We’ve seen an incredible amount of improvement within the exciting world of virtual reality recently as more and more technology companies strive to make this platform more accessible for the average consumer. Virtual reality might not excite you at all, however virtual reality will provide us with many benefits in due time. From doctors practicing virtual surgery to cutting-edge video games, virtual reality has a lot in store. Now when we’re talking about virtual reality, we are really looking at virtual reality goggles, as that is currently the most ideal method for delivering this technology. There are a variety of companies fiercely competing to bring new products to market, and a few that already have. So which companies are making the largest strides in the world of virtual reality? Here’s a list of five companies that we feel are leading the way when it comes to virtual reality.
5. Microsoft
While Microsoft has always pretty much been a software company, we have recently seen them become more involved in the world of hardware. They have launched a few successful pieces of hardware, the Xbox One and Surface come to mind, and are working hard to develop their first virtual reality headset. They call it the Microsoft HoloLens and have shown off a few prototypes and what they envision the product will be. Like other competitors, the HoloLens will be a pair of virtual reality goggles but it will go further than just being a gimmicky or niche device. In addition to incorporating the device with gaming, Microsoft tells us that the HoloLens will be completely compatible with Windows 10. So for example if you were a graphical designer, the HoloLens will let you create designs and projects virtually. Rather than projecting an entirely new virtual world, the HoloLens will augment existing reality. So not only will the HoloLens be a source of entertainment, Microsoft envisions that it will serve consumers more when it comes to work, creating things, and productivity. Check out their video to see more about what it can do.
4. Samsung
Samsung is well-known for pushing the envelope and taking big risks when it comes to technology, and they are another leading company when it comes to virtual reality. They first unveiled their headset, the Gear VR, back in 2014 and it’s one of the few devices that is currently on the market today. Instead of creating a standalone system, the Gear VR is interesting as it relies on a mobile smartphone. It’s priced at $199, and only currently works with their Galaxy Note 4. As of right now, it’s pretty much strictly an entertainment device but it’s still quite promising. Samsung has another Gear VR in the works that will be compatible with their newer S6 devices and they seem to be a relatively affordable virtual reality headset.
3. Google
Google entered into the world of virtual reality somewhat with their initial product known as the Google Glass. This was a device that augmented existing reality, providing the wearer with a few useful features. They launched the unit back in 2013, however it was only available for developers as more of a prototype device. Google as since ended the Google Glass project, however they are committed to continuing the platform and releasing a version for the mass market. Additionally Google has also developed another virtual reality platform known as Google Cardboard. It’s similar to the Gear VR in that you use an existing smartphone that will act as the display. It’s an open source project, and as the name implies, the unit is actually made from cardboard. These seems silly, however it’s easily the most affordable way to get into virtual reality. A few different companies make the cardboard headsets, and you can pick them up for under $15 bucks. As long as you have an Android compatible device, this is still the easiest and most affordable virtual reality system to date.
2. Sony
Sony is another company that many consider to be leading the way of virtual reality. They’ve had an interest in virtual reality for some time, and are currently working on one of the most attractive virtual reality headsets to date. It’s called Project Morpheus, and it will be a cutting-edge virtual reality headset that will pair with their Playstation 4 and Playstation Vita gaming consoles. It’s still currently in the prototype phase and is expected to be released sometime during the first quarter of 2016. It seems to be a very capable device that will bring the world of video games to the next level.
1. Oculus VR
Oculus VR is an American company that is considered to be the current industry leader in the world of virtual reality. The company gained traction a few years back when they created a Kickstarter campaign for their first consumer product, the Oculus Rift. At the time it was one of the first virtual reality headsets and the company managed to raise over $2.4 million dollars to develop the device. It’s currently set to launch in 2016 and many are excited to see what it will be capable of. The early prototypes have been so promising, that Facebook actually acquired Oculus VR in 2014 for $2 billion in cash and stock options. Oculus has had the most amount of time out of any company to develop and refine their platform, and many expect that when the Oculus Rift is finally released, it will be the best virtual reality headset on the market. To see more about the Oculus Rift, check out this hands-on video from The Verge.
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