The concept may seem straight out of a Black Mirror episode, but soon, the ability to revisit cherished memories through virtual reality (VR) will be within reach. Wist labs is pioneering a smartphone application that empowers users to capture unforgettable moments and transport themselves back to those experiences using VR technology.
Introducing Vivid: The VR Experience
Vivid, currently in its beta phase on iOS, promises to revolutionize how we perceive and interact with our memories. By pairing the app with a Quest VR headset, users can immerse themselves in a three-dimensional world crafted from their recorded experiences. The technology leverages 3D capture capabilities to transform mundane recordings into captivating virtual environments.
Reliving Memories in 3D
Drawing parallels to Black Mirror’s ‘The Entire History of You,’ where individuals access memories via implanted devices, Vivid allows users to access and manipulate their past experiences. With the ability to rewind, zoom, and explore scenes, users can engage with their memories in unprecedented ways.
The process begins with recording an experience using the Vivid app, which captures vital data to recreate the moment in 3D. Through a combination of sensors and specialized software, the app preserves color, depth, audio, and scene information, ensuring a seamless transition from 2D footage to immersive VR environments. Depth data is acquired using LiDAR sensors present in Pro model iPhones and iPads.
Bridging the Gap: From Glitches to Perfection
While still in its early stages, Vivid’s development journey has encountered some glitches, resulting in imperfect video renditions. However, Wist labs is committed to refining the app’s performance to deliver a flawless user experience before its official launch.
Joining the VR Revolution
Currently available in private beta on iOS and Meta Quest 2, Wist plans to introduce a Meta Quest Pro version later this year. Enthusiasts eager to explore the future of VR can sign up for the beta or join the launch waiting list on the Wist: Immersive Memories website. As technology continues to blur the lines between reality and virtuality, Vivid offers a tantalizing glimpse into the limitless possibilities of immersive storytelling.