We already know the plans and expectations for the tools and services based on Virtual Reality (VR) technology and 360 video. We are aware of their potential and predicted earnings – exorbitant. The year 2016 is the beginning of the revolution when the new device will go into the hands of consumers around the world. It is going to take just a moment and a little more patience. But you may wonder what we really are going to buy.
The VR device is just a medium. What we really buy is the assumption that what we are going to experience through VR devices is worth our money. We expect that the market offering games, computer programs, and IT services will soon provide more news and articles dedicated to VR customers, which means us. We anticipate that, again and again, we will be surprised by the innovative solutions proposed to us by VR developers. We hope that immersion into the virtual world will give us an unforgettable experience and appetite for more. What if we were interested in “right now” and “not sometime in the future?” Then, it is worth mentioning two industries that are successfully using the virtual reality potential and solutions in their businesses; they are the automotive and tourism industries.
The automotive industry pretty quickly saw huge opportunities slumbering in VR. It seems that nothing is driving sales as successfully as a direct customer contact with his or her dream car. And it is not with the one that stands in the showroom! We know that car dealers are limited to a few models, and we are looking for something more – something specific and personalized just for us. Companies such as Mercedes, Ford, Lexus, and Lamborghini already use solutions that allow the customer to configure the selected model, choose the color, accessories, and even have a virtual test drive. It is an experience that will greatly affect the positive attitude towards their purchase choice. Similar VR solutions start emerging in the real estate market; and we predict that other sectors will not stay indifferent.
Another area of adopting VR is Tourism 360. Our expectations confronted with reality creates a dilemma that accompanies us in choosing the right place to relax. Entering the travel agency, looking at the bids, we wonder where we can go for our dream holiday. Thomas Cook Travel Agency introduced the possibility of holding a few minutes’ visits to selected locations through video 360. Now, listening to the offer, we can move to the very place for a few minutes and feel like being there. Tomas Cook Agency reported a sales growth of 180% during only one occurrence of their VR proposal. As the Agency states, the investment in VR solutions for their business paid back within a year. That makes a difference!
