Key Takeaways:

• Non-owners are most likely to try VR headsets with friends (52.3%) rather than in stores. Simulation games, YouTube/Netflix, and action games were the top experiences tried.
• The majority of non-owners (64.5%) had a positive first VR experience. 45.95% expressed potential interest in purchasing a headset.
• For non-owners, the most appealing VR experiences are visiting new places (19.62%), attending live events (13.45%), giant movie screens (17.98%), and impossible scenarios (17.36%).
• Current headset owners use their devices for gaming, fitness, socializing, and entertainment. Over 50% use VR headsets daily.
• Most owners (60.66%) are willing to replace their TV with an advanced VR headset. Key desired features are high-resolution, apps, audio, and social experiences.
• 57.97% of owners would replace their computer with a VR headset, valuing full software compatibility and hand/eye tracking.
• VR productivity applications like virtual meetings, collaboration tools, and 3D models are appealing to owners.
• Apple is the top brand non-owners would consider purchasing from, followed by Samsung, Google, and Meta.

Introduction:
Virtual Reality (VR) has transformed the way we engage with digital content, offering immersive and interactive experiences like never before. To better understand the adoption and perception of VR, we conducted a survey to gather insights from users who have tried VR headsets. In this blog post, we will delve into the statistics and highlight key findings from the survey, providing valuable information for VR enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.

We have broken the report into a few key takeaways from current non-owners and VR intenders, or those who specifically intend to buy a VR headset in the near future, and current owners of VR headsets.

Insights from Non-Owners of VR Headsets.

Where the headset was tried. Our survey revealed that people are more likely to try VR headsets in a familiar environment. While only 13.82% preferred retail stores like Best Buy, a significant 52.30% opted to try the headsets with friends. Some individuals (12.17%) even had the opportunity to test VR at their workplace. Surprisingly, 5.26% of respondents indicated they purchased a headset but ultimately returned it.

Main experiences tried. When it came to the main experiences users delved into, the survey highlighted some interesting trends. Entertainment-related activities, such as watching YouTube or Netflix, captured the interest of 20.19% of respondents. Simulation games, including popular titles like Blades & Sorcery and Among Us, dominated with 29.20%. Action games (21.65%), fitness games like Beat Saber and Supernatural (10.22%), and social experiences found in VRChat and Rec Room (8.03%) were also among the experiences users embraced.

Overall experience using VR. Evaluating users’ overall experience, we found that VR left a positive impression on the majority. While 23.40% considered their experience extremely positive and 44.15% deemed it somewhat positive, only a small percentage (1.89%) had an extremely negative encounter. Significantly, 21.51% reported their experience as neither positive nor negative, indicating diverse perspectives.

Interest in purchasing a VR headset. The survey results showed considerable interest in owning a VR headset. While 31.27% of respondents were unconvinced, 45.95% expressed a potential interest, falling into the “maybe” category. With an affirmative response, 22.78% signaled their intent to purchase a VR headset.

Price point consideration for purchasing. Understanding the price range that users were willing to consider is crucial for VR manufacturers and developers. The survey provided insights into varying budget preferences. The largest group (26.64%) expressed a willingness to spend between $250 and $499. Possible entry-level options were also popular, with 24.71% considering a price range of $100 to $249. Surprisingly, 20.46% were open to investing $1000 or more, hinting at potential demand for higher-end VR products.

There were a few experiences that those who have tried VR found most attractive in the future. Below is a summary of the key findings of aspects of VR we tested in which consumers found most attractive.

Virtually visiting locations you have never been or cannot travel to. For the wanderlust in us, VR holds the key to unlocking extraordinary destinations. According to our survey, 19.62% of respondents were captivated by the idea of virtually visiting places they have never been or places that are simply difficult to reach. Imagine exploring ancient ruins, walking along breathtaking natural landscapes, or strolling through bustling city streets—all without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Virtually attending sports events or concerts as if you had front-row seats. Missing out on sold-out concerts or not being able to secure tickets to the big game is a thing of the past with VR. 13.45% of respondents expressed their fascination with the ability to attend sports events or concerts virtually and feel like they were right in the front row. Imagine the energy and excitement of a live performance, the cheers and roars of the crowd, all experienced from the best seat in the house.

