In the industrial sector, virtual reality (VR) has achieved significant success and is now considered a mature technology. Yaron Lanier, often regarded as the father of virtual reality, has played a pivotal role in shaping this field. He believes that the applications of VR in industries will surpass those in the consumer market. In this "post-Jobs" era, he emphasizes the need for more innovation and practical applications beyond just the hype.
Lanier's contributions to the development of immersive avatars, VR headsets, and early medical imaging techniques have laid the groundwork for today’s advancements. He was instrumental in popularizing the concept of virtual reality, making it more than just a futuristic idea. His work continues to influence how we perceive and use technology today.
While VR has found its place in industries such as healthcare, engineering, and training, the consumer market still faces challenges. Lanier acknowledges that products like the Power Glove were once exciting but may not have reached their full potential. However, he remains optimistic about the future of VR, especially when it comes to tools that enhance human capabilities rather than just entertain.
In an interview with Business Insider, Lanier discussed various topics, including his recent book, *The Dawn of New Things*, which explores his experiences in Silicon Valley and the evolution of virtual reality. He also touched on the debate around social media's impact on society, his transition from Google to Microsoft, and his views on artificial intelligence.
When asked about skeptics of VR, Lanier emphasized that the technology has already arrived, particularly in the industrial space. He shared a personal story about surgical simulators, which he helped develop in the 1980s. These tools have saved lives and improved outcomes, proving the real-world value of VR.
Regarding the consumer market, he acknowledged the success of Sony’s PS VR and the popularity of games like *Pokémon Go*. While these developments are promising, he believes the true potential of mixed reality lies in broader applications that go beyond entertainment.
Lanier also commented on companies like Magic Leap and Microsoft’s HoloLens, expressing hope for innovation while stressing the importance of competition and multiple suppliers in the market. He admitted that joining Microsoft was unexpected, given his past criticisms of the company, but he found the environment at Microsoft to be both exciting and innovative.
He also raised concerns about the lack of cognitive diversity in Silicon Valley, suggesting that homogeneity can limit creativity and lead to biased technologies. His book *You Are Not a Tool* highlights the dangers of technology that dehumanizes users, and he remains critical of addictive design practices used by major tech companies.
Lanier believes that the current model of free online services, supported by advertising, is flawed. He advocates for a system where users pay for the content they consume, similar to how Netflix operates. This would create a more sustainable and fair digital ecosystem.
He also spoke about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence, arguing that AI is not an independent entity but rather a tool developed by humans. He warns against treating machines as if they possess consciousness or autonomy, emphasizing the responsibility of engineers to build systems that serve people, not the other way around.
Ultimately, Lanier sees a future where technology enhances human life without replacing it. He encourages a balanced approach, one that values innovation while maintaining ethical standards and human dignity.
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