VR headsets, also known as VR goggles, are hardware devices that enable users to experience virtual reality and augmented reality. These devices consist of high-resolution screens, headphones, cameras, and sensors.

What is a VR Headset?

VR headsets are specialized devices designed to create immersive virtual experiences. They completely cut off the user's visual connection with the outside world, making the user feel as if they are in a 3D virtual world created by a computer. To provide this immersive experience, the most advanced VR headsets today include two high-resolution screens (one for each eye), high-quality headphones, cameras to track the physical environment, accelerometers, and gyroscopes. Most modern VR headsets also come with controllers to help users interact with the virtual world.

Types of VR Headsets

VR headsets can be categorized based on their features and operating methods. Headsets that work connected to a computer or gaming console via a cable are classified as tethered headsets. Another type of headset, which includes built-in processing units, can offer VR and AR experiences without the need for any additional device. These headsets are called standalone headsets. Those that can operate in both ways are known as hybrid VR headsets. Another type of VR headset is created by converting smartphones into VR goggles using various accessories.

Evolution of VR Headsets

Although virtual reality and VR headsets have entered our lives relatively recently, VR headset technology has been in development since the 1970s. In 1979, Eric Howlett developed the LEEP (Large Expanse, Extra Perspective) optical system, which created a wide field of view and a sense of depth. This system was adapted for NASA's first virtual reality headset, the VIEW (Virtual Interactive Environment Workstation), in 1985.

In the following years, technology companies began to compete with each other in developing VR headsets. VPL Research, founded by Jaron Lanier in 1984, developed various VR hardware. This included the affordable VR device Power Glove developed for Mattel.

In 1991, Sega released its headset called Sega VR for the Mega Drive console, which included LCD screens, headphones, and sensors. This was followed by Sony's Glasstron, released in 1997. By 2012, the Oculus Rift VR headset had emerged. Oculus was acquired by Facebook, now known as Meta, in 2014. Today, Meta's VR headsets fall under the Meta Quest brand.

In 2016, Sony released the Playstation VR, which works with the Playstation 4, and HTC released the Vive VR headset. While Google developed a cardboard headset that users could use with their phones, Samsung tried to take part in this field with its Gear VR device. As of 2024, Meta Quest models, Apple Vision Pro, and Playstation VR headsets are the most preferred VR hardware in the field of virtual reality headsets.