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The really short answer is YESVirtual reality is Projected to reach 37.7 billion USD revenue by 2020(SuperDataResearch), almost a 3 fold increase to now, Virtual Reality is one of the fastest developing industries of our generation. Although we commonly associate Virtual Reality with games, VR encompasses many other domains as wellAlso, the virtual reality technology has been used in different industries, like for example.Healthcare1. Surgery Planning–Google Cardboard saves a babyVirtual reality can be used to explore three-dimensional scans of patients’ organs in a way that could not be possible with traditional methods. For example, baby Teegan Lexcen was born with only one lung and half her heart. Dr. Redmond Burke, the chief of cardiovascular surgery at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, used a low-cost Google Cardboard headset to plan a surgery on the baby. The headset helped him see the 3D images of the baby’s heart to figure out how to save her life. Just four weeks after surgery, Teegan was taken off the ventilator. She is expected to make a full recovery.2. The world’s first surgery streamed in virtual realityIn general, medical students watch actual surgeries in order to learn how to do the procedures, and the experienced doctors benefit from learning new techniques and getting a refresher on old ones. While the viewers can actually feel as though they are right there in the operating room if the surgeries are filmed using virtual reality or 360-degree cameras.“I believe that virtual reality and augmented reality can revolutionize surgical education and training, particularly for developing countries that don’t have the resources and facilities of NHS hospitals” Dr. Shafi Ahmed said, who did the world’s first surgery streamed in virtual reality, in which he removed cancerous tissue from the bowel of the patient, which took just over three hours.3. Virtual reality helps treatment of phobiasFor some time now doctors and therapists the world over have advocated exposure therapy – forcing patients to physically confront that which they fear the most – in order to ease or completely cure phobias. They are using virtual reality in combination with cognitive-behavioral therapy as a tool to help people overcome phobias, with virtual reality–3-D computer graphics that simulate environments in the real world–to help clients confront their fears in a controlled and safe environment. Dozens of studies over the past decade have shown that virtual reality can help people overcome the fear of spiders, heights, storms, flying and even public speaking. And recently, researchers have been investigating ways to make virtual reality even more “real” and the therapy even more effective.4. VR practices in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/PTSD treatmentDr. Albert Rizzo of the University of Southern California has been working within clinical virtual reality for the past 20 years and has even won awards for his work in developing treatments for PTSD. Similar to exposure therapy for curing phobias, VR is being used to ease Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, primarily suffered by military veterans upon returning from war zones like Afghanistan and Iraq.5. VR for Pain ReliefNumerous studies have shown that virtual reality experiences don’t just distract patients from their pain, they can actually reduce the pain signals that reach the brain. Now, with the availability of low-cost, mobile-based virtual reality headsets such as Samsung’s Gear VR and Google Cardboard, the technology is leaving the research labs and getting real-world applications. The Cedars-Sinai Medical Center rolled out the Pain RelieVR products by AppliedVR, which are virtual reality applications that help reduce the pain and stress of medical procedures. The hospital plans to use the apps in its Spine Center, its Department of Surgery and its Orthopaedic Center.EducationVirtual field tripsThere are many ways in which virtual reality can make learning a lot more interesting, and one of those is virtual field trips. In a very short amount of time, these have managed to become of the best applications of VR learning, as they can travel the students to any place in the world without them having to move from their seats.Imagine being in a geography or even a history class, and learning about a certain place and its importance, while being able to actually see everything that you are being taught. This is truly one of the best ways to teach students of any age about the wonders of the world, where they can explore everything they wish on the planet, and actually, make learning a lot more fun and interesting.Improving various skillsA great way in which virtual reality techniques are contributing to enhancing and improving the current education system is by offering students the chance to apply the skills they are being taught from their classroom in a more possible, everyday scenario. Law students are already benefiting from VR representations of real trials and other fields of studies are starting to follow their lead.Various companies and even some great writing services like Flash Essay like to focus in their own blogs about how important VR can be when it comes to helping a student work on their own skills, whether they have to do with writing or even being presented with real-life situations of what they’re studying.Distance learningOne of the best things about virtual reality is that it can truly help everyone attend a class, no matter where they’re at. There are many people who might not have the privilege to actually attend a classroom, like many postgraduate students who follow their master’s online.One of the best examples is Stanford School of Business, which is already offering a certificate program which can be fully delivered through VR. Being able to watch a lecture online while not being able to attend, is already helping break a lot of barriers in education and is a very promising field with many more universities and schools joining in in the future.Game-based learning techniquesIt is commonly known that the best way to teach something to