Watch movies on what feels like a giant movie screen: Experience cinema like never before with VR’s ability to transform any space into a personal movie theater. 17.98% of respondents were enticed by the idea of watching movies on a grand scale, feeling completely immersed in the story as if they were sitting in a giant movie theater. From action-packed blockbusters to heartwarming dramas, every film becomes a captivating and larger-than-life experience.

Experiencing things otherwise impossible: One of the most intriguing aspects of VR is its power to transport us to places and situations that may be impossible in reality. 17.36% of respondents were drawn to the idea of experiencing things that defy the boundaries of our world, such as exploring the depths of the sea or venturing into the mysteries of outer space. VR can turn dreams into vivid realities, allowing us to go beyond the ordinary and embark on extraordinary adventures.

Can VR Headsets Replace any Current Technologies in our Life Today?

Would you use a VR headset for work instead of a computer? When asked if they would use a VR headset for work rather than a computer, the responses were quite diverse. While a notable portion (19.69%) said they would definitely not prefer a VR headset, the majority fell into the “might or might not” category (33.98%). The “probably not” group accounted for 23.17% of respondents, while those who were more inclined towards adopting VR for work stood at 17.76% (probably yes) and 5.41% (definitely yes). These findings suggest that although VR headsets may not completely replace computers in the workplace, there is potential for certain tasks and industries where VR could prove beneficial.

Would you replace your TV with a VR headset that provides a better experience? The idea of replacing traditional TVs with VR headsets providing an enhanced viewing experience garnered mixed responses. Roughly 50.58% of respondents expressed hesitancy towards replacing their TVs, with 20.08% stating they would definitely not do so and 30.50% leaning towards “probably not”. On the other hand, there is a significant portion (22.39%) who showed openness to the idea, falling into the “probably yes” and “definitely yes” categories with 17.37% and 5.02% respectively. These findings indicate that although the majority may not be ready to part ways with traditional TVs, a subset of individuals see the potential of VR headsets to offer a superior viewing experience.

Does the idea of having video calls in VR sound appealing to you? Considering the appeal of incorporating VR into video calls, the survey results revealed a balanced perspective. While 31.66% of respondents either said they definitely or probably would not find the idea appealing, a significant number (37.44%) were open to the possibility, falling into the “probably yes” and “definitely yes” categories. Additionally, 30.89% of participants remained neutral on the matter, indicating that the appeal of VR video calls can vary greatly among individuals. These findings suggest that, although there is some resistance and ambivalence, a considerable proportion of individuals find the concept of VR video calls appealing and are willing to explore this technology for enhanced communication experiences.

Conclusion. The question of whether VR headsets can replace existing technologies is a complex one. Our survey findings reveal a diverse range of perspectives among users. While some are reluctant or uncertain about replacing computers, TVs, or traditional video calls with VR headsets, a notable portion shows openness to the idea. These statistics suggest that VR has the potential to complement and enhance our current technologies rather than replace them entirely. As technology advances and more immersive experiences become available, it will be interesting to see how VR evolves and integrates into our daily lives, offering exciting new possibilities while coexisting with established technologies.

Looking Forward to Potential Purchase Intent from Non-VR Owners

Would you ever purchase a VR headset in the future? When non-VR owners were asked if they would consider purchasing a VR headset in the future, the responses were rather optimistic. A significant portion of respondents showed interest, with 38.61% stating they would probably purchase a VR headset and 18.53% expressing a definite intention. The group that remained unsure or neutral about future purchases stood at 29.73%, while those who were more hesitant accounted for only 10.42% (probably not) and a mere 2.7% (definitely not). These statistics suggest that many non-VR owners are open to embracing this technology and may become future VR enthusiasts.

