Exploring the World of Virtual Reality in 2023: Is it Worth It to make the plunge?

Is VR still the next big thing or does it remain just another tech luxury? Let's break it down.

The Experience: Anyone who hasn't tried it themselves has heard that VR is truly mind-boggling, no doubt and it really is! But consider this: Your trusty desktop, laptop, or mobile device already offers all of the functionality (and are built upon an established ecosystem, which VR still doesn't have yet); making the transition to VR a bit of a bumpy learning curve.

Financial Aspect: Entry-level VR costs around $500+ for the headset and some software. Yet, to truly unlock the potential for work and play, it has to be considered as an add-on to your existing tech lineup, that like your computer and smartphone (and tablet?) will also require upgrading every few years.

Usability: VR requires time to get comfortable with both in terms of hardware and the software intricacies. Plus, you need physical space to fully enjoy it, which is a factor often overlooked. *Yes, seated VR is possible and has its uses, but not having the ability to experience it in an open space severely limits the functionality and enjoyment.

Time Commitment: With busy lives, dedicating time to VR can be a challenge. But like with any new thing, once you've surmounted the learning curve, the rewards are substantial and you will have become "VR Ready". *Having either a friend or hiring a tutor who are already proficient to help in this greatly reduces the barrier

What's in it for You? The main question asked. If you have the means and space, VR can offer unparalleled experiences, from immersive gaming to connecting with friends worldwide or supercharging your productivity.

For me personally, it's about forging genuine connections, whether attending workshops, sharing a virtual round of mini-golf, or simply catching up with friends in a movie theatre or other venue. VR primarily bridges the gap between the standard phonecall/facetime and being able to meet up in person, offering an intimate interaction second only to physical presence.

Real-World Applications: If you can meet the requirements above, VR finds its place in tech enthusiasts' hearts, in education and training teams, building and maintaining genuine personal connections, enabling unique social gatherings, facilitating incredible business meetings (down with teams meetings!), and enabling distraction-free productivity. In the rapidly evolving world of tech, VR isn't just a luxury; it's a glimpse into the future of human interaction and experiences.

There's no doubt in my mind that it will replace our phone and computer one day and if none of the requirements above are roadblocks, then it is definitely worth already committing to in 2023

Have any questions about any specifics of any of the points above? Please ask in the comments below!