# Virtual Reality

## What is Virtual Reality?

Virtual reality (VR) is a simulated experience that employs 3D near-eye displays and pose tracking to give the user an immersive feel of a virtual world. Applications of virtual reality include entertainment (particularly video games), education (such as medical, safety, or military training), research and business (such as virtual meetings). VR is one of the key technologies in the reality-virtuality continuum. As such, it is different from other digital visualization solutions, such as augmented virtuality and augmented reality.

Currently, standard virtual reality systems use either virtual reality headsets or multi-projected environments to generate some realistic images, sounds, and other sensations that simulate a user's physical presence in a virtual environment. A person using virtual reality equipment is able to look around the artificial world, move around in it, and interact with virtual features or items. The effect is commonly created by VR headsets consisting of a head-mounted display with a small screen in front of the eyes but can also be created through specially designed rooms with multiple large screens. Virtual reality typically incorporates auditory and video feedback but may also allow other types of sensory and force feedback through haptic technology.

## Difference between Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

### What is AR?

Augmented reality (AR), also known as mixed reality (MR), is a technology that overlays real-time 3D-rendered computer graphics onto a portion of the real world through a display, such as a handheld device or head-mounted display. This experience is seamlessly interwoven with the physical world such that it is perceived as an immersive aspect of the real environment. In this way, augmented reality alters one's ongoing perception of a real-world environment, compared to virtual reality, which aims to completely replace the user's real-world environment with a simulated one. Augmented reality is typically visual, but can span multiple sensory modalities, including auditory, haptic, and somatosensory.

### Difference between AR and VR:

| **Augmented reality (AR)** | **Virtual reality (VR)** |
|-----------------------------|---------------------------|
| AR is a combination of real and virtual worlds | VR creates entire virtual world |
| It lets people interact with both real and virtual worlds and distinguish between the two | It’s hard to differentiate between what is real and what is not |
| Generally, it is experienced by using a smartphone, laptop or tablet | This is experienced by wearing VR headsets (mounted or handheld-controlled) |
| The purpose of AR is to enhance experience by adding virtual components such as digital images and graphics as a new layer of interaction with the real world | The purpose of VR is to create this world that is completely computer-generated |
| Users remain in the real world | Users are transported into a new world |
| It adds relevant information to the existing real-world view | It incorporates heavy graphics to create a virtual environment |
| It is mostly used for demonstrations, interior designing and mapping | It is used in games, medicine, military, etc |
| Users maintain a sense of presence in the real world | Senses of users are under the control of the system |
| Users can move, rotate, scale and manipulate 3D objects in real world | Users can move, rotate and scale 3D objects in virtual world |
| Users are present at the location of experience | Users are not at the location of the experience |
| Users can physically move in the environment | Users cannot physically move in the environment |

## Trends in VR

In the past few years, several emerging VR trends have gained popularity, paving the way for the future of Virtual Reality. Some of these include:

- **Wireless VR:**
One of the most prominent trends is the widespread adoption of wireless VR headsets that offer freedom of movement. These advanced devices ensure a highly realistic experience without the hassle of cables.

- **Haptic feedback and eye-tracking:**
Eye-tracking lets you navigate more naturally, reduces motion sickness, and makes you feel more present in virtual worlds. Haptic feedback adds realistic touch and texture to virtual objects, making your interactions feel more real.

- **Artificial Intelligence (AI):**
AI algorithms create more realistic non-playable characters in gaming, facilitating personalized learning experiences in education and enhancing virtual training simulations.

- **VR in education and training:**
VR has been increasingly adopted in educational and professional training settings, allowing for realistic hands-on learning experiences without real-world risks.

- **Social VR:**
The rise of social VR platforms, such as VRChat and AltspaceVR, has enabled users to connect in shared virtual spaces, fostering a sense of presence.

- **VR in healthcare:**
Virtual Reality offers new possibilities for patient care and well-being in pain management, physical therapy, and mental health treatment.

These dominant trends have shaped the VR landscape, setting the stage for the exciting developments and innovations we can expect down the road.

Few other trends include:

- Affordable VR hardware for the masses:

With competitive pricing and subscription models, the future of VR headsets and content is such that they’re now within reach of a broader audience. One of the most significant shifts in VR hardware is the rise of standalone headsets. Devices such as Meta Quest 3 and Pico 5 have eliminated the need for external PCs or consoles, offering all-in-one solutions that deliver high-performance VR experiences.
These wireless, portable devices are making VR more accessible and convenient for both casual users and enterprise applications, without compromising on quality. This trend is crucial for mainstream adoption and will drive further innovation and investment.

- Multi-sensory technology on VR devices:

2024 is seeing a continued focus on haptic feedback and other sensory technologies that enhance immersion in VR experiences. Haptic gloves, suits, and even full-body rigs are becoming more affordable, allowing users to feel touch, pressure, and movement within virtual environments. This new Virtual Reality technology is particularly valuable in industries like gaming, healthcare, and training, where the sense of touch can add a critical layer of realism and engagement.