If you are interested in a VR headset in the future, which brand would be most considered? A clear frontrunner emerged in terms of preferred brands for future VR headset purchases among non-VR owners. Apple led the pack with a substantial 55.69% of respondents indicating a preference for their brand. Although trailing behind, Samsung still garnered notable interest with 11.76% favoring their brand, followed by Google with 10.98%. Meta (formerly known as Facebook) secured 9.41% as a strong contender. It’s worth mentioning that Sony also received a considerable share of interest at 5.49%. Other brands, such as HTC, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Motorola, garnered more limited interest. These statistics indicate that, among non-VR owners, Apple is currently the most appealing brand for potential future VR headset purchases.

Conclusion. The future seems promising for the adoption of VR among non-VR owners. The survey findings suggest that a significant portion of non-VR owners are open to the idea of purchasing a VR headset, with many expressing a definite or probable intent to do so. Furthermore, when considering brand preferences, Apple emerges as the most preferred choice for future VR headset purchases, followed by Samsung, Google, and Meta. However, it is worth noting that the landscape of VR technology is constantly evolving, and the preferences of users can change as new products and innovations emerge.

As VR continues to advance and new experiences become available, it’s exciting to envision the possibilities that lie ahead. Whether it’s immersing oneself in virtual worlds, exploring new dimensions of entertainment, or unlocking new avenues for productivity, VR has the potential to reshape our digital experiences. As non-VR owners become increasingly interested in this technology, it will be intriguing to witness how brands cater to their expectations and entice them to take the leap into the immersive world of virtual reality.

Key Insights and Takeaways from Current VR Headset Owners

By analyzing survey statistics on the various use cases and usage frequency of VR headsets, as well as changes in usage since the initial purchase, we aim to provide insights into the diverse applications and evolving habits of VR enthusiasts.

Which use cases have you tried/used on your VR headset? Among the VR headset owners surveyed, a range of exciting use cases emerged. Simulation games and action games each captured 22.92% and 22.79% of respondents’ interest, respectively, suggesting a preference for immersive gaming experiences. Fitness games, involving physical activity, such as Beat Saber and Supernatural, were utilized by 17.99% of users, highlighting VR’s potential in promoting a healthy lifestyle. Social experiences were enjoyed by 16.71% of respondents, with VRChat and Rec Room being popular choices for connecting with others in virtual spaces. Additionally, 19.14% of users reported using their VR headsets for entertainment purposes, such as watching YouTube or Netflix. These findings indicate the versatility of VR headsets, catering to a wide range of interests and providing unique experiences beyond traditional gaming.

How often do you use your headset? When it comes to frequency of use, the statistics revealed a high level of engagement among VR headset owners. An impressive 53.03% reported using their headset almost every day, demonstrating the substantial integration of VR into their daily lives. A significant portion, 29.81%, utilized their headset a couple of times a week, further emphasizing frequent engagement. With 5.55% using their headset once a week, 3.99% every few weeks, and 1.82% once a month, it is evident that VR headsets receive consistent attention from their owners. Only a small percentage, 5.81%, reported using their headset less than once a month. These findings underscore the active and regular usage habits of VR headset owners, highlighting the ongoing interest and value they find in this technology.

Compared to when you first purchased your headset, which best describes your current usage? An intriguing aspect to explore was the evolution of headset usage over time. The majority of respondents, 58.75%, indicated that they use their VR headset more often than when they first purchased it. This indicates a growing appreciation and integration of VR technology into their routines. Additionally, 24.87% reported using their headset just as much as initially, suggesting a sustained level of engagement. A smaller proportion, 6.41%, stated that they use their headset somewhat less than before, while 3.38% reported a significant decrease in usage. However, it is important to note that a notable 6.59% indicated that they hardly use their VR headset anymore. These findings suggest that while the majority of owners have become more engaged with their VR headsets, a small group may have lost interest or found alternative sources of entertainment.

