The Oculus Rift Virtual Reality Headset will revolutionize the user experience in immersive 3D gaming and simulations. Now in development, the affordable consumer version of Oculus Rift is expected to come to market in about a year.
eXtension has acquired an early prototype of the Rift that you may try for yourself at NeXC, during the Monday evening reception at the eXtension 3D exhibit.
These goggles use custom tracking technology allowing you to seamlessly look around the virtual world in 360 degrees just as you would in real life. Every subtle movement of your head is tracked in real time creating a natural and intuitive experience.
This technology has broad applications beyond gaming. The company has already sold developer kits to companies in virtually every industry, from auto manufacturers to the medical community. NASA is using the Rift to create virtual tours of Mars and the International Space Station. The uses in education and training are unlimited.
“Virtual reality,” says Oculus VP Nate Mitchell, “is a ‘new disruptive medium that can revolutionize the way we do a lot more than just games.'” Forbes is already referring to the way businesses are looking to capitalize on VR as the “Oculus Rift effect.”
eXtension will be on the cutting edge of educational use of the Oculus Rift by integrating Rift capability into its 3D learning environments.
For more information about the Rift watch the company’s promotional video.