Virtual Reality
Articles tagged with Virtual Reality
Researchers find virtual reality intervention improves interactions between autistic individuals and police officers
A new virtual reality intervention improved interactions between autistic teens and adults with law enforcement officers, reducing fidgeting and increasing positive behavior. The study showed significant improvements in the virtual reality group compared to a video modeling intervention.
USF study finds kids don’t use augmented reality like adults, raising concerns for classrooms
A USF study finds that children ages 9 to 12 engage with AR headsets in a more exploratory and intuitive way than adults, highlighting a mismatch between adult-designed systems and child-centered design. This difference has implications for educational applications of AR, which may require more flexible and creative interaction methods.
$1 million U.S. Department of Justice grant will support virtual reality training for domestic violence response
A virtual reality training program will strengthen interprofessional responses to domestic violence, reducing risks for first responders and victims. The program, led by George Mason University researchers, partners with law enforcement, social work organizations, and healthcare providers.
Can hyper-real virtual worlds make us feel better?
A recent study from Murdoch University suggests that certain design elements in virtual reality environments can induce positive emotional states, including awe, joy, and calm. The research highlights the potential of virtual reality to be used for mental health and stress reduction, nature-based wellbeing, and education.
JMIR Publications names Dr. Amy Shirong Lu as Editor-in-Chief of JMIR Serious Games
Dr Amy Shirong Lu joins JMIR Serious Games as Editor-in-Chief with extensive research on digital health technologies and their impact on physical activity and cognitive health.
When smell meets virtual reality: wearable olfactory device for a realistic VR experience
Researchers developed a wearable scent display that can blend up to eight fragrances in real time, enhancing immersive virtual experiences. The device uses advanced components to precisely control odor intensity and delivery.
Origami-inspired fabric makes one cloth act as many VR controllers
Researchers have developed a reconfigurable textile interface that supports flat touch, folded 3D manipulation, and shape-change commands. The 'one cloth, many states' framework reduces the need to swap props and recalibrate alignment, making it promising for constrained-space operation training and human-machine interaction scenarios.
New technique turns everyday surfaces like walls and desks into touch panels
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a method to transform regular surfaces into keyboards for AR/MR technology, using the blanching phenomenon to detect fingertip contact. The system requires no special sensors or devices and allows users to rest their fingers on the surface during operation, promoting comfortable interaction.
Wristband enables wearers to control a robotic hand with their own movements
Researchers at MIT have developed an ultrasound wristband that precisely tracks hand movements, allowing users to control a robotic hand or manipulate virtual objects. The device produces high-quality images of the wrist's muscles and tendons, which are then translated into specific hand positions, enabling precise movement control.
VR could reduce anxiety for people undergoing medical procedures
A new study suggests that using virtual reality (VR) to explain medical procedures can help patients better understand their treatment and reduce anxiety. The research tested VR as part of the consent process for a procedure to treat kidney stones, with patients reporting improved understanding and reduced anxiety after the experience.
University develops VR app to tackle violence against women and girls
A new VR app is being developed to tackle violence against women and girls, using virtual reality to raise awareness and educate people about harassment. The app places users in realistic scenarios commonly experienced by women, aiming to educate people about attitudes and behaviours towards women and girls.
Augmented reality job coaching boosts performance by 79% for people with disabilities
A new study found that augmented reality job coaching significantly improves job performance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The AR-based application delivered real-time guidance, enabling participants to complete complex tasks with minimal external support. This innovative approach has the potential t...
Virtual reality games can increase a player’s desire to help others
A study from the University of Oregon found that virtual reality games can increase players' sense of altruism and influence levels of empathy. Participants in the game 'Empathy in Action' showed higher ratings of cognitive empathy but a decline in affective empathy, suggesting that players may feel motivated to help without directly e...
George Mason Univeristy and local governments partner to employ VR training for crisis management
Researchers at George Mason University are developing an AI-enabled virtual reality training program for Crisis Response Teams to manage substance use crises. The program aims to enhance team members' expertise during a crisis response and post-crisis event, aligning with the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority's mission to address the...