- Ultra-realistic graphics and immersive worlds:

Driven by VR advancements in graphics processing, virtual environments are becoming more detailed and lifelike. These visual leaps are allowing for more immersive experiences, where users can explore virtual worlds with photorealistic textures, lighting, and high frame rates. Combining all this with full-body tracking, users can now fully embody their avatars, enhancing the overall immersion.

- Growth of VR in entertainment and media:

In entertainment, VR is used to create immersive experiences in gaming, movies, museum tours, and live events. For example, in the film industry VR creates virtual movie experiences, such as virtual tours of sets and behind-the-scenes footage. In the media industry, in VR you can provide virtual news broadcasts and educational programs.

- VR fitness and wellness boom:

Immersive workouts are transforming how we approach fitness, blurring the lines between gaming and exercise. Platforms such as Supernatural, FitXR, and Holofit are altering workouts into immersive, gamified experiences. Users can now box in virtual arenas, cycle through futuristic landscapes, or meditate in serene, otherworldly environments.
These VR fitness applications offer personalized coaching and progress tracking, enhancing motivation and consistency. As more people look for engaging ways to stay active, VR fitness is becoming a popular alternative to traditional exercise routines.

- Advanced therapy applications:

Healthcare professionals use VR exposure therapy to treat various phobias, pain management, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety disorders, allowing patients to confront their fears in a controlled environment, potentially decreasing the need for pain medication. For cognitive rehabilitation, VR applications help patients recovering from strokes or brain injuries to relearn daily tasks in a safe setting.

- AI integration in VR:

The use of Artificial Intelligence in VR content creation is expanding dramatically in 2024. In 2023, the global AI in VR and AR market was valued at $39.2 billion. However, with over 10.8 million Virtual Reality devices sold, this figure could reach significant growth.
AI is being used to generate procedural environments, create intelligent non-player characters, and even design entire worlds autonomously. This trend is allowing for more dynamic and personalized VR experiences, where virtual worlds can evolve based on user behavior. In gaming, tourism, and virtual retail, AI is enabling experiences that feel more organic and responsive, pushing the limits of what’s possible in VR storytelling and design.

- Emergence of VR in education and learning:

The use of Virtual Reality in education is a major trend in 2024, with schools and universities adopting the latest VR technology to create immersive learning environments. Whether it’s a virtual simulation of a historical event or a virtual exploration of anatomical structures, VR is enhancing the way students learn. Medical schools, for example, are using VR for diagnosis training, allowing students to practice procedures with a virtual patient or separate organs.

- Expansion of Virtual Reality in the workplace

VR is increasingly being adopted by businesses for more than just entertainment. The new Virtual Reality technology helps improve employee training outcomes, offers remote collaboration possibilities, and assists users in acquiring new specialized skills. VR creates immersive training simulations and virtual walkthroughs, enabling global real-time collaboration for complex industrial sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, and aviation.
One brilliant example is a VR training program to master hard skills in engineering, mechanics, and aviation. This occupational training software helps employees acquire new job skills, such as performing propeller inspections, engine repairs, brake replacements, etc., allowing for repeated practice without real-world risks. The results show an 84% engagement rate and 67% knowledge retention during VR training, proving its effectiveness and enabling global reach.

- Integration of Augmented Reality :

2024 has seen a convergence of AR and VR technologies, creating Mixed Reality experiences. While VR creates fully immersive virtual worlds, AR overlays digital information onto the real world. AR integration, via smart glasses, heads-up displays, and mobile apps, expands VR’s potential, fueled by VR advancements in spatial computing. This allows for real-time interaction with the physical environment, creating transformative applications across various sectors and blurring the lines between reality and virtuality.

Overall, these trends shaping VR highlight not just the technology’s potential, but its growing influence across industries.

## The Technology Stack for VR in Manufacturing

| Technologies, frameworks and libraries | Unity, Unreal Engine, Oculus SDK, Oculus Quest 1,2, iOS/Android SDK, Web VR, React VR, Google VR |
|----------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 2D/3D design | Autodesk Maya, Blender, Autodesk 3ds Max, Substance Painter, Photoshop |
| Front-end | HTML, JavaScript, Vue js, Angular, React, C++, C# |
| Back-end | Python, Java, .NET, Java, Go, Node.js, PHP |
| Cloud Services | Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services |
| Databases | MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server, Azure SQL Database, Oracle, PostgreSQL, MongoDB |
| Hardware | Google Cardboard/Daydream, PlayStation VR, Oculus, VIVE |

## Top 10 Augmented & Virtual Reality Companies In India

**1. Simbott**

Simbott is a leading provider of VR, AR, and MR-based software solutions. They have delivered 150+ projects till now in India and all over the world.
Their Virtual Reality Simulation is incredible. Their Welding Simulator & Spray Painting Simulator are the most popular products.
Simbott has a team of highly skilled professionals who have rich experience in developing customized VR, AR, and MR-based applications.
They use the latest technologies and tools to develop high-quality and interactive software solutions.
Simbott’s products are used by leading companies in the manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. We’re also a complete best-mixed reality company.
Simbott is a trusted name when it comes to VR, AR, and MR-based software development solutions.