a child is through a game. Virtual reality can give teachers the opportunity to approach learning games from a different perspective. There are many ways in which games can be improved through VR.First and foremost, VR Games are a lot more interactive than regular games used in the classrooms. The children can interact a lot better and share their experiences without being judged on their abilities.Not only that, but interactive and kinesthetic games are known to help players memorize the things they come across in the virtual games. This can truly help students better memorize things and increase their ability to learn.Better cooperation between students and teachersWhen you think of incorporating virtual reality in a classroom, you might probably believe that it completely takes away the opportunity for the teacher to focus solely on each and every student. In reality, though, VR actually helps in one-on-one learning and this is actually necessary for some students.Using technology, such as VR, the teacher actually has the chance to communicate solely with one student and help provide them with the needed materials to improve and better themselves. The student won’t have to feel ashamed to ask something in front of the entire classroom as this whole experience is a lot more personal and it can improve the cooperation and the relationship between a student and a teacher.Virtual reality can change the way we approach educationWhile virtual reality still has a long way to go until it can fully be incorporated into the classrooms, it has already started to show some positive changes. The educational system can truly become a lot easier for the students and they can finally have a chance to work on their own personal skills without feeling left out.Virtual reality can help build a stronger relationship between teachers and students and it can help make students a lot more interested in what they’re learning. VR games and practical examples of what they’re studying can help students memorize what they’re learning a lot faster and better understand how to use it in their everyday lives.Real EstateVirtual ToursTraditional methods include the essential component of property photos on an online platform. Virtual reality and augmented reality makes it possible to view properties in three dimensions. These virtual tours providing a 3D walkthrough, improving the stickiness of an ad and allows people to see a space as they would if they were physically at a property. This type of virtual reality technology, such as seen with Matterport, may make it easier for prospects to more fully experience property prior to going to an open house.Virtual StagingOne virtual staging technology company, rooomy, gives individuals the ability to visualize and decorate a virtual space. How does the technology work? The company allows people to upload a picture of a space and decorate or virtually stage it using a catalog of 100,000 common household items and pieces of furniture.This fun tool can let those looking at a potential property play with styles, furniture groupings and flow prior to settling on a single property, much like traditional staging when selling a home. Google Tango takes the guesswork out of envisioning a room and lets the user experience and look around a room as if all changes have been made. These technologies will impact the experience of investors, buyers, and agents.VR HotspotsVR Hotspots are a very interesting way to augment virtual reality. Hotspots allow for more interactivity and improve the VR Experience. Overlays via hotspots can offer additional details on a tour or give a close up of an area of interest. Properties with special features, close to nearby attractions or have historical or architectural significance may greatly benefit from Hotspot technology.Agents and property owners that add Hotspots to VR look to take the 360 experience to the next level and get users to engage with that virtual world. Interactive hotspots are one way to create a “sticky” user experience for potential buyers. Hotspots are easy to add with technology from InstaVR, and soon, VeeR VR. Include more details on a property or gamify the VR experience. Get users talking about their VR experiences with Hotspot overlays.Virtual FutureKnow what a property looks like before a project is completed with virtual reality. The Virtual Experience is another take that allows users to have a walkthrough experience of a property under construction. This makes it easier to sell office space or condos earlier to prospective buyers. Real-Time Options can let potential buyers personalize the space, as well as gain additional information about the property.Virtual reality is shifting how residential and commercial buyers are experiencing properties. With additional features, clients can get a feel for a property as if they have arrived at an open house. In addition, agents can get a technology that helps them close deals on construction projects that may not have broken ground.The Future of Virtual Reality in Real EstateThere is more to come when it comes to virtual reality and how it may be used in the real estate industry. Virtual reality may be considered a disruptive technology in how it changes the experience for investors, buyers, and sellers through various stages of construction and in selling a property. There may come a time in the future when the practice of open houses becomes unnecessary and individuals can get all the details they need on a property from the comfort of their home. From virtual tours to interactive virtual hotspots and more, the creative potential of this technology serves to improve the experience of clients when it comes time to buy or sell residential or commercial properties.McDonald’sHappy Goggles, ski in Sweden with your lunch box The big M launched their VR marketing in Sweden by transforming the Happy Meal boxes into VR headsets “Happy Goggles”, with which people can enjoy a game called “Slope Stars”, themed on a traditional skiing holiday in Sweden. Revolutionizing the iconic Happy Meal and adapting to local culture? McDonald’s really can’t be topped. Why it’s worth mentioning: Repurposing the Happy Meal containers