[PreMoney SF 2015] Mike Rothenberg: "This Time, Virtual Reality Is Here To Stay"

TL;DR

Virtual reality is an emerging technology with immense potential to change lives, and it is already attracting significant investments from major tech companies.

Transcript

thank you all right is this on yes it is okay hi everybody I I want to start by telling you guys a story that ended with a 13 amazing companies working together in one building from around the world and then that same story is the beginning of another story that we will then get to all explore together as as mentioned we are a venture capital firm ... Read More

Key Insights

• 👻 Virtual reality technology has evolved rapidly, with advancements in pixelation, processing speed, and memory allowing for a more immersive experience.
• 🧑‍💻 Major tech companies are investing heavily in virtual reality, indicating its potential as the next major platform after mobile.
• 💗 The demand for virtual reality content is growing, with applications in gaming, entertainment, healthcare, education, and enterprise.
• ✊ Virtual reality has the power to change lives by providing experiences and opportunities that were previously inaccessible.
• 🔬 Early-stage investors have an exciting opportunity to invest in virtual reality companies and help shape the future of the technology.
• 📽️ The virtual reality market is projected to reach $10 billion in software and hardware sales within the next five years.
• 😒 Proper regulation and standards are essential to ensure the responsible and ethical use of virtual reality technology.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is virtual reality?

Virtual reality is a technology that immerses users in a computer-generated environment, creating a realistic sensory experience through sight and sound.

Q: How is virtual reality being used in healthcare?

Virtual reality is being used to manage pain during bandage changes for burn patients, helping to diminish the perceived pain through immersion in another world.

Q: How is virtual reality transforming journalism?

Virtual reality is allowing journalists to tell stories by placing their audience in another environment, creating a powerful and empathetic experience for viewers.

Q: What are some potential risks associated with virtual reality?

Virtual reality has the potential to cause PTSD-like symptoms if users are exposed to traumatic or violent experiences. It is crucial to establish standards and guidelines to prevent long-term harm.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Virtual reality is being used to help university students with muscular dystrophy regain the ability to play the piano and perform concerts with friends.

• It is also being used to help individuals overcome fears, such as getting on and off subway trains, and managing chronic pain during bandage changes.

• Virtual reality has applications in fields like journalism, healthcare, education, and entertainment, with companies already building technology and content to cater to these areas.