There is likely no industry that couldn’t stand to benefit from using virtual reality (VR) in business.
While there’s a whole range of applications and use cases for virtual reality, at the moment, workforce training is the most popular use in business. This is unsurprising considering that VR is an unrivalled learning tool as it combines different media like audio and video and lets people interact with the training material in real-time.
In certain sectors like mining or oil refining, virtual training significantly minimises the risks posed in that environment.
Virtual training also eliminates the potential travel and logistical costs, enabling businesses to hold group-based training sessions with participants from around the world.
So, how does this apply to different industries?
One example is how field engineers were traditionally sent on-site with a very limited timeframe to learn everything about their work, like flying someone out in a helicopter to an oil rig. They have to learn a whole range of procedures and handle different equipment while doing this.
Virtual training can replicate this scenario and allow your team members to quickly absorb necessary information through immersive virtual environments.
Healthcare is another industry that can greatly benefit from this technology, enabling students to learn about procedures without a cadaver or live patient.
Even the real estate industry can use VR headsets. This tech helps property developers and builders to market and sell a space before they even start construction. VR offers prospective buyers immersive experiences that you can’t get any other way before it’s built.
Top 5 VR and MR headsets to buy in 2024 for business
As experts in virtual and mixed reality, we can help businesses find the headset that best suits their needs.
We’ve shortlisted the best headsets you can utilise in your business and discuss the benefits (and potential drawbacks).
1. Meta Quest 3
The Meta Quest 3, which is developed by Facebook’s parent company Meta, is the brand’s most versatile headset yet.
It includes full colour pass-through, which allows for mixed reality, creating more possibilities for how you can use the Meta Quest 3 headset. It has 10 times more pixels than Meta Quest 2, enabling you to stay grounded in the real world while you work on a project with the headset.
Meta Quest 3 also provides an accurate depth project and room mapping, enabling you to move freely in your space while interacting with the virtual objects and characters in the room. The headset also comes with two Touch Plus controllers, which allow for fine-tuned precision and a natural sensation so that it feels like you’re handling a real tool when training or tweaking 3D designs as if you were sculpting in your hands.
However, there are some potential drawbacks with the Meta Quest 3 that you need to consider, depending on the kind of work you need to accomplish with your VR headset. According to Meta, the battery life is 2.2 hours, though this can vary depending on your device settings, usage and wireless settings. It can drop down to 1.5 hours if you’re running productivity software with an active wireless connection to your PC.
Meta Quest 3 also lacks eye-tracking technology, which can limit the visual realism and the adaptive experiences in VR.
2. Apple Vision Pro
As the brand’s latest release, Apple Vision Pro uses VisionOS, which is the brand’s first spatial operating system, allowing you to control this headset with your eyes, hands and voice.
Its operating system allows you to use your apps without boundaries — literally. With VisionOS, your apps can fill the space around you, and they can be moved, scaled to the perfect space and even cast shadows. You can look at an app as it is displayed in your space, tap your fingers to select and use the virtual keyboard or dictation to type.
Unlike Meta Quest 3, Apple Vision Pro has unbelievable eye-tracking technology, making the VR experience immersive and realistic. The headset also includes dual-driver audio pods, which are positioned next to each ear to deliver personalised sound while still letting you hear what’s around you.
Because of its features, Apple Vision Pro can potentially replace the smartphone someday with its seamless interface. Its two major drawbacks so far can be boiled down to its aesthetics. The external battery pack is bulky and unwieldy, which is incongruous with Apple’s sleek and minimalist style. Apple Vision Pro’s “EyeSight” feature, which allows onlookers to see your eyes, can also be a turn-off.
3. PICO 4 Enterprise
PICO is one of the two leading brands on our list that is geared towards providing headsets in the business and enterprise market. As a global brand, PICO supports businesses across the globe by providing customer support with local, integrated sales teams in the area.
Now, PICO is taking its VR headsets to the next level with PICO 4 Enterprise. This is the first PICO headset to feature precise face, eye and hand tracking. It includes four simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM) cameras around its thin frame, enabling high-precision tracking and mapping of surrounding environments.
In terms of potential drawbacks, you will need a PICO account to use the headset, though only basic information is needed, so not a lot of personal information is stored. It’s also better to use Bluetooth headphones rather than built-in speakers for optimal audio performance.