Families want more research on how virtual reality may affect kids
A new study found that families prioritize VR features increasing physical activity over educational content, highlighting the need for research-based information on VR's impact on children. Families also emphasize the importance of safety controls to detect bullying or harassment on VR platforms.
Variety: Spice of life or risk factor for overeating?
A new study conducted by researchers at Penn State found that the presence of a higher variety of foods in a buffet increases both the weight and calories of food selected. Participants who visited buffets with more food options chose higher-calorie dense foods, leading to increased calorie consumption.
How much can an autonomous robotic arm feel like part of the body
A virtual reality study found that a moderate movement speed of an autonomous prosthetic arm produces the most positive impressions on body ownership, agency, and usability. Faster or slower speeds reduce these feelings, with discomfort highest in the fastest condition.
The brain uses eye movements to see in 3D
Researchers at the University of Rochester found that the brain analyzes global patterns of image motion caused by eye movements to understand how objects move and where they are located in 3D space. This discovery challenges conventional ideas that image motion produced by eye movements is visual noise to be subtracted off.
"Where are you going all alone?" Men as victims of verbal harassment through virtual reality
A recent study using virtual reality found that men who embodied a female avatar subjected to catcalling experienced strong feelings of anger and disgust, closely linked to moral disapproval. This type of reaction reflects the ability to put oneself in the victim's shoes and indicates moral disapproval of the behavior.
Vision-impaired individuals estimate the arrival time of approaching vehicles surprisingly
A new international study found that people with central vision loss can judge the motion of vehicles almost as accurately as those with normal vision. When both visual and auditory information were available, the two groups showed comparable accuracy in estimating the arrival time of approaching vehicles. The research, published in PL...
MASTER 2nd Open Call: Execution period kick-off
The European Science Communication Institute launched its 2nd MASTER Open Call in April 2025. The selected projects will focus on validating and applying XR-based solutions to enhance learning experiences.
UNCG is one of three universities selected to launch regional virtual reality center
UNCG will establish an extended reality center with HTC VIVE and Virtualware funding, driving innovative research and workforce development in the region. The center will offer a collaborative, group-based learning environment for students and industry partners to explore new immersive technologies.
The avatar in a wheelchair
Researchers investigate how people with disabilities feel when their avatars depict them the way they see themselves. Most participants reported positive feedback when their avatar reflected their disability, and many felt comfortable expressing their identity in virtual reality.
New augmented reality tech can turn any surface into keyboard
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed PropType, a unique interface that transforms everyday objects into typing surfaces within an AR environment. This technology leverages tactile feedback to reduce reliance on visual cues and provides an alternative to traditional keyboards.
VR headsets may make dry eye less likely: World's first time-course observation during a VR session
Researchers observed significant increase in tear film lipid layer thickness and corneal temperature during VR sessions, suggesting stabilization of the tear film. The study provides early insights for VR headset design and usage considerations related to eye comfort and health.
Metasurfaces show promise in boosting AR image clarity and brightness
A new metasurface design improves the brightness and image quality of augmented reality (AR) glasses by reducing light loss and preserving shape. The technology has potential applications beyond AR, such as automotive and aerospace head-up displays.
Cambridge VR wins Best Startup at the Global EdTech Awards for breakthrough VR anxiety treatment
Cambridge scientist Dr Chris Macdonald creates the most effective treatment for public speaking fear using VR overexposure therapy. The platform has demonstrated remarkable results in reducing anxiety and improving performance.
Korean researchers’ single memristor replaces both the driving transistor and storage capacitor in micro-LED
A team of Korean researchers has successfully integrated a single memristor into micro-LED pixels, replacing the traditional driving transistor and storage capacitor. This innovation enables more efficient and easier-to-build displays with improved brightness and color accuracy.
Under embargo: We learn physical skills by feeling rewarded, even in the absence of a reward, finds new study
Researchers discovered that people master new physical skills like sports or driving by combining lessons from error feedback and rewards, even with cues removed. The brain uses both feedback types in a mixed learning pattern, not separate processes as previously thought.
