Health

Is Vr A Waste Of Money? Cost and Health Implications of VR

The vast majority of technological advances in the field of technology brought about a variety of concerns and differing opinions in their early stages.

As VRand the technologies it is based on is becoming more mainstream big companies are investing in the incorporating VR capabilities into their offerings and products.

While early integrations of VR were utilized for military simulations and gaming industries Today, the footprints of VR are being used in education, healthcare E-commerce, agricultural, and healthcare sectors.

Are VR investment in money? Many people think it’s not, but others view VR as a growing field that has worth.

Research and development for virtual reality and other VR gadgets is still in the early stages and still in the early stages, it’s late to conclude that VR in sense of a waste of resources.

Many people who think VR is just a waste of time and money are referring to the high cost of certain VR headsets controllers, VR-compatible PCs, and other related devices.

Another group of people is more concerned with health risks and various levels of discomfort that can be experienced from the prolonged use of VR headsets.

However, before deciding whether the VR experience is worth your time or not, let’s take a look back examine the way similar technology has developed throughout the decades. 

Early Generation vs. Modern Day Computers (Cost Comparison)

Many things have changed in the field of computing since the very first computer with a digital interface and computer that could be programmed “ENIAC,” was developed in 1945.

The story of today’s computer goes back to the year 1822, when Charles Babbage (The Father of Computers) invented”the “difference engine,” which is more than 200 years old from the moment it was conceptualized.

Computers of the past were so large that they took up entire rooms and cost millions to build.

In the time that ENIAC was built in 1946, its construction was estimated to cost $487,000 and when adjusted for inflation, it could be $7,299 today.

Yet, data from Statista indicates that in 2019, the average price of selling personal computers was between $632 to $733 within the United States.

Not only have personal computers decreased in size with time however, they’ve also developed to be faster and more efficient. They are also user-friendly at a fraction of the price of the first versions of computer.

What are the Cost Implications for Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets?

The first prototype for VR headsets came out in 1968. Even though they have been in use for 54 years research and development efforts focused on the development of VR are still in the initial stages.

Virtual reality consumer headsets came into spotlight in the year 2000 and have been through several versions.

Similar to other tech devices however, the more expensive versions of VR headsets typically have superior features such as improved user experience, superior graphics resolutions, and so on.

As per Statista the average cost of VR headsets for 2019 ranged $299-499, with the most popular brands such as HTC and the Oculus (Meta Quest) headsets as well as the HTC models having the largest market share.

As research and development in VR growing in popularity as well, the costs of VR headsets as well as VR compatible computers will be changed, making low-cost choices readily available on marketplaces.

Health Implications Due to Prolonged Use of Virtual Reality Headsets

The strapping of VR headsets on one’s head for long periods of time could result in varying levels of discomfort.

Based on Steve Baker, a software engineer who works using military and consumer grade VR glasses, “Not everyone gets VR sick, but for those that do, it’s a horrible experience.”

The majority of experiences using VR headsets VR headset requires users to rotate and twist their heads often to be immersed in the virtual world.

If this continues for long periods of time, it could result in neck strain and a slight pain. some people end up vomiting.

Steve Baker attributes the nauseating feeling and feeling of numbness that is caused by the prolonged usage in VR headsets as a result of ” depth of focus,” which is the root of the problem with the visual quality of virtual reality.

As per his research, the issue in deep focus seems to be not as severe in military-grade VR headsets when compared with the more affordable consumer-grade models.

However, studies that make use of “light-field technology” may help to solve this issue However, at present the concept is still in the realm of speculation.

How Have Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets Improved Over the Years?

The positive developments in the technology VR is based on have had an impact on the experience of users, as well as the user interface, and particularly the cost of VR headsets.

What was once thought to be an unnecessary expense or a cost-saving is now an affordable and thrilling entry point into the realm of virtual reality.

Contrary to early versions of VR headsets modern and upgraded versions provide many different types of apps, content and experiences that users can explore using virtual reality.

The latest versions from the Oculus (Meta Quest) and HTC Vive headsets that were developed as standalone consoles that support wireless functions, which eliminate the need to purchase special gaming or VR compatible PCs.

Although wireless headsets come with only a limited battery life, and have the same graphic resolution, but with a lower quality they offer greater freedom (physical room to roam around) as compared to VR headsets which have wired connectivity.

The headsets from Vr have also been improved to monitor movements easily with the help of HD sensors, cameras and built-in software that is that can be mounted at various angles to record hand and head motions.

The VR world is always changing and there have been a number of improvements in the last few years. As time passes it is likely that more changes will come to be unpacked.

Conclusion: Is Vr a Waste of Money?

What answer is the best one to ask is in one’s own convictions. For certain people the use of VR can be a waste time and money While others believe it’s worth the investment.

It’s important to be aware that the development and research in virtual reality have much to be done.

Gaming and the top tech giants are also focusing on developing gaming and experience with virtual reality their customers.

Virtual reality headsets that are budget-friendly headsets and other related devices are also coming onto the market, offering an affordable option for those who want to use them.

Virtual reality advocates believe in integrations with augmented as well as virtual reality and metaverse that could change the way our communication and interaction, beyond text and video-based channels.

The VR sector is relatively new, and a lot of people doubt its potential to make it big However, when you consider all the evidence, it’s impossible not to be excited about what’s to come next!

There’s an endless array of possibilities as virtual reality gives you the opportunity to connect with other people and share your creative ideas with greater involvement and presence.

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