Introduction
Immersive computing has come a long way since its inception, thanks to the pioneering work of researchers and developers who have contributed significantly to the development of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the key figures and milestones that have shaped the evolution of AR and VR, from early experiments to modern applications and advancements in the field.
Early Pioneers of AR and VR
Before diving into the history of AR and VR technology, it’s important to understand the context in which these concepts were first conceived. In the 1960s, researchers at universities and research institutions began exploring ways to create immersive environments for users.
One of the earliest pioneers of AR was Ivan Sutherland, who developed “Skywriter,” a computer program that allowed users to draw on a virtual canvas in the sky using a light pen.
Another early pioneer was Jaron Lanier, who coined the term “virtual reality” in 1983. His work focused on creating a fully immersive environment for users, where they could feel like they were physically present in another world.
Later in the 1980s, computer scientist Edward Catmull developed Z-buffering, an algorithm that enabled developers to create more realistic and convincing virtual environments.
The Birth of AR and VR in the 1990s
As technology advanced, the development of AR and VR began to take off in earnest. In 1992, Silicon Graphics developed the first VR headset, the SGI Multiverse, which allowed users to explore a virtual world using a pair of head-mounted displays.
However, it wasn’t until the mid-1990s that AR and VR really began to gain traction.
One of the key milestones in the history of AR was the development of “virtual try-on” technology, which allowed users to see how clothes, furniture, and other objects would look in their real-world surroundings before making a purchase. This technology paved the way for the development of more advanced AR applications, such as those used in architecture, engineering, and design.
In the same year, Sharp Corporation developed the first commercially available AR headset, the AR glasses. These glasses allowed users to overlay digital information onto the real world, providing a new level of interaction and immersion that had never been possible before.
Advancements in AR and VR Technology
Over the years, advancements in hardware, software, and display technology have enabled developers to create more immersive and realistic AR and VR experiences. In 2010, Apple introduced the iPad, which allowed developers to create mobile AR applications that could be used on a wide range of devices.
This led to a surge in interest in AR and VR development, with countless startups and established companies exploring new ways to use this technology.
In recent years, advancements in display technology have enabled the development of more advanced VR headsets, such as the Oculus Quest 2 and the HTC Vive Pro Eye. These headsets offer higher resolution displays, better tracking, and improved ergonomics, making it easier for users to become fully immersed in virtual environments.
Summary
The pioneers of AR and VR technology have made incredible contributions to the field of immersive computing, paving the way for a new generation of applications and experiences that are changing the way we interact with the world around us. From early experiments to modern advancements, the history of AR and VR is a testament to human ingenuity and the power of technology to transform our lives.
