OrlandoiX CES 2017 VR and AR Recap
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) demonstrations stole the show at the 2017 Consumer Electronic Show (CES) this past weekend. Companies such as Samsung, Facebook and HTC provided a firsthand look at how VR and AR technologies are continuing to advance.
While there were a lot of news and updates released, here are some trends and standout points from the show.
More Players in the VR Headset Game
Consumers rejoice, more companies are seriously investing time, money and development into VR. In addition to companies such as HTC and Oculus who have built up the VR industry, some heavy hitters have entered the field.
Companies such as Microsoft, Lenovo, FOVE and Pico demonstrated their takes on VR headsets. Whether it’s a differing price point then what’s already out there or a unique trait that no other headset has, these companies are hoping to differentiate themselves from the rest of the crowd.
Headphones, Attachments, Cameras…Boots and Candles?
Most would agree that VR headsets have made immersion much easier. However, some companies are taking that one step further – some in the literal sense.
While VR headset completely immerse its user visually, Audeze and JBL hope to immerse users audibly with headphones specifically developed for VR. The hope is to create a “-more realistic VR experience overall.”
And while sound and visuals have been implemented in VR since the beginning, users haven’t had their senses of touch and smell immersed in the virtual environment. However, that’s about to change.
Companies like HTC and Taclim are hoping to further immerse players through actively engaging them in ways other than swinging a controller around.
The HTC Tracker adds instant motion control to any object once attached. With simulators that mimic sports such as baseball and tennis, users can now use equipment they may already own to create a more lifelike immersion.
Another innovation of VR that was demonstrated at CES 2017 was the future development of VR cameras. Humaneyes Technologies’ Vuze camera has 3D audio support and is pitched toward those who wish to create VR content. Insta360 announced its Insta360 Pro, which features an 8k-resolution is suitable for livestreaming and is aimed at anyone looking for a high-quality camera to meet their demands.
Taclim is taking immersion one step further, literally. The Taclim VR boots from Cerevo are not only tracked in a 3D space, but can also provide tactile feedback. Sensors in the boots will transmit physical sensations appropriate to what is displayed in a virtual space. If you’re walking through a forest in VR, that’s what’ll feel like even if you’re actually walking on hardwood.
Now, take that immersion even further and imagine being able to smell what is being seen. Online geek merchandise retailer Merchoid hopes to fully indulge their consumers’ sense of smell with the aromatic scents of…well, old timber and blood. The officially licensed Resident Evil 7 4D candle further tricks the senses into thinking you’re in the game. Perhaps this is an accessory for those with a bit of courage on their side.
Great innovations in AR presented itself at CES 2017. While the public became more aware of AR through the recent success of apps like Pokémon GO, the true limits of AR haven’t been reached.
Gap and Google demonstrated how AR could help shoppers decide on outfits with a digital mannequin that allows them to put different articles of clothing on at the same time.
HoloLamp uses a combination of a projector, video cameras and the Unity gaming software to bring out animated images without the use of glasses.
Lumus showcased a new set of AR glasses that have a 55-degree field of view that also allows users to wear their prescription glasses under them.
Merge VR is bringing AR to children through the HOLO CUBE. QR codes and patterns on the sides of the box are read by a phone’s camera, and with the use of the Merge VR headset, a variety of puzzles, games and objects are seen and can be interacted with.
VR and AR definitely had its time to shine at CES 2017, and it shined brightly. Even when taking out companies specifically focused on VR and AR, others like ASUS and Dell made sure to implement VR and AR into their products and demonstrations.
Samsung confirmed that they had sold 5 million Samsung Gear VR headset since its launch at their press event at CES 2017. This is a clear indication that VR and AR is the next step on immersing consumers, and getting them committed to a company’s brand and their products.