**2. Immersafety**

Immersafety is the second-best AR & VR Safety Training Software Solutions Company in India. With a proven track record of 150+ projects across 12+ global locations, they are dedicated to revolutionizing workplace safety through immersive virtual reality experiences. Our cutting-edge modules, powered by the latest VR technology, enable risk-free training, elevating safety skills and surpassing Industry 4.0 standards. Choose Immersafety for a safer tomorrow and a competitive edge in safety training.

**3. Imaginate**

In 2016, Imaginate started as an Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) enterprise that provided custom-made 3D content for immersive training and support for various equipment and processes.
Since then, they have been consistently rated as one of the top agencies by Gartner, Forester, and IDC.
In addition, they have extended their support through AR services to various industries including Automotive, Aviation, Construction, FMCG, Healthcare, Banking, and Manufacturing.
Right from the start, their focus has always been on providing the best quality possible and ensuring customer satisfaction.

**4. Parallax Labs**

Established in 2018, Parallax Labs is a Mumbai-based startup that uses AR, VR, and MR technology for the defence and enterprise sectors.
They are the first company in India to provide such solutions and aim to become the best AR company in India. The company has played a significant role in improving practices at the Hindustan Unilever plant.
Parallax Labs is positively impacting the industry in India and is poised to become the leading virtual reality software company.

**5. Tata ELXSI**

As the world increasingly moves towards an immersive experience, TATA ELXSI strives to become a key player in the field through innovation.
They assist customers in their quest to find creative solutions to their problems and bring meaningful connections and experiences.
With the help of their cutting-edge technology, they can create stunning visual effects that are realistic and captivating.
In addition, they are constantly working on new ways to improve the user experience. As a result, TATA ELXSI is quickly gaining recognition as a leading provider of immersive experiences.

**6. PlayShifu**

PlayShifu is an Augmented Reality based toy company that brings in interactive toys and games that are heavily rooted in AR technology.
By providing educational playing experiences to the kids, PlayShifu aims to revolutionize the use of AR within the paradigm of child growth and development.
They cater to kids ages 4-12. Their carefully crafted AR-based toys and games are crucial in developing skills like critical thinking, geography, engineering, etc.
What sets them apart is their focus on delivering an engaging and enriching experience for the kids through their products.
The company has been applauded for its innovative approach toward child development and growth.
Their products are not only entertaining but also enriching, making them a hit among kids and parents alike.
If you’re looking for a unique present for a special kid in your life, look no further than PlayShifu!

**7. Quy Technologies**

Quy Technology Pvt Ltd is a leading mobile app development company that has delivered over 350 projects to clients all over the world.
Founded in 2010, they are based in India but have clients in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, UAE, and Europe.
They use their expertise in AR, VR, and MR to expand the digital footprints of their clients.
They focus on areas like eCommerce, Healthcare, Training & Development, Retail, Real Estate, Entertainment, Education, Manufacturing, FMCG, etc.
Their goal is to provide innovative solutions that help their clients achieve their business objectives.
They have a team of experienced professionals who are passionate about their work and committed to providing the best possible results for their clients.
If you are looking for a mobile app development company that can help you take your business to the next level, Quy Technology Pvt Ltd is the perfect partner for you.

**8. Trezi**

Trezi is an AR software company that is one of the top 10 AR startups in India. Trezi is based in Noida and was founded by Gautam Tewari in 2014.
It is an immersive virtual reality product that allows you to experience designs with the help of 3D modelling software & architecture software. Trezi lets architects showcase their building plans using AR.
This gives them a competitive advantage as they can show their clients what the final product will look like without having to build it first.
With its cutting-edge technology and user-friendly interface, Trezi is well on its way to revolutionizing the industry.

**9. Simulanis**

Simulanis is one of the top AR companies in India, providing AR-based solutions for field force productivity.
The company is also a multi-award-winning Ed-tech company, developing Augmented, Mixed, and Virtual Reality software applications for Education, Skilling, and Industrial Training.
The headquarters is in Delhi, India. Simulanis has a strong track record in delivering quality AR solutions and has been recognized by leading industry analysts.
Simulanis is committed to delivering innovation and value to its customers and partners through its continuous investment in research and development.
The company’s products are designed to improve productivity, increase safety, and reduce costs.

**10. Jadooz**

Jadooz is a virtual reality cinema theatre and solutions provider in India.
Jadooz is a chain of multiplexes that provides a 50-80 seater cinema, virtual reality center, gaming pods, and a cafe that allows users to enjoy films, VR experiences, and VR gaming.
It was founded in 2017 by Rahul Nehra and Shobana Chandrakumar. The company has its headquarters in Chennai.
Jadooz has a team of highly skilled professionals who are passionate about providing the best cinematic experience possible.
Jadooz is quickly becoming the go-to destination for people looking for a unique and exhilarating experience.