Apple has entered the realm virtual reality devices adding a VR smartphone accessory inspired by the popular View-Master toys that used images to transport viewers to far off locations and scenes. The headset works in conjunction with a smartphone to provide the same 360-degree experience, but using much more sophisticated video technology.
The View-Master Virtual Reality Starter Pack is an affordable alternative to an Oculus Rift headset that is much more cost-effective to the masses thanks to its plastic design. The device is essentially a plastic casing that a smartphone can fit into. The phone then works with a joining app to provide videos that submerse the user entirely into new spaces, worlds and locations.
The affordable design allows the virtual reality technology to be much more accessible to a wider consumer demographic.
View-Master VR Headsets
The Apple VR Smartphone Accessory is Inspired by the Popular Toy
Trend Themes
1. Affordable VR - The affordability of the View-Master VR headset suggests a trend towards making VR technology more accessible to the masses.
2. Smartphone VR Accessories - Apple's View-Master VR smartphone accessory is an example of a trend towards creating affordable add-ons to make VR technology more accessible on popular devices.
3. 360-degree Video - The View-Master headset's use of 360-degree video technology might signal a trend towards more immersive video experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - Consumer electronics companies may benefit from innovations in affordable VR, such as the View-Master VR headset.
2. Smartphone Manufacturing - The rise of smartphone VR accessories, like Apple's View-Master, may lead to new opportunities for smartphone manufacturers to integrate VR technology into their devices.
3. Entertainment - The 360-degree video technology used in the View-Master VR headset may disrupt the entertainment industry, leading to more immersive and interactive experiences for audiences.