4. HTC Vive Focus 3
As the first one to come out with VR headsets, HTC is the second brand on our list that’s leading in business-centric VR headsets. Vive Focus 3 features high-fidelity hand tracking, remote collaboration and business streaming.
You have the option to use the controllers, or you can activate 26-point hand tracking to navigate the menu with your hand. It also allows you to see your virtual surroundings more naturally, with up to 120 degrees wide field of view.
When it comes to Vive Focus 3’s disadvantages, its price might be its biggest drawback as it currently retails for USD 1,300. Another potential drawback is its fairly average controller ergonomics (which, at its price point, you’d expect to be much better).
5. Samsung HMD Odyssey
Samsung joins the Windows mixed reality space with HMD Odyssey, which runs on Windows 10. It comes with built-in headphones with spatial audio and paired controllers, making it the most complete device in the MR family.
When it comes to its potential drawback, HMD Odyssey’s design is somewhat uninspired, with a purely matte black design, when you consider its price (at USD 500) and compare it to other headsets in this list.
There are a lot of new releases from global brands this year, and it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use for your business.
Not sure which VR or MR headset is best for you? Contact us to find out.
Summary: How can business benefit from the best headsets in 2024?
Explore VR’s diverse applications in workforce training, eliminating risks and reducing logistical costs.
Virtual training replicates on-site scenarios, benefiting field engineers and enhancing information absorption.
Healthcare utilises VR for hands-on learning, bypassing the need for cadavers in procedural training.
Real estate leverages VR headsets for immersive pre-construction experiences, aiding marketing and sales efforts.
Top VR and MR headsets for business in 2024, including Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro, are explored for their features and drawbacks.
FAQs
How much does PlayStation virtual reality cost?
In Australia, the PlayStation VR2 console is currently available to preorder, with prices ranging from $879 to $960.
Can you still buy PlayStation VR?
While the original PlayStation VR is still in production, it’s not currently available at any Australian retailers. The upcoming virtual reality headset, the Playstation VR2, is set for release on the 22nd of February 2023.
Does Sony do virtual reality?
Sony is indeed involved in the development and production of virtual reality (VR) technology. Sony has released several VR products, including the PlayStation VR headset, which allows users to experience immersive virtual environments.
In fact, Sony has been deeply involved in the VR and AR (augmented) reality scenes since 1996—and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. It has recently new VR goggles known as the PlayStation VR2, which will open up new opportunities for the current PlayStation 5 console.
Is Snapchat AR or MR?
Snapchat operates within the AR space. By overlaying virtual elements over a user’s real-world experience with the help of innovative hardware, Snapchat offers unique, innovative opportunities for user engagement and digital collaboration.
Which Samsung phone has AR?
The Galaxy S20 comes complete with AR features offered through its AR Zone. Users can create lifelike emojis and stickers, record videos with virtual handwriting, capture and edit photos and videos, and easily measure size and distance of their surroundings.
Is Samsung working on AR glasses?
Yes. According to reports, Samsung is working on its own AR device. These glasses are believed to allow users to wear a projected keyboard, enter a full-body virtual meeting, and simulate a virtual environment with ease.
Is Samsung in the Metaverse?
Yes. In January 2022, Samsung launched its 837X, a virtual world modelled on the physical 837 centre in New York City. Within the space, guests can explore the range of experiences available with Samsung tech. They can complete quests, follow the news, and even partake in Samsung’s commitment to sustainability. Samsung 837X launched in Decentraland, a Metaverse powered by blockchain.
Who makes Pico VR headsets?
Pico headsets have been made by Chinese optoelectronic and acoustic equipment maker Goertek. Since Pico was purchased by ByteDance – TikTok’s parent company – the two companies have reportedly entered into a strategic agreement. This new purchase by ByteDance has led to the launch of the Pico 4 – a headset with the capability to take on the giants in the industry.
Is Pico a Chinese company?
Yes. Pico’s emerged as a leading developer from China within the VR hardware space. Although it doesn’t yet have much global presence, Pico was recently purchased by ByteDance, and it’s expected this move will present Pico as a real threat to the VR powerhouse Meta.
Is HoloLens MR or AR?
The HoloLens is an MR system. The system still suits AR business requirements, as the difference between AR and MR is relatively minor, encompassing the use of third-party devices such as a phone for displaying information.
Is HoloLens 2 mixed reality?
