XR devices for virtual worlds

The most common way of enjoying virtual worlds would be through a head mounted display (HMD) or augmented reality (AR) glasses. Some virtual worlds are not restricted to virtual reality headsets or smart glasses and can also be accessed through a regular computer or a smartphone. However, the feeling of being immersed in the virtual world may not be there. For a hybrid meeting you may also use a holographic display to project participants live into the meeting room.

Smart glasses

Smart glasses or augmented reality (AR) glasses tend to be like normal glasses, lighter and more comfortable and they are used to augment the real environment around the user. The feeling of immersion of glasses is usually lower than with headsets.

Headsets

There are different types of headsets or Head Mounted Displays (HMDs).

An augmented reality headset allows users to perceive a digitally augmented real world through a transparent crystal.

A virtual reality headset makes it possible to perceive a fully immersive virtual world through a screen separating the user visually from the external world. Although virtual reality headsets existed for a long time, their recent surge in popularity is because there is more choice now and they are cheaper. 

Virtual reality headsets can be connected to a computer by a cable (tethered). These types of headsets are usually more expensive and offer superior graphics by utilising the processing power of the computer. On the other hand, there are virtual reality headsets that operate as standalone computers without cables (un-tethered). Headsets are becoming more comfortable and ergonomic, but it is at the cost of having less computing power and lower graphic quality.

Users wearing a virtual reality headset can also access a virtual world using different methods, depending on the how the hosting platform has set up the virtual world. Sometimes users need to download a file into their computer or headset and install it, just like a regular program or videogame. Others don’t require installation and are located in the cloud, which means they can be accessed directly from an internet browser by entering its designated internet address.

Interaction controllers

Travellers in virtual worlds can also use controllers with touchpads or buttons. These are usually handheld interaction controllers. The user can pick things up with these controllers, move around and interact with virtual objects. Depending on the XR device and the specific application a user is engaging with, one or multiple of those controllers may be involved. 

Haptic devices

Users seeking an enhanced sense of presence can feel the virtual world through the sense of touch by using haptic devices. Haptics are technological instruments that users can wear in real life. These generate vibrations, forces and simulate the sense of touch while being synchronised to the digital landscape. For example, a haptic glove will allow the user to pick an object in the virtual world and feel as if they are touching the object in real life, amplifying the realism and engagement within virtual worlds.

Holographic displays

Holographic displays are also a type of XR devices. Holography can be used in augmented reality glasses, but it is also possible to see holograms without a headset. In that case, you need a holographic display that sits on the table or a wall mounted display to see them. These displays use light to project the image of 3-dimensional object or person giving the sense of that it is floating freely in the air.

How to choose XR devices?

Companies selling headsets, displays, smart glasses, controllers and haptic gloves have developed their own platforms. Users may not be able to access a particular virtual world unless they have a particular brand of XR devices. As technology bridges the gap between the real and the virtual world, the right choice of hardware becomes crucial for users to fully explore and experience the limitless possibilities of the digital realm.

Therefore, the choice of hardware will also determine the choice of virtual worlds that you can access. The current lack of widely accepted standards lowers compatibility between systems and slows down the development process and increases design and testing costs. Openness and interoperability in XR technologies (and in virtual worlds and Web 4.0) are two features that will depend on how virtual worlds are governed. To foster innovation and creativity, the governance model should enable diverse participation, including the representation and participation of vulnerable groups by promoting inclusivity and accessibility.