Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that creates an immersive experience for users by simulating a 3D environment in which they can interact.
The term virtual reality was first used in 1980 by computer scientist Jaron Lanier, who coined the term to describe a computer-generated simulation of a physical environment.
Lanier’s work in VR began in the late 1970s when he developed the first VR system, known as the “Sword of Damocles,” which used a head-mounted display (HMD) to track the user’s movements and provide a realistic view of their surroundings.
Lanier’s work in VR was influenced by his interest in computer graphics and the development of 3D modeling technology.
Despite Lanier’s pioneering work, the term virtual reality was not widely used until the mid-1990s. At that time, the term gained popularity as new VR systems were developed, including the Oculus Rift and the HTC Vive. These systems provided users with a more immersive experience by incorporating motion tracking technology and high-resolution displays.
In conclusion, Jaron Lanier is considered the inventor of the term virtual reality. His pioneering work in computer graphics and 3D modeling led to the development of the first VR system and the use of the term to describe a simulated environment. Today, virtual reality continues to evolve and is used in a variety of applications, including gaming, education, and healthcare.