In the image above, we break down the main components of the headset. As depicted on the left side of the image, essentially VR technology stimulates settings and environments that conform to people's expectations of reality. On the right-hand side, we have all the technical components that allow the Oculus Quest 2 virtual reality headset to function. The tracking system and the controller are two inputs to the headset. Based on the information received, the images are constantly being processed, adjusted, and then displayed to create virtual environments that are realistic enough to trick people's minds. Overall, the map allows one to understand how all of the components of the headset are necessary for one to be immersed in the Metaverse. Learn more about the headset's tech specs here!

 

The Oculus currently only supports Meta proprietary software. Upon powering the device on by pressing the button on the right side of the headset, one is greeted with the Meta logo as the device starts up. Once on, one would need to use one of the controllers to delineate if they’re stationary (sitting down) or if they’ll be standing and define the safe place where no objects would be hit as well as where the height of the floor. After defining boundaries, one has the option to pinch their fingers in front of their face while pointing at the desired menu item. The Oculus has an array of apps to select from, ranging from productivity to entertainment, very much like a smartphone/smart tv. The Horizons Workrooms app is created by Meta and takes online collaboration to another level. Upon downloading the app and opening it, one can create an avatar that represents them and customize their office space from a building in the city to an office overlooking a lake. The Workrooms app allows one to be able to complete most tasks that one can complete on their computer. If one’s team members are using a virtual headset, they’ll emerge as an avatar in the office and appear very realistically.  There’s a whiteboard where team members can jot ideas, brainstorm product backlogs, and iterate projects using their controller. The Workrooms app has an interoperability feature of being able to video conference with team members who are using their computers as opposed to a headset and they’ll appear in a dedicated section of the office space. The hardware and software allow for one to use select keyboards that are compatible so that one can type as if they were in the office, this is the intensive use of the four cameras and artificial intelligence software. In addition to being able to speak as if on Zoom, which will be integrated into the workroom app in 2023, one can share their calendar and files, as well as utilize existing 2-dimensional software such as Mural, Dropbox, and Slack. One can also take advantage of the browser to research topics of interest over the internet. The options are limitless when it comes to integrating Metaverse as an alternative to remote work.

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The only drawbacks for immediate integration arise from the battery life of the headset, privacy concerns, and lack of awareness around the array of tasks that can be done. If one doesn't connect the oculus headset to a computer using a $70 cable, usage is limited to 2-3 hours depending on the tasks that need to be completed. We predict that as the technology evolves the battery life will improve. Our research discovered that some privacy concerns may be standing in the way of integration. For instance, the technology allows for a project lead to be alerted if team members in another meeting mention something in relation to their project. Also, if someone rolls their eyes during a team meeting, a leader can be alerted of such activity. The data being tracked while participating in the metaverse has limited government oversight which puts one or an organization at a significantly higher risk. Lastly, the lack of awareness over what the metaverse is, what can be done in the metaverse, and how one can use it to improve their experience at work needs to be combatted through education of key influencers among corporate organizations. This would inherently encourage adoption and serve as a snowball effect in the use cases. 

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