THE EVOLUTION OF VR

A JOURNEY THROUGH TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS AND IMPACT ON SOCIETY

- SADAT OSMAN

Virtual Reality (VR) has come a long way since its conceptualization. Born from the dreams of visionaries and innovators, it has evolved into a transformative technology with applications in various industries. This article delves into the fascinating journey of VR, exploring its early roots, the challenges it faced, and the groundbreaking advancements that brought it to the forefront of modern technology. From gaming and entertainment to education, healthcare, and beyond, VR has left an indelible mark on society and continues to shape the world we live in today.

Early Roots of VR

The inception of VR can be traced back to Ivan Sutherland's groundbreaking concept of an "Ultimate Display" in 1965. He envisioned a technology that could immerse users in artificial environments, presenting a vision of a computer-generated world that could be explored and interacted with. Morton Heilig's Sensorama, developed in the 1950s, provided an early glimpse of immersive experiences by combining visuals, sounds, and even smells to create a more engaging cinematic experience. Additionally, in 1968, Ivan Sutherland further pushed the boundaries of VR with the invention of the first head-mounted display (HMD) called the "Sword of Damocles, although its capabilities were limited compared to modern HMDs.

Dormancy and the Resurgence of VR