Hololens 2 is a mixed reality system. Augmented reality glasses tend to be a part of a system that uses a phone, combining the world around us with graphics, data and similar readouts. The Hololens 2 is a standalone product that presents information without the need for a phone.
Is HoloLens 2 VR or AR?
Hololens 2 is an AR system, with AR glasses differing from virtual reality headsets in one key way. A VR headset blocks out the world around the viewer, leaving only the view of the metaverse and graphical environment around them. Augmented reality glasses, meanwhile, are see-through and mean that people can see both the real world and the virtual landscape.
Does the Meta Quest 2 need a PC?
No. You don’t need to connect your headset to a PC to launch into the online world or start collaborating and gaming. You can still connect to a computer if you like, but these are standalone headsets and are fully capable of working independently.
Do I need a VR headset for metaverse?
You don’t need a headset to enter the Metaverse. While headsets definitely make for the best VR experiences, you don’t need one to enter Metaverse worlds. All you really need is a computer with VR capabilities and you’re good to go.
Is Oculus Quest 3 coming out?
Yes. Meta has announced Oculus Quest 3 will be released in 2023, with a release date sometime in October looking the most likely. This headset is designed to be more budget-friendly than the Meta Quest range and is rumoured to be a more powerful headset with more haptics and an enhanced visual display. It’s also likely to have improved hand tracking and AR features, in keeping with Meta’s developments of the Quest 2.
Is Meta and Oculus the same?
Yes. Meta overtook the Oculus brand, which has established itself as the biggest name in VR innovation. With the rebranding, the headsets and devices of both brands carry the same features and improvements. Headsets carry the same hardware and receive the same updates – the only differences are the logo and the name.
Is Meta going to be VR?
Yes. The Meta Quest 2 is leading the VR world with its immersive gaming and virtual experience opportunities. Meta’s also working on a high-end VR headset, under the codename “Project Cambria”. This headset will overtake the Quest in terms of its capabilities and will be more suitable for workers who could even replace their laptop or PC with this interactive hardware.
Does the HP Reverb work with SteamVR?
Yes, the HP Reverb is compatible with SteamVR. All you need to do is download and install the Steam app, plug in your HP Reverb G2, and launch the Steam app. Next, click the VR icon within the Steam interface and follow the instructions to connect your headset.
How do I use my HP VR headset?
The HP VR headset is easy to set up. Just connect your headset to a compatible computer using the included cables and install the required software by following the on-screen instructions. Next, turn on your controllers and follow the guide to set up your VR space.
Is HP compatible with VR?
Yes, many of HP’s hardware offerings are compatible with their VR and MR headsets, including many of their desktop PC and laptop models.
Why did Google stop VR?
Google began its VR shutdown in 2019. In its statement, Google claimed there was difficulty encouraging consumers to use their phones for VR, and this meant limited access to apps. The company also said they hadn’t benefited from the reach or adoption among consumers or developers that they’d hoped for. It’s around this time they also open-sourced their Cardboard project.
Does Google have a virtual reality headset?
Yes. The Google Cardboard is an extremely accessible, affordable (available for under $10 on Amazon) headset which users can easily put together themselves before entering into a quality immersive VR experience.
Does Apple have VR glasses?
Not yet, but Apple’s VR and mixed reality headset is in the works. It’s likely to stand up as a strong competitor to established VR headsets in the industry and to be the company’s predecessor to its AR glasses.
Is Apple making augmented reality glasses?
If the rumours are true, Apple is working on developing AR glasses that go beyond the MR headset slated for 2023. Apple Glass is said to allow users to interact with digital information and objects through transparent wearables. It’s also rumoured to contain prescription lenses so that regular glasses wearers can enjoy the benefits of AR.
Is Apple in the metaverse?
Apple’s been slower to enter the Metaverse than other tech giants, and while this might look like they’re falling behind Apple is backed by a strong app and developer network. This puts them in better stead to enter the Metaverse with a strong product base and marketing approach.
Is Apple VR a thing?
Definitely. Apple’s confirmed they’re working on VR, and their proposed headset is rumoured to be a real competitor with the Meta Quest 2, the PSVR 2, and all other leading headsets within the space. The headset’s rumoured to be Apple’s precursor to AR-focused glasses.
Is Amazon working on virtual reality?
Amazon has been working on VR hardware since 2017, and is expected to fight to become one of the world’s leading VR brands. Amazon XR is already widely used for commercial purposes, and we can expect further Amazon MR brands and AR brands to tether more towards entertainment use.
