Virtual reality VR – overview of devices, development in 2024 and perspectives

Virtual reality (VR) has long ceased to be something fantastical and has become a real tool for business, medicine, and entertainment. Just imagine: by 2030, the VR market will grow to an incredible $227 billion!

It’s simple — technology is evolving at a crazy speed, devices are becoming more accessible, and the range of applications is expanding every year.

But the most interesting thing is that VR is no longer just about games. Did you know that VR is already saving lives in operating rooms and helping treat post-traumatic stress disorder? Or that companies are actively using virtual offices for work?

In this article, I will explain in detail which devices and technologies will be in the spotlight in 2024, and why VR can no longer be ignored. If you want to stay ahead and understand how this can change your business or even daily life — read on.

Overview of Key VR Devices of 2024

These VR devices have greatly expanded the potential applications of the technology across various industries — from gaming and entertainment to medicine and business. Let’s take a look at the three most talked-about devices of this year: Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest 3, and PlayStation VR2.

• Main advantages: Vision Pro delivers the highest resolution and image quality thanks to Micro OLED displays. This allows users to work with the finest details, which is especially useful for professionals in design, medicine, and engineering. The system also supports highly accurate tools for collaboration, making it an excellent solution for business environments and corporate users.
• Best applications: education, medicine, engineering simulations, corporate training, and creative industries.
• Cons: The high price — $3499 — makes the device accessible only to a narrow circle of users, limiting its mass adoption.

• Main advantages: Meta Quest 3 is a fully standalone device, meaning that it does not require a powerful computer or gaming console to use. It features enhanced graphics and high performance, allowing users to enjoy immersive virtual worlds without the need for expensive equipment. Built-in sensors and cameras also make the device convenient for active movement games and interactive applications.
• Best applications: entertainment apps, games, fitness programs, virtual travel, and socialization. Quest 3 is a great choice for those who want to start with VR or are looking for a family-friendly device.
• Cons: While Quest 3 offers an excellent user experience, its graphics capabilities fall short of more expensive solutions like the Apple Vision Pro or PC-connected devices.

• Main advantages: PS VR2 provides an impressive gaming experience thanks to its high refresh rate, 4K resolution, and precise motion tracking. The headset also supports foveated rendering technology, allowing the system to focus graphical power on objects in the user’s center of attention, improving performance and visual quality.
• Best applications: games, especially those with high dynamics, such as first-person shooters, racing simulators, and open-world VR games. VR2 also offers an impressive experience in interactive entertainment apps, such as virtual theaters and concerts.
• Cons: The need to connect to a PlayStation 5 limits the device’s mobility. Additionally, while PC integration is expected, it remains uncertain.

Comparison Table of VR Devices in 2024

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on VR

Thanks to AI integration, virtual worlds are becoming “smarter,” more flexible, and more realistic, significantly improving the user experience. Let’s take a look at how AI is transforming VR across various fields.

1. Personalization of virtual worlds
   One of the most obvious uses of AI in VR is creating dynamic, real-time changing virtual worlds. Machine learning algorithms and AI can analyze user behavior, preferences, and even physiological indicators to tailor content for each specific user. For example, AI can track how long a user lingers on certain objects or analyze their reactions to complex tasks to suggest more suitable challenges or simplified versions.
   In games, this is especially noticeable: AI-controlled characters (so-called NPCs — non-player characters) become more realistic, reacting to players’ actions not according to scripted scenarios but based on behavioral analysis. This allows for the creation of more interesting and “alive” games where every player choice has consequences. AI in VR games can adjust the difficulty in real-time, making gameplay more engaging for both beginners and experienced players.
2. AI and virtual assistants
   AI is also actively used as virtual assistants. Imagine training where a virtual instructor can help at any moment, answering questions and guiding you in the right direction. Such assistants can analyze your actions and offer recommendations for improvement, which is especially important in professional applications, such as training doctors or engineers.
   In educational VR programs, AI-powered virtual assistants help students tackle difficult tasks, suggest the best approaches, and even track their progress. In the future, such assistants could become standard for any learning process, as AI assistants can adapt to the style and pace of each learner.