to VR goggles is simply genius. It’s very cost-efficient, and with McDonald’s global customer base it ensures wide distribution. It’s also culturally adaptive!2.Coca-Colasleigh ride over Poland as Santa with your Oculus Rift For the 2015 Christmas, Coca-Cola introduced a magical experience to people in Poland, where they put on their Oculus Rift and enjoyed a day-long virtual sleigh travel as Santa Claus. Why it’s worth mentioning.Ho ho ho, VR would be a perfect gift for all the good kids, ho, ho, ho!3.SamsungBedtime VR Stories props to Samsung for rising above all the bad rep about the Galaxy S7 phones, and connect parents and children with their Bedtime Stories VR app. Through their technology, parents are able to tell stories to their kids and virtually engage in physical contact, despite their geographical distance. Sweet of you, Samsung. Why it’s worth mentioning: Let’s be honest, it’s considerate, it may have helped thousands of children stop crying for their absent parents at night. It also serves as a great PR save.4.20th Century FoxThe Martian VR Experience The insanely long (25 minutes) movie spin-off and trailer-minigame hybrid was a bold move on the part of 20th Century Fox, as most game trailers are limited to short 360 clips. The experience (we really don’t have a better term for it) was created by VRC studio with Ridley Scott and Steven Spielberg as the executive producer and consultant. With this creation, you will get to be a potato farmer with Matt Damon on Mars, trippy! Why it’s worth mentioning: Come on it’s Matt Damon. If that’s not enough to convince you, aren’t you curious about life on Mars?5.The Guardian & The Mill: claustrophobic awarenessThe Guardian went off the charts on their humanity level and attempted to raise public awareness about claustrophobia, by collaborating with “The Mill” in shooting a 360 solitary confinement experience video. It can be creepier than ASMR for those who have been traumatized by being locked away on their own. Why it’s worth a shoutout: We need more educational VR videos like this to remind us how damaging abuses can be to people’s personalities, and how necessary it is to reach out to those who were once hurt and make them feel less alone.6.The New York TimesVR Documentaries Following the establishment of NYTVR and the massive giveaway of a million Cardboard, NYT released its very first VR doc “The Displaced”, focusing on the bereaved children in warring areas around the world. The pain and loss in those children’s eyes will definitely transport you to another space and inspire you into a marathon of reflection on human civilization. The production won the AICP Next Award for VR during its 2016 session. Why it’s worth mentioning: It’s a unique perspective into war-torn areas and offers an intimate close-up shot of the most vulnerable truth of humanity.7.DiorDior Eyes Dior Eyes is a new answer to all the questions fashion enthusiasts might raise. Through the branded goggles, customers are offered access to the latest fashion shows, the routine of the fashion world, they can even be a fly on the wall as top-level models, stylists and makeup artists interact real-time! Why it’s worth mentioning: Simply put, it’s a fashion symbol that Dior is also conveniently using to enlighten us on the future for fashion consumption.8.BABYGHOSTThe BABYGHOST Spring-Summer Collection was held in October 2016, which was preceded with much VR promo in telling its success story and design inspirations. Centered around its theme “indigo children”, BABYGHOST modded it up with indigo lighting, creating an alternate universe with VeChain VR, where each attendee became an individual space explorer. Why it’s worth mentioning: Fashion design and VR? People have so much class these days and shut up just take my money!9.VolvoXC90 Test Drive You find a nice ride and you want to take it out for a spin. In the neighborhood of your car dealership though? Lame-o! Volvo introduced a test drive app to send you off on a journey through bucolic countries, mountainous areas, lakesides, you name it. Why it’s worth mentioning: the VR test drive is gaining momentum in the automotive industry, as Audi cooperated with Oculus Rift in helping customers choose the vehicle of their choice. BMW is also working with Samsung Gear to simulate driving experience on the IFA Berlin show.10. HBOVR Game of Thrones It might be winter for the Starks but it's certainly sprung for the VR experience of the global phenomenon of a show. Before the return of the 5th season, HBO booked the O2 Arena in London for a hands-on trial for the show fans. After donning the goggles, you can join the Night’s Watch in patrolling the Wall. HBO even threw wind machines into the bundle to make it as authentic as possible. Why it’s worth mentioning: Just the title of the show can wet some pants. Jk. But seriously we can’t think of better strategies to keep a loyal fan base.If you are a 360 VR creator, feel free to follow and request me any 360 or/and VR relevant questions! :)

Virtual reality is changing many industries around the world and has a lot of benefits that the average “Joe” don’t know about, and healthcare is one of the biggest adopters of VR encompassing surgery planning, phobia treatment, pain relief, robotic surgery, skills training, etc.VR allows healthcare professionals to learn new skills as well as refreshing existing ones in a safe environment. What ’s more, it allows a treatment planning without causing any danger to the patients. Virtual Reality is proven to be greatly helpful for the development of new life-saving techniques and the surgery training of doctors.1. Surgery Planning–Google Cardboard saves a babyVirtual reality can be used to explore three-dimensional scans of patients’ organs in a way that could not be possible with traditional methods. For example, baby Teegan Lexcen was born with only one lung and half her heart. Dr. Redmond Burke, the chief of cardiovascular surgery at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, used a low-cost Google Cardboard headset to plan a surgery on the baby. The headset helped him see the 3D images of the baby’s heart to figure out how to save her life. Just four weeks after surgery, Teegan was taken off the ventilator. She is expected to make a full recovery.2.The world’s first surgery streamed in virtual realityIn general, medical students watch actual surgeries in order to learn how to do the procedures, and the experienced doctors benefit from learning new techniques and getting a refresher on old ones. While the viewers can actually feel as though they are right there in the operating room if the surgeries are filmed using virtual reality or 360-degree cameras.