Conclusion. The survey results shed light on the diverse applications and usage habits of VR headset owners. From simulation and action games to fitness experiences, social interactions, and entertainment, VR headsets offer a wide array of immersive possibilities. The findings also highlight the high frequency of usage among owners, with a significant proportion using their headset almost every day. It’s encouraging to see that the majority of respondents indicate an increased usage compared to the time of purchase, revealing a growing appreciation for virtual reality. However, it’s important to acknowledge that a small percentage of owners may face waning interest or competing entertainment options. As VR technology continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to witness how these trends unfold and how VR headsets enhance the digital experiences of users in the future.

Are Current VR Owners More Likely to Replace Current Technologies with VR Headsets?

By analyzing survey results on the willingness to replace TVs and personal computers (PCs) with more advanced VR headsets, as well as the necessary features for consideration, we aim to highlight the potential of VR as a transformative technology.

Replacing the TV with a more advanced VR headset. Among VR headset owners, an overwhelming majority displayed a strong willingness to replace their TVs with more advanced VR headsets. A staggering 60.66% responded with a definitive “Definitely yes,” while an additional 19.50% leaned towards replacing their TVs. This indicates that VR owners perceive the immersive experience provided by headsets to be a viable alternative to traditional television viewing. Only a small percentage, 4.42%, firmly stated “Definitely not.”

Features necessary for replacing the TV with a VR headset. When considering the key features that respondents deemed necessary for replacing their TVs with VR headsets, several factors emerged. The highest percentage, 21.77%, emphasized the importance of at least 4K resolution to ensure a high-quality visual experience. More apps and content options were deemed crucial by 16.93% of participants, while an immersive audio experience and a better social immersive experience for watching content with others each garnered approximately 18% of the responses. Additionally, 16.05% expressed a desire for 3D video support. It is evident that VR headset owners value a combination of visual, audio, and social features when considering replacing their TVs.

Replacing the personal computer with a more advanced VR headset. In terms of replacing personal computers, VR headset owners again displayed a significant willingness to embrace this transition. A notable 57.97% firmly stated “Definitely yes,” while a further 21.84% expressed a leaning towards replacing their PCs. As with replacing TVs, a relatively small percentage, 4.51%, firmly stated “Definitely not.”

Necessary features for replacing the PC with a VR headset. Respondents highlighted several key aspects among the features considered vital for replacing personal computers with VR headsets. The highest percentage, 27.18%, emphasized the importance of full support with their Mac or PC and all supported software to ensure a seamless integration of the VR headset with their existing workflows. A sizable proportion, 20.12%, highlighted the necessity of a high-resolution display (4K/5K), while immersive audio was valued by 12.41% of the participants. Additionally, support for eye and hand tracking to eliminate the need for controllers gained traction, with 14.83% of respondents expressing interest. Overall, VR headset owners seek a combination of technical compatibility, visual quality, and intuitive user interfaces when considering a replacement for their personal computers.

VR/AR headset applications for work or productivity purposes. In terms of work or productivity-related applications, VR headset owners displayed diverse interests. Among the surveyed participants, 26.00% expressed interest in virtual meetings, utilizing platforms like Teams or Zoom to enhance collaboration. Virtual collaboration/whiteboarding was identified as a key use case for 17.44% of respondents while using multiple virtual monitors for workflow gained interest from 20.68% of participants. Having applications appear on a big screen was valued by 19.90% of respondents while interacting with virtual 3D models captured the attention of 15.29%. It is evident that VR headset owners recognize the potential of this technology to revolutionize work and productivity, enabling immersive and collaborative experiences.

