One of the common criticisms levied against virtual reality is that the technology is inherently isolating, but 'Mozilla Hubs' show that VR has the potential to engender socialization. The newly announced VR system creates chatrooms that are accessible via any headset, giving users a space to communicate through both speech and movement.
Mozilla Hubs are based within the Mozilla browser, so they have a very low barrier of entry. Users don't have to own an expensive, high-powered VR headset; they can gain access to their friends' Mozilla Hubs with something as simple as a Google Cardboard and their smartphones. Users can even skip the VR aspect entirely and enter chatrooms two-dimensionally through mobile, laptop, or desktop computers.
Social VR Landscapes
'Mozilla Hubs' Create VR Chatrooms Directly Within Users' Browsers
Trend Themes
1. VR Socialization - Creating VR chatrooms accessible via any headset, enabling socialization through speech and movement.
2. Low Barrier VR - VR systems accessible through low-cost devices like Google Cardboard and smartphones, removing the need for expensive headsets.
3. Cross-platform VR - Allowing users to enter chatrooms in both VR and two-dimensional formats on mobile, laptop, or desktop computers, enhancing accessibility.
Industry Implications
1. Virtual Reality - Opportunity for VR companies to develop social VR platforms that enable users to engage with each other in virtual spaces.
2. Smartphone Technology - Potential for smartphone manufacturers to integrate VR capabilities into low-cost devices, making VR more accessible to a wider audience.
3. Browser Technology - Opportunity for browser developers to create VR-compatible platforms, expanding the range of VR experiences available to users.