How does Amazon use augmented reality?
Amazon currently allows shoppers to liaise with AR brands to place digital products in the home. This helps consumers to assess if things like the colour or size of an item will work in a room. However, Amazon is expected to grow its Amazon VR and Amazon AR business models further in the near future.
Which Samsung phone has AR?
The Galaxy S20 comes complete with AR features offered through its AR Zone. Users can create lifelike emojis and stickers, record videos with virtual handwriting, capture and edit photos and videos, and easily measure size and distance of their surroundings.
Is Samsung working on AR glasses?
Yes. According to reports, Samsung is working on its own AR device. These glasses are believed to allow users to wear a projected keyboard, enter a full-body virtual meeting, and simulate a virtual environment with ease.
Is Samsung in the Metaverse?
Yes. In January 2022, Samsung launched its 837X, a virtual world modelled on the physical 837 centre in New York City. Within the space, guests can explore the range of experiences available with Samsung tech. They can complete quests, follow the news, and even partake in Samsung’s commitment to sustainability. Samsung 837X launched in Decentraland, a Metaverse powered by blockchain.
Why did Google stop VR?
Google began its VR shutdown in 2019. In its statement, Google claimed there was difficulty encouraging consumers to use their phones for VR, and this meant limited access to apps. The company also said they hadn’t benefited from the reach or adoption among consumers or developers that they’d hoped for. It’s around this time they also open-sourced their Cardboard project.
Is Snapchat AR or MR?
Snapchat operates within the AR space. By overlaying virtual elements over a user’s real-world experience with the help of innovative hardware, Snapchat offers unique, innovative opportunities for user engagement and digital collaboration.
Is the Vive Pro 3 a good solution for businesses?
Definitely. It’s made to meet the needs of even the most demanding users. The Pro’s easy to use, easy to match with your business needs, and offers incredible features for users within a professional space. Whether you’re working at your desk or entering a multi-user meeting, you can trust the Vive Pro for its immersive audio, clear visuals, and engaging VR offerings.
Does HTC Vive Focus 3 need a PC?
The Vive Focus 3 is a standalone headset, with the option for PC connectivity. This makes it particularly suitable for businesses and enterprises whose workers largely perform desk duties. It allows users to join business meetings and events remotely and offers enhanced streaming capabilities.
Which is better, VIVE or Quest?
The Quest prides itself on being affordable, and Meta’s done a good job providing extras and a range of game selections for professional players. HTC goes above and beyond by offering the best of what VR has to offer: incredible displays, premium earphones, comfort and wearability, and precise tracking.
Is the Pico 4 good?
Yes. The Pico 4 features a streamlined design, more concise tracking, and a 4K display which is consistent with previous models. The headset’s easy to wear and offers incredible colour projection and more immersive gameplay.
Is Pico Neo 3 good?
Definitely. The Pico Neo 3 Pro, and its sibling the Neo 3 Pro Eye, are the counterparts to Pico’s consumer headset distributed to the Chinese market. These headsets closely resemble the Oculus Quest 2 in their features and capabilities. Visuals are crisp, comfort is key, and the controllers are easy to use.
How much does Pico Neo cost?
The Pico Neo 3 Pro Eye costs $1,599. It comes with incredible motion tracking, the option for wireless and wired streaming, and connectivity with all major development engines so that developers can create the most powerful business apps possible in VR.
Who makes Pico VR headsets?
Pico headsets have been made by Chinese optoelectronic and acoustic equipment maker Goertek. Since Pico was purchased by ByteDance – TikTok’s parent company – the two companies have reportedly entered into a strategic agreement. This new purchase by ByteDance has led to the launch of the Pico 4 – a headset with the capability to take on the giants in the industry.
Is Pico a Chinese company?
Yes. Pico’s emerged as a leading developer from China within the VR hardware space. Although it doesn’t yet have much global presence, Pico was recently purchased by ByteDance, and it’s expected this move will present Pico as a real threat to the VR powerhouse Meta.
Does the Meta Quest 2 need a PC?
No. You don’t need to connect your headset to a PC to launch into the online world or start collaborating and gaming. You can still connect to a computer if you like, but these are standalone headsets and are fully capable of working independently.
Do I need a VR headset for metaverse?
You don’t need a headset to enter the Metaverse. While headsets definitely make for the best VR experiences, you don’t need one to enter Metaverse worlds. All you really need is a computer with VR capabilities and you’re good to go.
