CSA Online by Alan Breznick Getting Real About Virtual Reality Let’s get real about virtual reality (VR) VR is not just about fun and games aimed at youngsters anymore. In fact, like their younger counterparts, older Canadians are increasingly tapping into VR and its close kin – augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) – to do all sorts of things which they could not do easily before. With the aid of broadband connections and specially designed headsets from Apple, Meta and Google, snowbirds can use VR to tour historic sites, explore the oceans, compete in sports, visit faraway family and friends, play games, attend concerts and shows, enjoy nature and pursue new hobbies – all from the comfort of home. All of these things can help people enjoy more stimulating, engaging, entertaining and even exciting lives. What exactly is virtual reality? VR is a computer-generated, three-dimensional (3D) environment featuring scenes and objects that appear to be real, usually viewed wearing a special headset that allows users to feel immersed in their virtual surroundings. As a result, people can explore and interact with the virtual world in a way that approximates reality. AR and MR are more limited versions of VR. As its name implies, AR augments the real world by overlaying digital elements such as images, videos or 3D objects on top of the reality. MR, true to its name, mixes the features of both VR and AR, allowing digital elements to exist and interact with the real world. For the purposes of this article, we’ll focus on VR – the best-known and most popular immersive technology. VR is gaining steam With the technology behind it constantly improving and the number of available services and applications continually expanding, VR is quickly moving into the mainstream. Although industry experts’ projections are all over the map, they agree on one thing: All foresee VR use by every population segment growing rapidly over the rest of the decade, including use by people 65 and older. It’s easy to see why, as will become clear. So, what can I do with VR? Just about anything you can think of. With an estimated 200 or more quality apps now available and that number growing rapidly, all you need is a VR headset and a VR-ready computer (check with the manufacturer, who may label it VR-ready for meeting processor, memory, video and other requirements) and you are good to go. Let’s run through some prime examples of free or inexpensive VR apps already available today. (As with any app, check compatibility with your computer.) Roam the Planet Want to see all of the world’s great sites from your couch? Google Earth VR is one of the most popular and engaging VR travel apps around, enabling users to freely fly around a realistic-looking 3D model of the entire planet, zooming in and out and even finding historical views. Another way to roam the world virtually is through Wander. Tapping into Google Street View data, this VR app allows users to explore locations as if they were walking or driving right through them. It acts as a nice complement to the broader Google Earth experience. Bask in Nature Feel like basking in the beauty of nature? Both Ocean Rift and Nature Treks VR have you covered there. Ocean Rift allows users to explore coral reefs, mangrove swamps and Arctic waters, as well as to swim virtually alongside dolphins, whales, sharks and even prehistoric creatures. Nature Treks is a bit more land-based, enabling users to explore tropical beaches, underwater oceans and dozens of animal species and habitats. Enjoy Sports Yearn to go fishing? Real VR Fishing could be for you. This VR simulation lets anglers virtually fish for more than 150 different species in 95 scenic locations throughout the world, primarily in the U.S., Japan and South Korea. It also supports multiple players, so that you can fish with friends and family. Miss hitting the links? Walkabout Mini Golf VR might fit the bill. It offers up to eight beautiful, realistic-looking 18-hole virtual courses on which players can test their skills and compete against each other. As many as eight golfers can play at one time. Be Social Seeking ways to connect with distant friends and family members? Alcove provides a VR family room where people can meet and greet, play games, explore different settings, share activities and even enjoy various virtual adventures together. Another popular VR app – Rec Room – serves as an easy-to-use virtual party room. Users can get together to play tons of free games, build new objects or just hang out with others. 44 | www.snowbirds.org
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