Spatial computing has received a revive in popularity with the release of the Apple Vision Pro. However, this technology isn't anything new. I remember the first platform that was my initiation into VR. It's a program called IMMERSED. Concept was simple, I could remote my Meta Quest 2 into my Macbook and use as many screens. I very much enjoy using it, however sustained time in a meta quest 2 does give me cyber sickness, so not practical as a full time productivity tool.
As generations move through the workforce, we've seen a transition from huge L and U shaped desks housing binders, notes, printers, office supplies, and more down to smaller rectangles big enough for a computer and some monitors. Spatial computing adds an interesting transition potential here to get away from desks all together.
This is an interesting thought to me. At what point do we still need a word desk? If our computers are that mobile, don't require a surface, and additional monitors aren't needed, I don't see desks being essential long term.
Let's just assume that we're talking about a tech company that requires employees to be in office. I imagine that instead of open floor plan desks with a few offices and meeting rooms, we'll see more of lounge type environment with nice library type sitting chairs and side tables. When you get to the office, you just simply put on your headset, pick any seat, and get going on your projects. There would still be meeting rooms for calls, but besides that, it'll look like a giant lounge.
Let's be honest, most people have some idea of what they would use their home office before if it wasn't an office. Maybe a library, craft room, etc. I think the idea of having to sacrifice a room of your house as an office may be changed. I've even had the idea of using a small closet with VR for my home office and reclaiming the current office into a vinyl record library and listening room.
The next thing to consider is if there's even a reason for in person offices? Most of the benefits of being in person can be closely replicated virtually at significantly lower costs. This may be too much to dive into here. When i write a future article on this, i'll come back and tag it.
Lets not pretend this industry hasn't been taken over by tech hardware. You don't buy note pads, you use note apps. You don't buy pens, you buy an apple pencil. This list goes on and on. I do worry for the people who feed their families with this industry. I believe spatial computing may be the nail on the coffin of offices.
I do worry about this market as well, however I believe most display companies are moving towards creating VR displays, so effects should be minimized.
I'm excited to see the effects of spatial computing on our living/office space. Of course the technology will bring a whole new lineup of cool nerdy things I'm excited for too, but just the idea that we're seeing the masses adaptations of a technology that would change how we set up our homes and offices.
