Trend

Virtual Reality

Technological advances present opportunities to bolster health care, as innovations in virtual reality and immersive technologies are already offering valuable tools for addressing trauma and mental health concerns. jxfzsy/E+/Getty Images.

About This Trend

Virtual reality (VR) applications and platforms continue to develop, and the global smart glasses market value is growing. The 2024 release of Apple's Vision Pro signaled the extent of development in the "spatial computing" field and the idea that glasses will be used as a daily tool.

VR is also being used in the mental health space to combat social anxiety and even help Parkinson’s patients. Immersive technologies offer innovative tools to enhance community engagement, but planners should be aware that these tech-intensive tools often demand broader interdisciplinary expertise and collaboration with diverse teams to achieve optimal results. Read PAS QuickNotes 98, "Extended Reality for Planning," to learn more about how to use virtual technologies to improve the real world.

Trend Category:
Technology

Timeframe: Prepare