Is Oculus Quest 3 coming out?
Yes. Meta has announced Oculus Quest 3 will be released in 2023, with a release date sometime in October looking the most likely. This headset is designed to be more budget-friendly than the Meta Quest range and is rumoured to be a more powerful headset with more haptics and an enhanced visual display. It’s also likely to have improved hand tracking and AR features, in keeping with Meta’s developments of the Quest 2.
Is Meta and Oculus the same?
Yes. Meta overtook the Oculus brand, which has established itself as the biggest name in VR innovation. With the rebranding, the headsets and devices of both brands carry the same features and improvements. Headsets carry the same hardware and receive the same updates – the only differences are the logo and the name.
Is Meta going to be VR?
Yes. The Meta Quest 2 is leading the VR world with its immersive gaming and virtual experience opportunities. Meta’s also working on a high-end VR headset, under the codename “Project Cambria”. This headset will overtake the Quest in terms of its capabilities and will be more suitable for workers who could even replace their laptop or PC with this interactive hardware.
Is mixed reality the future of AR & VR?
Yes. Mixed reality takes the best features of AR and VR and blends them into an incredible user experience. Users can interact with the physical and virtual world seamlessly, with MR replicating their natural behaviour and changes in perspectives. This goes beyond the traditional approaches of VR and AR, which place users within a space or overlay the physical world with additional information.
What is mixed reality vs augmented reality?
Augmented reality (AR) adds virtual information on top of what a user already sees. MR goes a step beyond this, allowing for physical and virtual environments to interact with each other, and for users to engage with these environments also. AR enhances what a user experiences of the world around them, while MR seamlessly integrates physical and virtual realities so that it’s hard to tell the difference.
What is a key feature of mixed reality?
Mixed reality is focused on collaboration and improved experience. Users can easily interact with one another within the MR environment, sharing 3D models of their physical space with virtually-connected users and engaging with others through gesture and speech recognition.
How is mixed reality used today?
Mixed reality is employed by many industries and businesses to improve employee experience and performance, simplify processes, save time and money, and deliver better results for consumers. It allows both company workers and customers to engage with combined physical and virtual spaces, interacting with the real and digital objects around them.
What is mixed reality and example?
Mixed reality allows for interactions with both physical and virtual realities at the one time. It can be employed in many ways, and an example might be a headset used by gamers, or a simulated environment as part of business training and experience.
What is the concept of mixed reality?
Mixed reality merges the physical and virtual worlds to generate a new environment in which these elements co-exist. It offers immersive user experiences, simplified business processes, and savings on the time and costs involved in developing prototypes, reviewing products, and testing employees.
What are the disadvantages of VR?
VR does have a few notable disadvantages for users, such as the risk of dizziness and nausea when inhabiting the virtual environment. There are also concerns that too much time spent in virtual reality can damage eyesight. Some of the headsets used to enter virtual environments are also quite heavy and uncomfortable to wear.
What is the difference between AR and VR?
Although augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are similar in their concept, they have a few notable differences. AR requires a real-world environment to function, whereas VR creates a virtual world. AR allows users to manipulate real-world surroundings, but VR can’t do this. VR uses specialised hardware such as headsets, while AR doesn’t.
What is the price of VR?
Prices for virtual reality vary dramatically depending on the type of virtual reality hardware used. Off-the-shelf virtual reality headsets currently cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000 for a standard VR setup. However, more bespoke options are much more expensive due to the customisation and capabilities of the systems.
Who invented virtual reality?
Virtual reality was initially conceived in 1968 by Ivan Sutherland and Bob Sproull. Together, they created a head-mounted virtual reality display known as the Sword of Damocles that was directly connected to a computer. It was a cumbersome device that was suspended from a ceiling, which is where the name came from.
What is the future of virtual reality?
The future of virtual reality looks very promising thanks to further innovations and technology associated with virtual worlds. Many of the barriers that virtual reality presents, such as motion sickness or asset clipping, will be removed due to improvements in the technology and tools applicable to virtual reality.vr
I have an idea for a VR application but don't know where to start?
That’s an easy one. Our team are used to dealing with very early stage conceptual ideas. We’ll brainstorm the best solution for your business given it’s desires and constraints. Once we’ve decided on the best way forward together we’ll put together a quote and start making your idea a (virtual) reality.