Virtual reality helps people understand and care about distant communities
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals how virtual reality can close the distance between people and climate change-driven damages in faraway places. Participants who experienced VR experiences developed stronger feelings of attachment and concern for the places they visited, leading to increased motivation for constructiv...
George Mason-led study highlights how XR is reshaping health care training across the country
A new national study highlights the potential of extended reality (XR) in healthcare training, offering experiences that might otherwise be missed. However, poorly designed programs can overwhelm students, while trained faculty, technical support, and sustainable funding are essential for successful implementation.
New study explores the use of VR in reducing stress in young adults with diabetes
Researchers at Wayne State University are exploring the feasibility and acceptability of virtual reality-based Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) as a tool to reduce stress in young adults with type 1 diabetes. The study aims to assess the effects of MBSR-VR on glycemic control, mindfulness, and psychological distress.
This digital hand enables hands-free virtual reality
Researchers developed HandProxy, a software that allows users to interact with virtual spaces by commanding a disembodied hand. The AI-powered hand can perform complex tasks without being explicitly told every step, making it more flexible than current VR voice-command features.
Virtual reality can reduce anxiety in patients undergoing interventional cardiovascular procedure
A new analysis found that virtual reality effectively reduced anxiety during coronary angiography and had more stable vital signs than standard care. VR was superior to standard care in reducing anxiety and associated with significantly lower changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
MSU researchers explore how virtual sports aid mental health
Researchers found that playing virtual reality sports games can promote psychological well-being by helping players feel connected to others and engage in real-time communication. The positive effects of feeling socially present were even stronger for those experiencing loneliness.
Flexible, skin-mounted haptic interface can seamlessly bridge virtual and real-world experiences
A flexible skin-mounted haptic interface can replicate diverse motions using a single actuator, providing rich tactile feedback and versatility. The technology aims to assist humans in various applications, including wearable human-machine interfaces and medical operations.
Erasing the seams between the virtual and physical worlds
Computer scientists at Princeton University are working on a system that pairs virtual reality with a physical robot, allowing users to seamlessly interact with the physical world. The technology enables tasks like selecting an object across the room or erasing physical objects from view, creating a more immersive experience.
Identifying a compass in the human brain
Two brain regions have been identified as a neural compass, allowing people to maintain their sense of direction while navigating naturalistic virtual reality cities. These regions are consistent across different city features and task phases, suggesting they track direction relative to the north-south axis.
Virtual reality shows promise in easing stress for cardiac patients, UCLA Health study finds
A new study from UCLA Health suggests that virtual reality (VR) may offer a promising tool to ease psychological stress and support heart health. After a VR session, many patients experienced a significant impact on their psychological state, with reduced anxiety and increased vagal tone.
VR nature scenes reduce sensitivity to pain – especially for those who feel present during the experience
A study by the University of Exeter found that immersive VR nature scenes can reduce symptoms of long-term pain. Participants who felt more present during the experience experienced the strongest effects. The study suggests that nature scenes delivered using VR can help change how pain signals are transmitted in the brain and spinal cord.
Self-disclosure in the era of video communication and embodied virtual reality
A team of researchers from Waseda University investigated the effects of new communication media, including video-conferencing and embodied virtual reality, on self-disclosure. They found that embodied VR, especially with unrealistic avatars, resulted in higher self-disclosure of personal feelings compared to face-to-face conversations.
Treatment with Virtual Reality works quickly and effectively for psychosis
A recent study suggests that virtual reality therapy is effective in treating psychosis, working faster than current cognitive behavioral therapy. The treatment involves exposing patients to simulated social situations to reduce avoidance behavior and anxiety.
Virtual reality could help stroke survivors regain movement
A Cochrane review found that virtual reality (VR) can help stroke survivors regain arm movement and increase therapy time. VR may also improve balance and reduce activity limitations, but effects on mobility and quality of life are uncertain.
New virtual reality training tool combats contamination of portable medical equipment
Researchers at Mass General Brigham have developed a virtual reality training tool to teach clinicians core concepts in infection control, including cleaning and disinfecting portable medical equipment. The pilot study found that 88.6% of participants reported an overall positive experience with the VR module.
