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From: pathak@mbunix.mitre.org (Pathak)
Newsgroups: sci.virtual-worlds
Subject: Re: Consumer Markets for VR
Message-ID: <12657@milton.u.washington.edu>
Date: 9 Dec 90 20:16:57 GMT
References: <12617@milton.u.washington.edu>
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In article <12617@milton.u.washington.edu> frerichs@ux1.cso.uiuc.edu (David J Fr
erichs) writes:
>
>
>I am about to ask a question that should make most VR researchers stop and
>think...
>
>Other than interactive gaming, does anyone see any motivation for a consumer
>(ie layman who doesn't know much) to buy a consumer priced VR setup when one
>becomes available.
>I am playing the devils advocate for the research team I am in.
>Consider that it probably wont be full color and not of a high enough
>quality for professional CAD but convincing enough to give a sense of seeing
>3D objects that aren't really there.  It could be stand alone or use a host.
>
>
>-dfRERICHS
>Univ of IL/CU
>Dept of CompEng
>IEEE/SigGraph

I can imaging a system that would allow people to visit exotic vacation and
historical spots (Kenya, Egypt, Ancient Rome...).  Other alternatives could
allow the user to be transported to "live performances" (the local football 
game, the opera....).  Just look at what is currently on TV and I think 
you could find a number of "programs" that people would rather see and hear
in stereo.  Also think of the education advantages the system could provide.
Want to teach your child about space...take a trip to the Moon, etc.  

IMHO VR systems have the capability to make even a greater impact than TV 
for the average person.  All it takes is some creativity from the "experts".


Heeren Pathak
pathak@mitre.org
I think if some sort
of generic system like that could be found, people would pay a fair amount
or money for it.