“I believe that virtual reality and augmented reality can revolutionize surgical education and training, particularly for developing countries that don’t have the resources and facilities of NHS hospitals” Dr. Shafi Ahmed said, who did the world’s first surgery streamed in virtual reality, in which he removed cancerous tissue from the bowel of the patient, which took just over three hours.3.Virtual reality helps treatment of phobiasFor some time now doctors and therapists the world over have advocated exposure therapy – forcing patients to physically confront that which they fear the most – in order to ease or completely cure phobias. They are using virtual reality in combination with cognitive-behavioral therapy as a tool to help people overcome phobias, with virtual reality–3-D computer graphics that simulate environments in the real world–to help clients confront their fears in a controlled and safe environment. Dozens of studies over the past decade have shown that virtual reality can help people overcome fear of spiders, heights, storms, flying and even public speaking. And recently, researchers have been investigating ways to make virtual reality even more “real” and the therapy even more effective.4. VR practices in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder/PTSD treatmentDr. Albert Rizzo of the University of Southern California has been working within clinical virtual reality for the past 20 years, and has even won awards for his work in developing treatments for PTSD. Similar to exposure therapy for curing phobias, VR is being used to ease Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, primarily suffered by military veterans upon returning from war zones like Afghanistan and Iraq.an5. VR for Pain ReliefNumerous studies have shown that virtual reality experiences don’t just distract patients from their pain, they can actually reduce the pain signals that reach the brain. Now, with the availability of low-cost, mobile-based virtual reality headsets such as Samsung’s Gear VR and Google Cardboard, the technology is leaving the research labs and getting real-world applications. The Cedars-Sinai Medical Center rolled out the Pain RelieVR products by AppliedVR, which are virtual reality applications that help reduce the pain and stress of medical procedures. The hospital plans to use the apps in its Spine Center, its Department of Surgery and its Orthopaedic Center.EducationVirtual field tripsThere are many ways in which virtual reality can make learning a lot more interesting, and one of those is virtual field trips. In a very short amount of time, these have managed to become of the best applications of VR learning, as they can travel the students to any place in the world without them having to move from their seats.Imagine being in a geography or even a history class, and learning about a certain place and its importance, while being able to actually see everything that you are being taught. This is truly one of the best ways to teach students of any age about the wonders of the world, where they can explore everything they wish on the planet, and actually, make learning a lot more fun and interesting.Improving various skillsA great way in which virtual reality techniques are contributing to enhancing and improving the current education system is by offering students the chance to apply the skills they are being taught from their classroom in a more possible, everyday scenario. Law students are already benefiting from VR representations of real trials and other fields of studies are starting to follow their lead.Various companies and even some great writing services like Flash Essay like to focus in their own blogs about how important VR can be when it comes to helping a student work on their own skills, whether they have to do with writing or even being presented with real-life situations of what they’re studying.Distance learningOne of the best things about virtual reality is that it can truly help everyone attend a class, no matter where they’re at. There are many people who might not have the privilege to actually attend a classroom, like many postgraduate students who follow their master’s online.One of the best examples is Stanford School of Business, which is already offering a certificate program which can be fully delivered through VR. Being able to watch a lecture online while not being able to attend, is already helping break a lot of barriers in education and is a very promising field with many more universities and schools joining in in the future.Game-based learning techniquesIt is commonly known that the best way to teach something to a child is through a game. Virtual reality can give teachers the opportunity to approach learning games from a different perspective. There are many ways in which games can be improved through VR.First and foremost, VR Games are a lot more interactive than regular games used in the classrooms. The children can interact a lot better and share their experiences without being judged on their abilities.Not only that, but interactive and kinesthetic games are known to help players memorize the things they come across in the virtual games. This can truly help students better memorize things and increase their ability to learn.Better cooperation between students and teachersWhen you think of incorporating virtual reality in a classroom, you might probably believe that it completely takes away the opportunity for the teacher to focus solely on each and every student. In reality, though, VR actually helps in one-on-one learning and this is actually necessary for some students.Using technology, such as VR, the teacher actually has the chance