VR in 2024: inflection point with Apple Vision Pro?

VR 2024 inflection point

Where will VR go in 2024? VR is in an interesting space right now: doldrums in the consumer market, but lots of cool new tech in Meta Quest Pro, Quest 3, and some App Store download data indicating Quest 3 is doing unexpectedly  well.

And of course we have Apple Vision Pro coming out SOON … which I hope to buy in Q1. But will likely be low-volume, as will other very high-end headsets intended for professional and business use like the Varjo XR-4 (which I recently demo’d in Las Vegas at CES).

So what can we expect in 2024 for VR? In this TechFirst, we chat with Rolf Illenberger, the founder and managing director of VRdirect.

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AI summary of this episode on VR in 2024

John Koetsier and Rolf Illenberger discuss:

 

  • the future of VR in 2024, focusing on its potential in the enterprise space
  • the current state of VR technology and its use cases in areas such as training, safety, internal communications, and virtual tours
  • challenges and opportunities for Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro headset
  • the importance of creating immersive experiences and intuitive user interfaces
  • Rolf’s prediction that 2024 will be a pivotal year for VR with increased adoption and integration into business operations

VR in 2024: a GPT-4 blog post based on this episode

As we enter 2024, the world of virtual reality (VR) is at an interesting crossroad. In this episode, we dive into the current state of VR and discuss the future and potential inflection point for this technology in 2024.

The Consumer Landscape
In the consumer space, VR has seen ups and downs. However, there are some exciting developments on the horizon. The Meta Quest Pro and the unexpected success of the Quest 3 App Store downloads indicate that VR is still capturing the interest of consumers. Additionally, the much-anticipated Apple Vision Pro headset, set to release in Q1, offers the potential to redefine the VR landscape with its innovative features.

The Enterprise Adoption
While the consumer market might still need a few more iterations to gain widespread success, the enterprise adoption of VR is on the rise. VR is proving to be a valuable tool for various industries, particularly in training and skill advancement. Surgeon training, for example, is being revolutionized by immersive VR experiences, allowing doctors to practice procedures multiple times before performing them in real-life situations. Other applications include safety training, internal communications, virtual showrooms, and simulations of real-life processes.

The Impact of Apple Vision Pro
One of the most highly anticipated VR devices is the Apple Vision Pro. While not initially targeted at the mass market, the Apple Vision Pro aims to make a significant impact on both the enterprise and consumer fronts. With intuitive user interfaces, facial recognition, and the ability to integrate with existing Apple content, the device offers a unique VR experience. However, its success may heavily depend on the development of a robust content ecosystem.

Challenges and Considerations
The successful adoption of VR in enterprises relies on overcoming several challenges. User experience is key, and companies need to carefully introduce VR to their workforce to avoid overwhelming initial experiences. Additionally, the ever-evolving hardware landscape poses a challenge for IT departments, as they navigate the numerous options available and ensure compatibility and security.

The Future of VR
Looking ahead, VR holds tremendous potential for immersive entertainment and unique storytelling experiences. The combination of AI and VR will play a crucial role in the development of captivating content and enhancing user interactions. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect VR to become an integral part of many industries, creating new opportunities and transforming how we perceive and engage with the digital world.

Conclusion
As we move into 2024, VR stands at a crucial inflection point. While the consumer market continues to evolve, the enterprise adoption of VR is already making significant strides. The upcoming release of devices like the Meta Quest Pro and Apple Vision Pro will further shape the VR landscape. As organizations recognize the value of VR in enhancing training, communication, and productivity, we can expect VR to become an essential component of their digital strategies. With the right approach, VR has the potential to revolutionize industries and provide immersive experiences that were once only imagined in science fiction.

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