Disney's Latest Invention Could Make Using Virtual Reality Easier Than Ever!

Do you ever think about how virtual reality is like, a thing now? The future really is…now.

VR Experience

We’ve seen Disney use virtual reality experiences in the theme parks on a VERY limited basis, such as during the Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Nights event, but they are putting in WORK on making virtual reality more of a thing in and out of the parks. Soon, we’ll be able to experience the augmented reality “Windows to the Wild” experience. So cool! Now, Disney may have the tech to give you a FULL virtual reality experience without the cords or the bulky headset.

Disney researchers recently filed a permit for an “Illumination-based System for Distributing Immersive Experience Content in a Multi-user Environment.” Whew, that’s a mouthful! This tech boils down to be a way to put users in virtual reality without wearing the bulky headset or needing to be tethered to a computer.

©Disney

The patent notes that “Typically, a head-mounted display (“HMD”), such as headgear, glasses, etc., is worn by the user over his or her eyes to provide a VR or an AR experience. Yet, wearing the HMD can be quite uncomfortable for a user.” Usually, VR headsets are HEAVY due to the position-tracking tech. Disney’s invention uses infrared illumination to keep track of user position, and it’s all built into the room so the actual VR apparatus that a user wears can be much more lightweight.

©Disney

It can even be used with multiple users! Basically, a processor (illustrated as being mounted on the ceiling) sends and receives wavelengths from the individual VR glasses in use. The wavelengths help to determine the positioning and send the correct image down to the user. That’s VERY cool and means that VR could be a lot more accessible on a larger scale — like in a theme park — where every guest can’t be fitted with a full head-mounted display.

©Disney

It would certainly be amazing to see tech like this in use in Disney parks or even with Disney’s user products! We’ll report in on ALL the latest Disney VR news, so stay tuned for all the updates!

Click here to learn more about Disney’s virtual reality tech!

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