Are VR headsets just for gaming? (Virtual) reality is much broader.
A few years ago, when we talked about virtual reality headsets , most people immediately thought of video games. And with good reason. The first major boost for this technology came with immersive titles that offered experiences like never before: from exploring alien planets to immersing ourselves in first-person combat. However, as a tech journalist who has closely followed the evolution of this sector, I can assure you that today, VR is far beyond entertainment .
VR headsets are beginning to play a crucial role in industries as diverse as medicine, education, architecture, and even mental well-being. And this change isn't a future promise: it's happening right now . Throughout this article, I'll share five concrete, current uses of virtual reality headsets that are impacting the real world, with tangible examples, technical analysis, and a look at how these trends may resonate in emerging markets like Chile.
1. Medical training: precision without risk
One of the areas where VR is making a substantial difference is in medical personnel training . From surgeons to paramedics, healthcare professionals are using immersive simulations to train in complex procedures.
How exactly does it work? Using interactive 3D anatomical models, VR headsets allow for impressively accurate surgery. Some solutions even integrate haptic feedback (vibrations or pressure) that simulates the resistance of human tissue.
Case in point: The clinically validated Osso VR platform is used in hospitals in the United States and Europe to train orthopedic surgeons. According to a UCLA study, Osso VR users performed 230% better on practical assessments than those who received traditional training.
And in Chile? Although still in its early stages, private clinics in Santiago have begun importing similar solutions, especially in fields like laparoscopic surgery. Cost remains a barrier, but the opportunities are clear.
2. Immersive education: beyond the classroom
In educational settings, VR headsets enable multisensory learning that goes beyond reading or simple viewing. From exploring human anatomy to walking through ancient Rome, immersive education improves student retention and motivation .
Competitive advantage: Unlike traditional methods, VR promotes active learning. Direct interaction with the content stimulates critical thinking and problem-solving.
Case study: ClassVR is a platform designed for schools and is already used in more than 80 countries. It offers hundreds of ready-to-use experiences, from biology to art history. In the United Kingdom, after six months of implementation, a 17% increase in average science grades was observed among students aged 10 to 13.
Local implications: In Chile, pilot projects like VR Educa have proven effective in rural areas where educational resources are limited. A classroom equipped with just five headsets can be transformed into a science lab, an art gallery, and a language simulator.
3. Architecture and design: see before you build
Architects no longer have to rely solely on 2D plans or renderings. Thanks to VR, it's possible to virtually walk through a building before the first brick is even laid . This not only optimizes the design but also enables clearer communication with the client.
What technology is used? Many studios integrate graphics engines like Unreal Engine or Unity with headsets like the Pico 4 Ultra or Meta Quest Pro . The precision is such that you can experience different lighting conditions, materials, and spatial layouts in real time.
Measurable benefits:
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Reduction of design errors on site.
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Acceleration of the approval process by clients.
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Increase in final buyer satisfaction.
Local example: Chilean company ArqDigital offers VR tours of real estate projects to potential buyers. This has improved the conversion rate in sales rooms by 28% compared to the traditional method based on physical models and brochures.
4. Mental health and well-being: therapy without the couch
A lesser-known but high-impact application is the use of VR in psychological therapies . From treating phobias to guided meditation, immersive environments allow for a deeper emotional connection.
Technique in use: Virtual exposure allows anxiety-provoking situations to be simulated in a controlled environment. This has been key in therapies for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety, and even addictions.
Concrete example: The Spanish startup Psious has developed VR environments for clinical psychologists, enabling everything from simulated flights to treat fear of flying to office recreations to address stage fright.
Applicability in Chile: With the sustained growth of telemedicine post-pandemic, Chilean mental health professionals are beginning to explore the use of these technologies as a complement to traditional therapies. There are already clinics in Providencia that integrate VR into mindfulness sessions.
5. Industrial training: safety without consequences
In industrial settings, training in real-life conditions can be expensive, dangerous, or simply unfeasible. That's where VR comes in. Mining companies, factories, and chemical plants are using simulators to train their operators in high-risk situations without putting them in danger.
Key components:
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Interaction with complex machinery in 3D.
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Simulation of critical scenarios such as fires, leaks or explosions.
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Detailed logging of user performance for later analysis.
Notable case: Codelco has begun implementing VR simulators at its training center for underground operations training. According to its own reports, it has managed to reduce incidents in real-life training by 40%.
Social implications: In regions like Antofagasta and Atacama, where mining is vital, this technology can make the difference between superficial training and real, effective preparation.
Are we really ready for a more virtual life?
The five cases I've explored here show that virtual reality is no longer a futuristic promise, but a present-day tool . But we must also be critical: accessibility, costs, and the learning curve still represent significant challenges, especially in countries with technological gaps like Chile.
In my opinion, the next big step won't just be perfecting the technology—that's already happening—but democratizing it. Headsets like the Pico 4 Ultra , which offer premium specs at more reasonable prices, can accelerate this change. But governments, educational institutions, and companies also need to invest in infrastructure and training so that these solutions aren't reserved for the limited limited.
What do you think?
Can you imagine using VR headsets in your daily work? Would you like your children to learn with virtual reality at school? Leave your comments below ; I'd love to hear your perspective.
And if you are passionate about this topic, I recommend you also read:
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