The virtual reality sector is still growing, yet experts are already making predictions for how things will change in the coming years. It is true VR has tremendous potential to shake up the world of content consumption, education, and healthcare as we know it. However, the following criteria will need some attention before that can become a reality.
3. Consumer Expectations Were Never Higher
It is evident there is a lot of promise associated with Virtual Reality At the same time, consumer expectations are shifting every single day, creating a very challenging environment. It is doubtful 2017 will be a powerful year for VR, although a lot of foundation for the future can be laid over the coming months. There are no new headsets to look forward to just yet, although that may not necessarily reflect negatively on VR hardware sales as a whole.
If the number of VR headset sales can continue to grow, things continue to look positive for the VR ecosystem. Should the sales taper off, the entire ecosystem comes under a lot of pressure. It will take a while before virtual reality is deemed “consumer-ready”, yet manufacturers and content providers have to be ready for when the switch happens.
2. Streamlining The Creative Process
On paper, virtual reality technology opens a lot of new doors for content creators. So far, it appears the creative aspect leaves a bit to be desired. Until consumers adopt VR content, very little will change where the creative process is concerned. However, without engaging content, there is no reason to embrace VR either. It is a very tough balancing act, that much is evident.
Furthermore, VR is also somewhat limited as to the quality of graphics that VR games can provide. As time passes and computer hardware will improve and will be able to render higher quality content.
1. 360-degree Content and Ads
One thing that direly needs improvements is the availability and accessibility of 360-degree content. Virtual reality is all about immersion, and 360-degree video and other types of content will certainly help in this regard. This pertains to the creative process as well, since the technology creates a lot of new opportunities when it comes to execution and planning.
If there is more 360-degree content, rest assured advertisers will find new ways to attract eyeballs as well. Media agencies will focus on creating a lot of 360-degree content, yet they also have to monetize their creations efficiently. We can only hope these ads will not be as cumbersome as traditional pop-ups and pop-unders, or annoying banner ads that suddenly block half of the screen.
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