sets VR apart from other types of emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) is the level of immersion. AR and MR still take place in the real world, but VR transports you to a completely different environment that is entirely digital.
11 examples of how VR is used in business today
There are many potential applications for VR in business. Here are some examples of how different industries are currently using VR technology:
1. Training and education
One of the most popular uses for VR is in training and education. Businesses can use VR to create realistic simulations of work environments or other places where employees need to be trained. This can be helpful for things like safety procedures, customer service, or even something like disaster preparedness.
PIXO VR is one good example of a business solution that leverages VR for trainings. PIXO uses virtual reality to create immersive simulations of various work environments like construction sites, office spaces, and more. Employees can then be trained on how to handle different situations that might arise in those places.
2. Aviation and aerospace
Virtual reality is also being used in the aviation and aerospace industry to help train pilots and astronauts, respectively. It can be used to simulate different flying conditions and scenarios so that they can be prepared for anything they might encounter in the real world or in outer space.
One company that is using VR for pilot training is called CAE. CAE provides a variety of VR training solutions, the latest one being their Sprint VR trainer, which allows pilots to experience different flight conditions in a safe and controlled environment.
NASA is also heavily investing in VR for training, research, and education. They also use a variety of AR/VR solutions for the operation of their space stations.
3. Military and law enforcement
Virtual reality can be used to simulate different combat scenarios or crime scenes so that soldiers and law enforcement officers can be better prepared.
One company that provides VR training solutions for law enforcement is called VirTra. VirTra offers a variety of simulators for police training, complete with full-body haptic feedback and realistic graphics.
Beyond combat scenarios, VR can also be used for military medic training, which simulates high-stress situations such as gunshots and helicopter sounds to give military healthcare professionals more realistic training.
4. Healthcare
VR is also starting to be used more in the healthcare industry. It can be used for things like pain management, physical therapy, mental health treatment, and more.
Immersive Rehab, for example, offers VR-based physical therapy programs that are designed to help patients recover from injuries or surgeries. Another healthcare company that uses VR is Karuna Labs, which offers VR-based chronic pain management programs.
5. Hospitality, travel and dining
The hospitality, travel, and dining industries are also starting to use VR to give customers a more immersive experience. For example, Marriott Hotels has created a virtual reality experience called Marriott VRoom Service way back in 2015, which allows guests to order room service from the comfort of their own Oculus Rift headset.
During the height of the pandemic, travel companies have also been using VR to give people a way to virtually explore different destinations. Some restaurants are also starting to use VR to let customers tour the kitchen and see how their food is being prepared.
6. Art, fashion and entertainment
The art, fashion, and entertainment industries are also being revolutionized by VR technology. For example, some museums are now using VR to give visitors a more immersive experience. Fashion designers are also starting to use VR to create virtual runway shows.
Digital art pieces can also be sold on the metaverse through non-fungible tokens (NFTs). VR platforms like Spatial are being used to host NFT art exhibitions, among many of its other functions.
In the entertainment industry, VR is being used for things like video games, movies, and live events. Oculus Story Studio, for example, is pioneering the creation of VR films.
7. Journalism and media
The journalism and media industries are also starting to use VR to create more immersive and engaging content. The New York Times, for example, has used both AR and VR to create a number of different news experiences, including one that lets viewers experience what it’s like to be a refugee.
Another example is the film company RYOT, which has used VR to create a number of different immersive documentary films, including one about the conflict in Syria.
8. Real estate and architecture
The real estate industry is another one that is starting to leverage VR technology. Companies like Realtor.com and Houzz are already using VR to give potential homebuyers or renters a way to view properties without having to physically be there.
In architecture, VR is being used to create virtual models of buildings so that architects can get a better sense of how they will look and function. One example is the company Spatial, which offers a VR platform that lets architects, artists, and other creators collaborate in real-time and share their creations in the metaverse.
9. Virtual collaboration
In a similar vein, collaboration using VR is also becoming more commonplace in a variety of industries. For example, Autodesk is using VR to let engineers and architects collaborate on projects in real-time, regardless of location.
Glue is another example of a virtual collaboration platform used by many different companies, including Microsoft, Sodexo, and HP. It offers not only collaboration tools but also the ability to create 3D workspaces and immersive VR training venues for its users.
10. Manufacturing and construction
The manufacturing and construction industries are also starting to use VR to increase efficiency and productivity. For example, Caterpillar is using VR to train operators on how to use its heavy machinery.
In construction, VR is being used for things like project planning, design review, and site inspection. One example is the company HoloBuilder, which offers a platform that lets construction managers create virtual models of their projects.
11. Marketing and eCommerce
Lastly, the marketing and e-commerce industries are also starting to use VR to create more engaging experiences for customers. For example, Nike has expanded their marketing channel into the metaverse by creating a virtual world in the gaming platform Roblox where players can dress up their Avatars with Nike apparel.
Virtual marketplaces like Octopus XR are also gaining momentum in redefining how customers shop online. With Octopus, brands offering VR apps can market and sell their products on an all-in-one platform.
Enhance Your Brand with AR/VR Solutions
VR is being used in a number of different industries to create more immersive and engaging experiences. Whether it’s for training, education, marketing, or something else entirely, the potential applications for VR are nearly limitless.
So if you’re looking for a way to enhance your brand using AR/VR technology, Octopus XR is here to give you a lending hand. Contact us today to know more about how you can leverage virtual reality for your brand!
