In modern history, the military has often acted as an instigator for civilian technological innovation. For example, the precursor to the internet was first funded by the United States Department of Defense in 1969, allowing inter-computer communication through a unified network. The project was decommissioned by the DOD in 1989, thereby paving the way for the civilian internet’s launch in 1990.
Private-sector tech innovations since then have been dramatic, ranging from Bitcoin, Google search, deepfakes and ChatGPT to virtual worlds, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology. This is particularly relevant in light of 2021’s hype over the so-called metaverse and speculation on how AR/VR will revolutionize modern life.
What many do not recognize is that the military is taking a healthy lead in AR and VR technology. Microsoft’s Hololens IVAS (Integrated Visual Augmentation System) will be delivered to U.S. soldiers in the field this year, providing soldiers with a battlefield experience that is akin to popular first-person shooter games like Call of Duty and Battlefield. The commercial version of the Hololens is also expected to launch soon and promises to be game-changing for AR/VR-compatible gaming systems.
Aside from gaming, AR/VR tech has already been effectively utilized to provide more immersive, realistic simulations for firefighting, police training, disaster relief, vehicle maintenance and for other professions that require life-like practice. What’s more, the South Korean Army has recently implemented AR and VR simulations for its army cadets, a move which enabled them to save costs on large-scale drills while mitigating injuries and accidents at the same time.
In a civilian capacity, AR/VR technology may soon have shoppers entering a FootLocker store and using an AR headset with a basketball and a mini hardwood court to simulate their ideal shoe-buying experience and getting a realistic idea of how the shoes will look combined with other accessories. The possibilities are limitless when it comes to immersive retail experiences.
Ultimately, it is the military’s incredible use of AR/VR today that could come to define the metaverse of tomorrow for civilians. Big Tech companies are already investing heavily in the development of the necessary hardware infrastructure, and all that is left is for software engineers and Web3 developers to catch up. With the advancements in AR and VR research, who knows how consumer life will be improved or, at least, made more entertaining.
Microsoft is a multinational technological company that develops and sells consumer electronics, software, etc. It is known for creating the Windows operating system and its other related products such as Microsoft Office, Skype, Xbox and Bing. Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Washington, Microsoft has grown to become one of the world’s largest companies and has become a leader in the field of technology and innovation.
The President and Chief Legal Officer of Microsoft is Brad Smith, who is also the company’s Executive Vice President of Business development. Smith has been a key figure in the company’s transformation from a computer maker to a global technology leader. He leads the company’s leadership and legal functions, which includes providing strategic guidance, protecting and advancing the company’s reputation and defending the interests of the company and its customers. In addition, he is responsible for Microsoft’s sustainability and social investments, as well as its Artificial Intelligence and Augmented and Virtual Reality initiatives. He has been instrumental in establishing Microsoft’s position in the AI/AR/VR sector, and has been integral in driving innovation in the sector and helping the company prepare for the potential of the metaverse.
