VR

When Virtual Reality Became a Thing: A Timeline and Overview

Virtual reality (VR) technology has come a long way since its inception, but it’s hard to pinpoint exactly when it became a thing. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of VR, its key milestones, and how it has evolved over time.

The concept of VR dates back to the 1960s, when researchers at MIT first developed the idea of an immersive, computer-generated environment that could be experienced through a head-mounted display (HMD). However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that VR technology really started to take off.

One of the earliest and most influential VR systems was the Sword of Damocles, developed in 1968 by Ivan Sutherland. This system used a large, rotating display and a projector to create an immersive experience for the user. However, it was bulky and difficult to use, and its impact on the industry was limited.

In the 1990s, several companies developed VR systems that were more user-friendly and accessible. One of the most successful of these was the Virtual reality mask (VR mask), developed in 1992 by the Japanese company Sony. The VR mask used a series of mirrors to create an illusion of depth and movement, and it quickly gained popularity among gamers and early adopters.

Another key milestone in VR history was the development of the Oculus Rift, which was launched in 2012. The Oculus Rift used a high-resolution display and advanced tracking technology to create a highly immersive experience for users. It quickly became one of the most popular VR systems on the market, and its success paved the way for the mainstream adoption of VR technology.

Today, VR technology has come a long way, with advances in display resolution, tracking technology, and content creation making it more accessible and immersive than ever before. From gaming to training simulations and beyond, VR is changing the way we experience the world.

In conclusion, virtual reality technology has come a long way since its inception in the 1960s. With advances in display resolution, tracking technology, and content creation, VR is more accessible and immersive than ever before. Whether you’re a gamer, a developer, or simply someone who wants to experience something new, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of virtual reality.