to communicate solely with one student and help provide them with the needed materials to improve and better themselves. The student won’t have to feel ashamed to ask something in front of the entire classroom as this whole experience is a lot more personal and it can improve the cooperation and the relationship between a student and a teacher.Virtual reality can change the way we approach educationWhile virtual reality still has a long way to go until it can fully be incorporated into the classrooms, it has already started to show some positive changes. The educational system can truly become a lot easier for the students and they can finally have a chance to work on their own personal skills without feeling left out.Virtual reality can help build a stronger relationship between teachers and students and it can help make students a lot more interested in what they’re learning. VR games and practical examples of what they’re studying can help students memorize what they’re learning a lot faster and better understand how to use it in their everyday lives.Real EstateVirtual ToursTraditional methods include the essential component of property photos on an online platform. Virtual reality and augmented reality makes it possible to view properties in three dimensions. These virtual tours providing a 3D walkthrough, improving the stickiness of an ad and allows people to see a space as they would if they were physically at a property. This type of virtual reality technology, such as seen with Matterport, may make it easier for prospects to more fully experience property prior to going to an open house.Virtual StagingOne virtual staging technology company, rooomy, gives individuals the ability to visualize and decorate a virtual space. How does the technology work? The company allows people to upload a picture of a space and decorate or virtually stage it using a catalog of 100,000 common household items and pieces of furniture.This fun tool can let those looking at a potential property play with styles, furniture groupings and flow prior to settling on a single property, much like traditional staging when selling a home. Google Tango takes the guesswork out of envisioning a room and lets the user experience and look around a room as if all changes have been made. These technologies will impact the experience of investors, buyers, and agents.VR HotspotsVR Hotspots are a very interesting way to augment virtual reality. Hotspots allow for more interactivity and improve the VR Experience. Overlays via hotspots can offer additional details on a tour or give a close up of an area of interest. Properties with special features, close to nearby attractions or have historical or architectural significance may greatly benefit from Hotspot technology.Agents and property owners that add Hotspots to VR look to take the 360 experience to the next level and get users to engage with that virtual world. Interactive hotspots are one way to create a “sticky” user experience for potential buyers. Hotspots are easy to add with technology from InstaVR, and soon, VeeR VR. Include more details on a property or gamify the VR experience. Get users talking about their VR experiences with Hotspot overlays.Virtual FutureKnow what a property looks like before a project is completed with virtual reality. The Virtual Experience is another take that allows users to have a walkthrough experience of a property under construction. This makes it easier to sell office space or condos earlier to prospective buyers. Real-Time Options can let potential buyers personalize the space, as well as gain additional information about the property.Virtual reality is shifting how residential and commercial buyers are experiencing properties. With additional features, clients can get a feel for a property as if they have arrived at an open house. In addition, agents can get a technology that helps them close deals on construction projects that may not have broken ground.The Future of Virtual Reality in Real EstateThere is more to come when it comes to virtual reality and how it may be used in the real estate industry. Virtual reality may be considered a disruptive technology in how it changes the experience for investors, buyers, and sellers through various stages of construction and in selling a property. There may come a time in the future when the practice of open houses becomes unnecessary and individuals can get all the details they need on a property from the comfort of their home. From virtual tours to interactive virtual hotspots and more, the creative potential of this technology serves to improve the experience of clients when it comes time to buy or sell residential or commercial properties.McDonald’sHappy Goggles, ski in Sweden with your lunch box The big M launched their VR marketing in Sweden by transforming the Happy Meal boxes into VR headsets “Happy Goggles”, with which people can enjoy a game called “Slope Stars”, themed on a traditional skiing holiday in Sweden. Revolutionizing the iconic Happy Meal and adapting to local culture? McDonald’s really can’t be topped. Why it’s worth mentioning: Repurposing the Happy Meal containers to VR goggles is simply genius. It’s very cost-efficient, and with McDonald’s global customer base it ensures wide distribution. It’s also culturally adaptive!2.Coca-Colasleigh ride over Poland as Santa with your Oculus Rift For the 2015 Christmas, Coca-Cola introduced a magical experience to people in Poland, where they put on their Oculus Rift and enjoyed a day-long virtual sleigh travel as Santa Claus. Why it’s worth mentioning.Ho ho ho, VR would be a perfect gift for all the good kids, ho, ho, ho!3.SamsungBedtime VR Stories props to Samsung for rising above all the bad rep about the Galaxy S7 phones, and connect parents and children with their Bedtime Stories VR app. Through their technology, parents are able to tell stories to their kids and virtually engage in physical contact, despite their geographical distance. Sweet of you, Samsung. Why it’s worth mentioning: Let’s be honest, it’s considerate, it may have helped thousands of children stop crying for their absent parents at night. It also serves as a great PR save.4.20th