Rice University students win top prize in global design contest with cutting-edge haptic wristband
Rice University students have developed a cutting-edge wearable haptic wristband that can deliver two distinct forms of tactile feedback. The device aims to make virtual reality more immersive and accessible, and is entirely self-contained with a modular design that makes it easy to repair and integrate into different environments.
Happy to hand over the keys to a robot? Augmented reality might help
A new study found that augmented reality can significantly increase trust in autonomous vehicles by adding, modifying or removing driving-related information. The technology uses sensors to deliver real-time data, ensuring drivers stay focused on the road while accessing critical info.
Brain mechanisms that distinguish imagination from reality discovered
A new study published in Neuron has identified a brain region, the fusiform gyrus, as key to distinguishing between real and imagined experiences. The region's strength of activity can predict whether someone judges an experience as real or imagined.
MSU study: Virtual reality beneficial for remote instruction — but there’s a time limit
A new MSU study reveals that virtual reality can enhance social connection and student outcomes during classroom instruction, but only until virtual meeting fatigue sets in. The optimal VR duration varies between students, ranging from 20 to 280 minutes.
Five things to do in virtual reality – and five to avoid
Virtual reality can be used sparingly and thoughtfully for intense experiences like travel and learning surgery, but its value fades with mundane activities. The medium is not suitable for anonymity or precision movements.
Imaging technique removes the effect of water in underwater scenes
Researchers have developed an image-analysis tool called SeaSplat that cuts through the ocean's optical effects and generates images of underwater environments with accurate colors. The team paired SeaSplat with a computational model to convert images into three-dimensional underwater worlds, allowing for virtual exploration.
Learning as an adventure: The lecture theatre in the spaceship
Project Chimera combines a VR computer game with educational problems to convey scientific content in a motivating way. The game enables players to develop a desire for learning through story-based exploration of physics, mechanical engineering, and other subjects.
KAIST's pioneering VR precision technology & choreography tool receives spotlights at CHI 2025
Researchers developed T2IRay, a VR input method with precise object pointing, and ChoreoCraft, a virtual reality tool supporting choreographers' creativity. These technologies received Honorable Mention awards at CHI 2025 for their contributions to human-computer interaction.
Extended reality boccia shows positive rehabilitation effects
A space-saving version of boccia, called Boccia XR, has been developed as a rehabilitation program for older adults. Participants showed improved moods, vitality, and energy after experiencing both Boccia XR and traditional boccia, with increased muscle activity in the rectus femoris during both types of boccia.
One glass, full color: sub-millimeter waveguide shrinks AR glasses
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) have developed an achromatic metagrating that handles all colors in a single glass layer, eliminating the need for multiple layers. This breakthrough enables vivid full-color images using a 500-µm-thick single-layer waveguide.
MASTER project launches second open call: up to €100,000 to bring your educational XR content to life
The MASTER project invites educational institutions to develop innovative XR educational content and validate cutting-edge XR technologies in real settings. Selected applicants will receive financial support, access to advanced XR tools, and expert mentorship.
Making virtual reality more accessible
Researchers created MotionBlocks to decrease barriers in VR for people with mobility limitations, allowing users to customize game controls to fit their movements. The tool was tested with positive feedback from participants, who reported greater enjoyment and less fatigue.
Researchers develop a novel vote-based model for more accurate hand-held object pose estimation
Researchers developed a novel vote-based model for accurate hand-held object pose estimation, addressing issues with existing approaches. The new framework achieves significant improvements in accuracy and robustness, enabling robots to handle complex objects and advancing AR technologies.
Researchers find temporary anxiety impacts learning
Researchers used a virtual reality game to investigate how brief anxiety impacts spatial learning and threat recognition. Participants who learned to distinguish between safe and dangerous areas showed better spatial memory and lower anxiety.
VR/AR could help people manage everyday stressors
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University are developing a VR/AR system to simulate stressful situations, allowing users to practice stress-relief strategies in a realistic environment. The system was tested on a group of participants, who found it helpful in gaining awareness and learning self-sufficiency skills.