Conclusion: The statistics clearly indicate that current VR headset owners are more willing to replace traditional technologies, such as TVs and personal computers, with more advanced VR headsets. The prospect of an immersive experience and the potential for innovative features have captured their interest and enthusiasm. The desire for high-resolution displays, immersive audio, and social immersive experiences emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive sensory experience. When considering work or productivity-related applications, VR headset owners are intrigued by virtual meetings, collaboration tools, virtual monitors, and 3D model interactions. These findings highlight the transformative potential of VR technology, suggesting a future where VR headsets may become integral to various aspects of our daily lives. As VR technology continues to advance, it will be fascinating to see how it evolves and how individuals embrace this immersive and interactive medium.

Current Pain Points for VR Owners

Comfort and Weight. One of the pain points 12.39% of respondents reported was the discomfort and heaviness of their VR headsets. VR enthusiasts often engage in prolonged sessions, and discomfort can deter them from fully immersing themselves into the virtual world. Manufacturers can address this by focusing on ergonomic design, lighter materials, and adjustable headbands to enhance comfort and reduce the strain on the user’s head and face.

Awareness of the Surroundings. A significant percentage of respondents, 14.25%, felt it was hard to sense what was happening around them while wearing their VR headset. This lack of awareness can lead to safety concerns and hinder the overall experience. Manufacturers should explore solutions such as incorporating external sensors or cameras to provide users with a better understanding of their surroundings without compromising the immersive nature of VR.

Collisions and Navigation. Approximately 15.04% of users reported walking into or bumping into objects while using their VR headsets. This issue stems from the limited visibility of the real-world environment while immersed in VR. To address this, manufacturers can invest in developing more advanced tracking systems using external sensors or implementing augmented reality (AR) pass-through technology to overlay virtual objects onto the real world, reducing the risk of accidents while maintaining the immersive experience.

Display Quality. Another common pain point reported by 12.10% of respondents was the visibility of pixels on the screen, which can diminish the overall visual experience. Manufacturers should strive to improve display technology, opting for higher pixel densities and reducing the screen-door effect. Advancements in screen technology, such as micro-LED or OLED displays, may help mitigate this issue and deliver a more immersive and visually appealing experience.

Headaches. VR-induced headaches were expressed as a concern by 14.11% of respondents. This discomfort can be attributed to factors such as the weight of the headset, improper IPD (interpupillary distance) calibration, or the user’s susceptibility to motion sickness. Manufacturers should provide better guidelines for headset adjustment, offer customizable fit options, and invest in technologies that reduce motion sickness to alleviate this pain point.

Pass-Through and Battery Life. A notable percentage of respondents, 9.44% and 13.43%, respectively, expressed dissatisfaction with their VR headsets’ pass-through functionality (black and white) and battery life. These features play important roles in user comfort and convenience. Developers should prioritize the enhancement of pass-through capabilities to provide more seamless transitions between virtual and real worlds. Additionally, advancements in battery technology are crucial to ensure longer playtimes without frequent recharging.

User Interface.  A smaller percentage, 6.25%, found the user interface of their VR headset to be unintuitive. The fact that only 6.25% of respondents found the user interface of their VR headset to be unintuitive is encouraging news for VR adoption. User interface plays a crucial role in determining the accessibility and ease of use of any technology. A low percentage of users reporting issues with the user interface suggests that VR headset manufacturers are making significant strides in designing intuitive interfaces that require minimal effort to navigate. This positive feedback can inspire confidence among potential users who may have been hesitant to explore VR due to concerns about complex or confusing interfaces. By providing an intuitive user experience, VR headset manufacturers are removing barriers to entry and opening the doors for a wider audience to embrace this captivating technology. As the user interface improves, VR can become more accessible and user-friendly, driving increased adoption and mainstream acceptance.

Highlights from Meta Oculus Quest Owners and the Features They were Most Satisfied With 

Battery Life. Battery life emerged as one of the most satisfying features, with an impressive 46.58% of respondents expressing high satisfaction. VR users value being able to enjoy extended playtime without interruption. The positive response indicates that manufacturers have made significant advancements in optimizing power consumption, extending battery life, and ensuring that users can fully immerse themselves in the virtual world without frequent recharging.