Century FoxThe Martian VR Experience The insanely long (25 minutes) movie spin-off and trailer-minigame hybrid was a bold move on the part of 20th Century Fox, as most game trailers are limited to short 360 clips. The experience (we really don’t have a better term for it) was created by VRC studio with Ridley Scott and Steven Spielberg as the executive producer and consultant. With this creation, you will get to be a potato farmer with Matt Damon on Mars, trippy! Why it’s worth mentioning: Come on it’s Matt Damon. If that’s not enough to convince you, aren’t you curious about life on Mars?5.The Guardian & The Mill: claustrophobic awarenessThe Guardian went off the charts on their humanity level and attempted to raise public awareness about claustrophobia, by collaborating with “The Mill” in shooting a 360 solitary confinement experience video. It can be creepier than ASMR for those who have been traumatized by being locked away on their own. Why it’s worth a shoutout: We need more educational VR videos like this to remind us how damaging abuses can be to people’s personalities, and how necessary it is to reach out to those who were once hurt and make them feel less alone.6.The New York TimesVR Documentaries Following the establishment of NYTVR and the massive giveaway of a million Cardboard, NYT released its very first VR doc “The Displaced”, focusing on the bereaved children in warring areas around the world. The pain and loss in those children’s eyes will definitely transport you to another space and inspire you into a marathon of reflection on human civilization. The production won the AICP Next Award for VR during its 2016 session. Why it’s worth mentioning: It’s a unique perspective into war-torn areas and offers an intimate close-up shot of the most vulnerable truth of humanity.7.DiorDior Eyes Dior Eyes is a new answer to all the questions fashion enthusiasts might raise. Through the branded goggles, customers are offered access to the latest fashion shows, the routine of the fashion world, they can even be a fly on the wall as top-level models, stylists and makeup artists interact real-time! Why it’s worth mentioning: Simply put, it’s a fashion symbol that Dior is also conveniently using to enlighten us on the future for fashion consumption.8.BABYGHOSTThe BABYGHOST Spring-Summer Collection was held in October 2016, which was preceded with much VR promo in telling its success story and design inspirations. Centered around its theme “indigo children”, BABYGHOST modded it up with indigo lighting, creating an alternate universe with VeChain VR, where each attendee became an individual space explorer. Why it’s worth mentioning: Fashion design and VR? People have so much class these days and shut up just take my money!9.VolvoXC90 Test Drive You find a nice ride and you want to take it out for a spin. In the neighborhood of your car dealership though? Lame-o! Volvo introduced a test drive app to send you off on a journey through bucolic countries, mountainous areas, lakesides, you name it. Why it’s worth mentioning: the VR test drive is gaining momentum in the automotive industry, as Audi cooperated with Oculus Rift in helping customers choose the vehicle of their choice. BMW is also working with Samsung Gear to simulate driving experience on the IFA Berlin show.10. HBOVR Game of Thrones It might be winter for the Starks but it's certainly sprung for the VR experience of the global phenomenon of a show. Before the return of the 5th season, HBO booked the O2 Arena in London for a hands-on trial for the show fans. After donning the goggles, you can join the Night’s Watch in patrolling the Wall. HBO even threw wind machines into the bundle to make it as authentic as possible. Why it’s worth mentioning: Just the title of the show can wet some pants. Jk. But seriously we can’t think of better strategies to keep a loyal fan base.Meditation VR AppsRelax VR: Meditation from the hustle and bustle of everyday lifeNow in virtual reality, some apps on your phone can bring you to immerse in a cloistered world of your own, you can step away from the stresses of reality to a gentle, calming environment. Relax VR provides beautiful locations, soothing sounds, relaxing experience, to immerse yourself in high resolution 360 videos from around the world, with spacial audio – hearing the waves gently lapping on the seashore and watch the ripples created by a soft breeze. VR Relax–Meditation & Sleep – It includes a cartoonish space environment, a Middle Eastern setting, and morning, night, ocean, and rain landscapes.Relax VR is now on Oculus, Gear VR & Daydream.Guided Meditation VR: relax in exotic locationsIt is a virtual reality relaxation app where you can recharge in exotic locations across the universe. It includes a forest path, a Japanese garden, a mountain peak, and a beach, with both photo-realistic and computer-generated environments. Experience virtual reality meditation anywhere your heart desires. Relax in VR with your HTC Vive or Gear VR.Perfect beach VR: enjoy the beach view without jet lag.Perfect Beach is a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’ve just come back from a stressful day at the office, or you’re on a busy flight but would prefer the surroundings of your own tropical island getaway, the VR app allows you take a break from the real world and soak up the virtual sun on your own private beach. Perfect Beach VR is free to download for Android, iOS and Google Cardboard.Shopping VR AppsVirtual Reality Shopping: Now Shopaholics Can Indulge Right From the Comforts of HomeLiving in the fast-paced society, shopping online is on the rise. People search for goods in the online stores and put an order without actually picking up items. But as the technology booms, even online shopping provides a “real experience”. VR shopping is trying to not only provide customers the convenience of online shopping, but also the virtual reality experience of being in a store.In July 2018, Amazon VR kiosks announced in 10 shopping malls to promote its Prime Day shopping event. Amazon showed its ambition of leading the retailing industry by transforming the future of shopping. You can walk through the virtual room that