Real-world examples of AI applications in VR:

• Osso VR: A platform for training surgeons that uses AI to improve the accuracy and speed of learning. It allows doctors to practice complex procedures in a safe virtual environment, while AI analyzes their technique, points out mistakes, and suggests ways to correct them.
• Bravemind: A VR program for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which uses AI to tailor therapy scenarios to each patient. AI analyzes the patient’s reaction to various situations and adjusts the intensity in real-time to optimize the therapeutic process.
• VirtualSpeech: An educational platform that uses AI to teach public speaking and other skills. Users can practice their skills in a virtual environment, while AI provides feedback by analyzing tone of voice, gestures, and speech speed.

The Impact of VR and AR: The Development of Mixed Reality

One of the key technological trends of 2024 was the merging of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, which has been dubbed “mixed reality” (MR). Mixed reality combines elements of the real and virtual worlds, allowing users to interact with virtual objects integrated into the physical environment. This technology promises to revolutionize many industries, from business and education to medicine and engineering.

Unlike pure virtual reality, where users are fully immersed in a digital space, mixed reality keeps the real world as part of the experience. Virtual objects can interact with the physical environment, creating deeper and more realistic interactions.
Examples of mixed reality applications:

1. Commercial applications. Companies are actively using mixed reality to showcase products or services. For example, potential buyers can see how furniture would look in their home using AR or interact with virtual models of cars. This provides a unique experience, allowing customers to make decisions faster and with greater confidence.
   One bright example is the use of Microsoft HoloLens 2, which offers capabilities for visualizing objects in real space.
   For example, in the automotive industry, a virtual model of a car can be “built” and observed in real conditions, significantly simplifying the process of design and product presentation.
2. Engineering and design. In engineering, mixed reality helps specialists interact with virtual models of real objects. For example, engineers can view three-dimensional drawings of equipment in real space, see how components interact with each other, and test their functionality without the need to create physical prototypes.
   Boeing uses mixed reality to design its aircraft, allowing engineers to “immerse” themselves in virtual models of airplanes, test different components, and assemble machines in a virtual environment to reduce production errors.
3. Education. Mixed reality opens up vast opportunities for educational programs. Students can interact with virtual models of real objects — from anatomical models to complex engineering devices. For example, medical students can “disassemble” virtual models of the human body, studying anatomy in detail and seeing how organs function in real-time. This is much more effective than traditional learning through books or video lessons.
   Universities use devices like Meta Quest Pro and HoloLens to help students interact with virtual labs and models. Thanks to mixed reality, learning becomes more interactive and memorable.
4. Medicine. In medical institutions, mixed reality is used for training doctors and surgeons. Virtual anatomical models allow the study of the human body without the need for real patients or cadavers. Virtual surgery simulations using mixed reality help doctors practice, working on complex operations in a safe environment.
   An example is the use of mixed reality in operating rooms, where surgeons can see and analyze three-dimensional patient data overlaid on the real environment, enabling them to make more accurate decisions during surgeries.
   Companies like Medivis have developed solutions that use MR for more accurate surgery planning and improved visualization.

Advantages of mixed reality

• Deeper interaction. Unlike AR, mixed reality allows users to interact with virtual objects as if they were real, making learning, design, and presentations more effective.
• Time and resource savings. Using mixed reality in design and medicine reduces the number of errors and speeds up processes by eliminating the need for physical prototypes or training staff on real objects.
• Wide range of applications. From product presentations in stores to complex scientific research — mixed reality allows for the expansion of conventional boundaries and the reduction of the gap between the real and virtual worlds.

Companies investing in mixed reality development are already laying the foundation for a future where real and virtual worlds will be inextricably linked, opening up new opportunities for interaction, learning, and work.

Applications of VR in Healthcare and Education

Virtual reality (VR) is becoming an important tool not only in entertainment and commercial fields but also in critically important areas such as healthcare and education. Its use is transforming approaches to learning, treatment, and rehabilitation by offering innovative interaction methods that were previously impossible.

VR in Healthcare and Rehabilitation

The medical industry is actively adopting virtual reality technologies to improve treatment quality and train specialists. One of the main advantages of VR is its ability to create a safe environment for learning and rehabilitation, where patients and doctors can interact with virtual objects and models, reducing risks and enhancing procedure effectiveness.

