Jeremy HernandezI have always wondered, “What are the limits of Artificial Intelligence?” Whether we realize it or not, AI has been around in recognizable form since the 1950's, when two software-based AI programs were created to play checkers and chess. Now, it has started to make itself more prevalent in our world, leaving an impact that will last for the foreseeable future. As our world continues to advance in technology, AI will keep influencing our experiences, particularly in Virtual Reality (VR).
Today, there are many concerns for AI, but we stand to benefit a great deal in regards to VR. Virtual Reality can be greatly, enhanced in almost every aspect by AI, as if, they were created together. With the implementation of AI, there are four key areas:
Optimizations for Graphics Rendering
Object Recognition
Behavioral Analysis
Personalization & Customizations
Optimization for Graphics Rendering
The rendering of graphics has always been known to be a resource-intensive process. With the need for powerful hardware to handle processes, many developers use AI-driven techniques instead to save costs. Some examples are real-time adjustments to lighting, shadows, and textures. By using machine learning algorithms, AI is becoming more equipped to analyze environments, predict pixels in real time and enhance visual effects and realistic simulations. With this, our experience becomes more immersive and life-like.
Here we have Nvidia testing the limits of AI algorithms.
Object Recognition
With the use of Object Recognition algorithms laying the foundations for spatial learning, VR apps are able to see objects in virtual space. They can see gestures and movements while recognizing environmental components and interact with them. With real-time tracking of gestures, this allows the users to have a sense of presence and immersion while also improving the usability and accessibility for those who need it. Many companies and video games already use Object Recognition.
Behavioral Analysis
Behavioral Analysis is a specific field of AI focuses on analyzing users' actions and behaviors. With the collective insights developed from that data, along with predictive modeling techniques, VR developers are able to collect information and analyze a user's actions, emotions and interactions with the virtual environment. By using this data, they can develop VR applications to cater to an individual user's needs, which opens the door to an improved, overall experience that leaves us with a better sense of satisfaction and engagement. I believe there is also an opportunity to collect data and contribute to the studies of mental health.
Personalizations & Customizations
Using AI algorithms, VR apps are able to track a user's behavior and actions and give user's possible personalized content, recommendations or experience that are tailored to their needs or interests. How cool would it be if there was a game that could change or adapt according to you? Personalizations can also include adaptable video game mechanics that change according to user's capabilities, customized avatar designs or even interactive virtual simulations that keep you engaged.
Closing Thoughts
There are limitless opportunities when it comes to the implementation of Artificial Intelligence. With the proper use and cautiousness, we can use it to enhance every aspect of Virtual Reality. From improving realistic simulations to crafting adaptable and unique experiences, we have much to look forward to. I believe the world will continue to rapidly advance in technology and the use of it.