Hardware Design. The design of VR headsets also received high satisfaction ratings, with 42.17% of respondents expressing their satisfaction. Comfortable and aesthetically pleasing hardware designs contribute to an overall pleasant user experience. Manufacturers have invested in ergonomic designs, lightweight materials, and adjustable headbands to enhance comfort during extended use. The positive feedback highlights the success in merging both style and functionality.

App/Game Selection. The availability and variety of apps and games were another source of high satisfaction, with 46.31% of respondents expressing their contentment. A vast selection of quality applications and engaging games are essential to keeping VR owners entertained and continuously exploring new experiences. Developers and app stores have curated diverse libraries that cater to different interests, effectively attracting and retaining users, while also fostering the growth of the VR ecosystem.

Controllers. VR controllers prove to be a well-loved feature, with 46.33% of respondents expressing high satisfaction. Intuitive and responsive controllers play a crucial role in facilitating user interaction with the virtual environment. The positive feedback suggests that manufacturers have made significant improvements in controller design and functionality, enabling precise and natural movements, enhancing immersion and user engagement.

Display Quality. The visual quality of VR headsets also garnered high satisfaction ratings, with 47.46% of respondents expressing their satisfaction. VR owners appreciate immersive experiences with crisp and vibrant displays, where they can fully appreciate the virtual world’s details. Manufacturers have made strides in improving display technologies, such as higher resolutions and reduced screen-door effects, leading to heightened user satisfaction.

Conclusion and Report Summary

Based on the survey results, current VR owners are more likely to replace their current technologies, such as TVs and personal computers, with more advanced VR headsets. Among VR headset owners, a majority of respondents expressed a strong willingness to replace their TVs (at 60.66%) and personal computers (at 57.97%) with more advanced VR headsets. This indicates that VR owners perceive the immersive experience provided by headsets to be a viable alternative to traditional television viewing and computer usage.

When considering the necessary features for replacing TVs with VR headsets, respondents emphasized the importance of at least 4K resolution (21.77%), more apps and content options (16.93%), immersive audio experience (approximately 18%), and a better social immersive experience for watching content with others (approximately 18%). Additionally, 16.05% of respondents expressed a desire for 3D video support. This shows that VR headset owners value a combination of visual, audio, and social features when considering replacing their TVs.

For replacing personal computers with VR headsets, respondents emphasized the importance of full support with their Mac or PC and all supported software (27.18%), high-resolution display (4K/5K) (20.12%), immersive audio (12.41%), and support for eye and hand tracking to eliminate the need for controllers (14.83%). VR headset owners seek a combination of technical compatibility, visual quality, and intuitive user interfaces when considering a replacement for their personal computers.

In terms of work or productivity-related applications, VR headset owners expressed interest in virtual meetings utilizing platforms like Teams or Zoom (26.00%), virtual collaboration/whiteboarding (17.44%), using multiple virtual monitors for workflow (20.68%), having applications appear on a big screen (19.90%), and interacting with virtual 3D models (15.29%). This suggests that VR owners recognize the potential of VR headsets to revolutionize work and productivity.

Although the majority of current VR owners are interested in replacing their current technologies with VR headsets, it’s important to acknowledge that a small percentage of owners may face waning interest or competing entertainment options.

Overall, the survey results highlight the transformative potential of VR technology, indicating that VR headsets may become integral to various aspects of our daily lives. Manufacturers can address some pain points reported by VR owners, such as discomfort and weight, awareness of surroundings, collisions and navigation, display quality, headaches, pass-through and battery life, and user interface, to enhance the overall user experience and drive increased adoption and mainstream acceptance of VR technology. The survey also highlights positive feedback regarding features such as battery life, hardware design, app/game selection, controllers, and display quality, indicating that manufacturers have made significant advancements in these areas and have successfully catered to VR owners’ preferences and satisfaction levels.

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