Artificial intelligence and virtual reality
The Interaction of Artificial Intelligence in Virtual Reality
Technology is currently advancing at a rapid pace, and Virtual Reality is no exception. Thanks to its convergence with other key innovations such as the Metaverse and Spatial Computing , the immersive experience it offers goes a step further, transforming how we interact in the digital world .
Among the technologies being combined with Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence undoubtedly stands out . These two technologies are establishing themselves as disruptive forces for multiple sectors, from transforming how we enjoy entertainment to revolutionizing medical procedures and educational programs.
The combination of both technologies offers new ways to innovate in the virtual world, create digital elements in real time, and fully customize the immersive experience .
In this article we will explore how Artificial Intelligence and VR experiences come together , the advantages of combining them, and what the future holds for both technologies.
Differences between Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality
Although both technologies are often mentioned when discussing technological advances and tech trends with more applications for businesses , Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality stem from different contexts and lines of research in computer science.
Virtual Reality is the technology capable of immersing us in completely digital, alternative worlds , simulating fully immersive experiences where we, the users, decide where to focus our attention. These 3D environments allow our senses to cease perceiving the real world thanks to total immersion through Virtual Reality headsets and accessories, creating the illusion of being present in a completely different place.
On the other hand, Artificial Intelligence refers to the set of technologies that allow machines to think and act like human beings, adapting to different situations and performing tasks that normally required human intelligence.
All through algorithms that provide feedback and learn on their own through data training . A combination of machine learning models, Big Data, and strategies that perform tasks such as pattern recognition or even decision-making.
AI does not create an environment, but rather endows the elements of that virtual environment with the ability to think and react intelligently to the actions of users.
In this first chapter of the “ VR 2024
Trends Special ” we will see the combined use of artificial
intelligence and virtual reality allowing companies to create new and
revolutionary rich and large-scale experiences.
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a revolutionary force in the virtual reality (VR) software industry, unlocking possibilities that were previously unimaginable. With its ability to dynamically create, adapt, and personalize content, this technology offers businesses the opportunity to deliver rich, personalized VR experiences at scale.
Generative AI refers to algorithms and models that
can generate new and unique data after learning from a training dataset. This
can include anything from creating realistic images and textures to generating
interactive dialogue and narratives. In VR, this capability translates into
richer virtual environments and characters or situations that adapt to user
interactions.
An exciting field is the development of NPCs (non-player
characters) that use generative AI to create more realistic and complex
interactions. These characters can respond to the user’s actions and emotions
in real time, offering dynamically generated responses and behaviors that
create the illusion of intelligence and consciousness. In practice, this means
that each interaction can be unique, as the AI is
designing the experience on the fly based on a set of learned rules and
parameters. For example, in corporate training, this can be used to simulate
difficult customer scenarios, allowing employees to practice their
communication and problem-solving skills in a controlled but realistic
environment.
Content personalization is also an area where generative AI
shows huge potential. By taking user information such as interests, past
behavior, and even facial expressions and tone of voice, AI can tailor the VR
experience to be more relevant and engaging. In education, this translates into
learning programs that adjust to a student’s level and learning style,
presenting information in a way that is most effective for them. For example,
if a student is struggling with a concept, generative AI can change the way the
information is presented or create new, more appropriate examples to facilitate
understanding.
In the area of entertainment
and gaming, generative AI is opening the door to narrative experiences that
adapt to the user’s behavior and decisions. Imagine a
VR game where the story and challenges change not only in response to the
player’s explicit actions but also to their
emotional state as detected by the system. If the player shows signs of
frustration, the AI could
alter the game’s difficulty or introduce narrative
elements designed to maintain interest and motivation.
Companies can capitalize on generative AI technology in VR
in multiple ways. From increasing productivity and efficiency in content
creation, to offering highly personalized products and services, to generating
valuable data on user interaction with the virtual environment. This last
application is particularly useful for research and development purposes, as
companies can gain a deeper understanding of user preferences and behaviors,
which in turn can inform the evolution of products and services.
In short, generative AI is expanding the horizon of what is
possible in VR software development. It provides businesses with a powerful
tool to create more immersive, personalized, and exciting experiences. With
each advancement in the field of generative AI, we are getting closer to a
future where VR experiences will be indistinguishable from reality, not just in
appearance but in reactivity and personalization.