1. Training and preparation of surgeons. Virtual simulators, such as Osso VR, are used to train surgeons and medical personnel. These simulators allow doctors to practice complex surgeries by simulating real scenarios in a safe virtual environment. Thanks to VR, medical professionals can hone their skills without risking patients, significantly improving the quality of medical training and reducing the likelihood of mistakes during real operations.
2. Therapy and treatment of mental disorders. VR is also applied in therapy for patients with mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders, phobias, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For example, the Bravemind program uses VR to treat veterans with PTSD, allowing patients to immerse themselves in controlled virtual scenarios, helping them process traumatic situations and reduce stress levels. Such programs enable therapy to be conducted in a safe, regulated environment, making treatment more comfortable and effective.
3. Physical therapy and rehabilitation. VR is also actively used for patient recovery after injuries and surgeries. Virtual trainers can adapt to the physical condition of the patient and offer individualized rehabilitation programs. This helps speed up recovery and gives doctors the ability to monitor the treatment process, tracking the patient’s progress in real-time. Virtual exercises stimulate patients’ motivation by gamifying the recovery process, making rehabilitation more effective.

VR in Education

Virtual reality technologies are changing educational processes by creating interactive learning environments that help students better absorb material and practice complex disciplines.

1. Virtual classes and simulations. VR allows students and schoolchildren to learn in virtual classrooms where they can interact with educational materials in a three-dimensional environment. For example, virtual labs enable students to study anatomy or chemical processes by simulating complex experiments that may be difficult or dangerous to conduct in real life. Medical students can use VR to perform virtual surgeries, while engineers can design complex mechanisms and systems.
2. Educational simulations and trainers. Virtual trainers are widely used in technical education. For example, in aviation and mechanical engineering, VR systems help practice scenarios that users may face in real life. The technology allows for the simulation of complex situations, helping to better prepare for work and reduce the number of mistakes. This is particularly important in professions where mistakes can cost lives, such as piloting or surgery.
3. Education accessibility. VR provides access to education for people who, for some reason, cannot attend traditional educational institutions. Students from remote regions can receive quality education by participating in virtual classes and studying through programs available from anywhere in the world. This makes education more inclusive and accessible, reducing geographical and social barriers.

Business Applications and Virtual Workspaces

In the era of remote work and company globalization, virtual workspaces are becoming increasingly in demand. Companies are increasingly turning to virtual reality (VR) technologies to create fully functional offices in a digital format, where employees can interact as if they were in the same physical room. This opens up new possibilities for collaboration, training, and improving business process efficiency.
Virtual offices: a new reality for business
Platforms such as Spatial, VirBELA, and Horizon Workrooms provide companies with tools to create virtual offices. These solutions allow employees to hold meetings, presentations, and even team-building events in a fully virtual environment. In such an office, you can organize work meetings, call colleagues, and collaborate on projects without leaving home. This is especially useful for international teams, where physical distance between employees can be a barrier to effective communication.

Virtual simulations for employee training
VR is also actively used for employee training and development. Virtual simulations create a safe environment where workers can hone their skills and react to various scenarios. This is especially relevant for high-risk professions such as construction, medicine, or the oil and gas industry, where mistakes can have serious consequences.

Benefits of using VR in business

• Time and resource savings. Virtual workspaces allow meetings and training to be held without employees needing to be physically present. This reduces travel, office rental, and event organization costs. For example, companies can easily hold global meetings and presentations, bringing together teams from different countries. Increased engagement. VR creates a sense of full presence, improving communication quality between employees. Unlike standard video conferences, where participants may feel disconnected from the process, virtual offices allow people to feel part of the team. This is especially important for creative teams working on projects in real-time.
• Interactive learning and skill development. Virtual simulations allow skills to be practiced in a safe environment, where mistakes won’t lead to real consequences. This significantly improves the quality of training and helps employees adapt more quickly to new conditions. Such training is especially useful in high-risk professions where training on real objects can be expensive and dangerous.
• Global accessibility. With VR, geography is no longer a limitation. Employees can be located in different parts of the world but still work on the same project in a virtual environment. This is especially useful for international corporations like Accenture and PwC, where distributed teams need to collaborate effectively.

Conclusion: Prospects for VR in the Coming Years

Innovations in standalone headsets, AI integration, and the merging with augmented reality have opened up vast opportunities for business, education, healthcare, and many other industries.

As technology improves and the cost of devices decreases, virtual reality will become an integral part of our daily lives. Integration with AI, AR, and the metaverse promises even more opportunities to create unique and personalized virtual worlds that will impact us not only in entertainment but also in professional and personal life.