reflects Amazon store sections, and each room has its distinctive design. You can handle any product with Oculus Touch controllers, even to try on the clothes.This is not the first application of VR in shopping. In 2017, Mastercard and Swarovski launched a virtual reality shopping app for the Atelier Swarovski home décor line available for Android and iOS. And early in 2016, an e-commerce giant Alibaba had launched Buy+ VR shopping on Taobao app. With the help of a Google cardboard, this shopping application can bring you to the shopping malls from all over the world and you can buy anything you like online.Although VR shopping faces challenges of creating realistic shopping experiences, it tackles the hassle shopping experiences, such as going to different malls to find the best fits. All you need is your Android or IOS device with a Google CardboardEntertainment VR AppsVeeR VR Immersive: exclusive access to thousands of premium VR experiences on major VR platformsCan you image transit from Asia to America just in seconds? Can you image wander the streets of Tokyo and visit Burning Man Festival in Nevada without booking flights? Can you image skiing on Alps and diving into Sipadan with one app? You can achieve these unbelievable goals on VeeR VR Immersive. VeeR puts you in front of a global community of top VR creators from over 180 countries and regions. No matter you like documentary or horror films, star wars or animations, you will find the VR contents that interest you the most on VeeR VR Immersive.You can watch free premium VR contents through VeeR on major VR headsets, including Oculus, HTC VIVE, Google Daydream, Samsung Gear VR, Windows MR and more. If you don’t have a headset, VeeR VR is also free to download for Android and iOSand you can enjoy 360 photos and videos with Google Cardboard.Do you like VR videos and immerse yourself in a VR World? Check out VeeR VR, feel free to follow and request me any 360 or/and VR relevant questions! :)

I see that @Mira Zaslove already provided a bunch of great answers. As of my experience in the industry (as an aggressive salesperson I was expected to be and now merchandising expert), I'd like to give some more insight:- Samples & testing: brands offer free samples or testing for you to be convinced the product is working. It is widely used in cosmetics, sometimes with tricky effects to make you think it works instantly... sorry to tell you, no miracles exist! But beauty and happiness do sell.Example: MAC (make up) offers a 10 minute focus session to make you feel beautiful and buy more.- Loyalty cards: by offering you the 10th massage for free, you psychologically think you're earning something more for free. For the brands, it is a great way to sell more and classify their customers by assessing their loyalty. For the customers, it is sometimes a great benefit, but it can also turns into a lot of junk mail, poor added value items or too many restrictions.Example: American Express (although they have been regularly voted top loyalty program)- CRM: by collecting your data when you first buy from the brand, they get to know your preferences better and can send you targeted special offers for you to spend more. They can also learn your buying habits (when, where, how much, etc.). It is called Customer Relationship Management.Example: Hugo Boss goes farther by asking clients personal interests and invite them to private events for new collections launch.- Smart close: "I sold one to a doctor yesterday". Implying that intelligent people make this purchase gives credibility to the offer. It is specifically good when selling technology.- Think About it: "Ok I'll let you think about it, but don't tell me you're coming back tomorrow. If you really like the product, you must buy it now, because tomorrow I will need to sell it to you at the normal price". Basically you'll just leave the customer for 1 minute and come back teasing him. It works a lot...- The Calculator discount: by typing on the calculator, people automatically think you're making them a special treatment.- Windows: this is the first interaction clients have with a store. Owners make the most of this by displaying new, economic or high rotation products, or sales season. The objective is to get people's attention from the outside. Sometimes you don't even plan to get in, but still will...Example: M&M's shop- Frequent product turnover: brands adopt this strategy to stay competitive and always provoke the customer's interest. It enhances sales and pushes people to rush into the new items.Example: Zara is the best example I can give for that. They change their collection every 3 weeks so that customers can always feel like something new is coming. Plus, once you spot an item you like, you feel like you have to acquire it right now before it goes out of stock.- Packaging: Playing with packaging is a modern trick brands use to make you think you’re saving money on purchases. For example, they will expose a smaller packaging with the same price or a 10% off product but with reduced packaging.- Buy 2, get 1 free: this one is well known. By getting 2 products for the price of one, you feel proud. But in the end, they sold you more and probably made that much money.Another one similar can be, "buy this one and I'll give this you for free" (like a concession in exchange for the close).- Cost over time: "yes the price can seem high, but if you divide it into 365 days...". Reducing cost to daily amount can be very effective. It also helps to compare benefits and features over price.Example: Mercedes over BMW cars- Bad Feeling: "I think it's too expensive for you". By classifying your customer/prospect into a lower range, he can feel hurt in his own esteem and want to buy the most expansive product. I used that a lot selling pricey cosmetics and it works almost all the time. Because people think you're just being honest with them and they want to prove you they can afford it (pure ego trick). We would also use something like "Ok then, stay with your cr***y product" or "stay with your pain". Trust me it hurts people's feelings.