Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that allows users to experience a simulated environment as if they were really there. The concept of virtual reality dates back to the 1960s, but it was not until the late 20th century that the technology became more advanced and accessible to consumers.
The first VR system was called the Sword of Damocles and was developed by Ivan Sutherland in 1968. It used a head-mounted display (HMD) to track the user’s movements and provide them with a 3D environment to explore. However, the technology was bulky and expensive, and it took several decades for VR to become more mainstream.
In the 1980s, researchers at the University of Utah developed the first VR headset, called the “Cybersuit.” This headset used a stereoscopic display to create a more realistic experience for users. In the 1990s, several companies started developing consumer-grade VR systems, such as the Nintendo Virtual Boy and the Sega Genesis 3D glasses.
However, it was not until the early 2010s that VR really took off. The release of the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive in 2016 marked a major breakthrough in VR technology, making it more affordable and accessible to consumers. Since then, VR has continued to evolve, with new devices like the Samsung Gear VR and the PlayStation VR entering the market.
In conclusion, virtual reality first emerged in the 1960s, but it was not until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that the technology became more advanced and accessible to consumers. Today, VR continues to evolve and is used in a variety of applications, including gaming, education, and training.