- Compliment: By complimenting customers, especially for fashion stores, make people buy more. Exaggerating is often part of the selling speech. A lot of people also try to connect with the customer's feelings and personal stories for that...- Commitment: Get people to commit with you and make them owe you something. They usually do this by asking several questions: How are you today? Have you tried our products/services before? Where are you from? Oh you play rugby, my son is a big fan of...- Atmosphere: music, smells, images, touch, screens, lights, colors, path, etc. All those features are widely used by most modern stores to improve customer experience. Of course we like colors and beautiful images around us. Studies also show that music influences the rhythm of our purchases; the faster the music, the quicker we buy. That's why restaurants often play slow music to encourage us to eat more.Example: IKEA revolutionized the customer experience by setting up a path to follow within the store. It is a very clever way to let people go around and buy extra products...- Time limited offers: that one is easy. It just consists of keeping some prices down during a small amount of time. That way, people feel the urge to get the product before the offer ends. Often, brands will repeat this in time, and thus you would have just been tricked, but it works quite well.Example: Tommy Hilfiger, Black Friday special offer (2-day duration)- Models & professional assistance: I've been part of it myself as a model. Basically you're here to catch people's attention and flirt with them while they try or look for products. Let's be honest, people like what's good to look at and new experiences. Even if they only come for a picture with the model, then you get their attention inside the store. Also, some companies (mostly within supermarkets) hire brand professionals to "help" you discover their products. It can be by providing information, testing or showing some features of it. It clearly boosts sales...Example: Abercrombie & Fitch- Cross-selling : retailers classify their products by brands and categories in order to push complementary sales. For example, if you come to buy a shampoo, you'll find right next to it soap, deodorant, creams, etc. Likewise, if you buy alcohol, you'll find snacks and beverages nearby.Example: Drugstore (FootLocker also does that directly with its salespersons by always recommending additional products to clients)- Shelf space display: this one is a display, usually an informative image, placed in the aisle directly between the shelves to catch your eye on a specific product. It often comes with detailed benefits/information and a special price as well.- Counter display: those are displays near the cashier or directly on the counter. It aims to make people spend more while they're waiting to check out with their items and provoke additional sales with a small cost.Example: candies, magazines, socks, toys, etc.- Hot zone & cold zone: according to studies & research, we tend to have some kind of natural behavior walking towards certain directions.The hot zone is where we go spontaneously; that is where are displayed the special offers for impulse and higher sales (pyramid, zig zag...; making us step in the "right" direction).The cold zone is less visited and more remote; it is where we go on purpose because we know the products we're looking for are here.Plus, you'll notice that most supermarkets' entrances are located on the right, not on the left. Studies reportedly showed we tend to walk towards the right. By entering the right (or center sometimes), they make sure we go all over the place before leaving so that they can trick us with some special discounts and offers. It is also why you don't see many external windows within those (they try to lose us and make us forget what's going on outside). But of course, every shop has its own analysis and influence of the customer flow and arrangement for better results...Example: most malls, supermarkets and shops around the world.- Special display: It usually consist of one product only (new or high rotation one), displayed at the tip of the aisle, with a visible price and limited in time. It also comes with a header/banner, bright colors and some floor guidance. It helps selling a lot more as people see a bargain limited in time and quantity.Example: Cereals at Walmart- Advertising: By communicating, brands grab your attention to get you to come and visit them more often. It can be through promoting the brand, a new product or an exclusive offer. Each brand embraces its own tone, message & strategy.- Communication: The way retailers display their messages through the store is no coincidence. They wisely choose where they want you to go with big posters visible from far. It sometimes gives you information you weren’t planning on seeing…and so buying.- Facing: « Not seen, not taken ». Retailers make the most of your fast pace (about 1 meter per second) by displaying at least 2 facings of one product. It enhances the visibility of the offer and thus the probability of purchase. For that reason, many brands try to group most of their products together. It gives a strong image.- Anatomy: This technique consists of assembling items together to show people how good it fits. It aims to inspire people & push them to buy more goods. It is largely used within the fashion industry with top & bottom clothes displayed as a whole.- Humor (and smile): "So Sir, you like it or you love it?" works all the time...To conclude,one of the smartest recent move a brand has made is the campaign run by Coca-Cola. Give your friend a bottle with his name, give happiness to those you care about. It is a fantastic technique to get people to spend more, because they think they're also doing something good to their entourage...When I was selling cosmetics within malls (kiosks - yes, I wasn't in a financially good period of my life), we saw many customers coming back the day after saying: "I'd like to return this product. It's not that I don't like it, but it's just that I don't know why I bought it; I'll never use it anyway". That's just an example of how good those psychological tricks are..."The challenge of the retail business is the human condition."- Howard SchultzJérémie Lorrain