Raspberry Pi VR Solution For Video Calls - Can it be an exciting experience?

Working from home isn’t going anywhere, so the video calls. However, some people find it very irritating to interact in a 2D view of video calls. There is disruption; honestly, it doesn't give the feel of working in a proper office environment. 

So, here comes to RaspberryPi and VR; you can have a VR solution for video calls. Easy, reliable, and affordable. Besides, you get your next DIY project to play with. 

Can Raspberry Pi be really programmed for virtual reality?

Yes. Any VR headset with an HDMI input should be able to accept a Raspberry Pi. For the inexpensive mini-computer to run VR programs, that is all you would require.

In spite of this, Raspberry Pi informs me that they are still a ways off from enabling users to work on creating their VR environments, but that's a software tool issue rather than a hardware one. In order for this to occur in an ideal world, a VR headset producer would have to give Raspberry Pi access to their developer tools; they claim to be very interested in hearing from them!

What is VR, and how do the headsets work?

You can fully immerse yourself in a virtual environment using virtual reality (VR). The typical delivery method for this is head-mounted hardware that monitors the user's motion. The screens or two display panels you attach to the VR headsets are the major devices. Typically, lenses are used to enclose the panels and shut out the actual outside world.

All headsets keep track of your hand motions and adjust the image you view accordingly. Some headsets do track more activity than others, though.

Understanding the VR headset

Wearing the headgear is the first step in initiating a VR simulation. On a PC or console, users often launch the program themselves or ask a third party to do it. The user can then switch their perspective to the VR headset to fully immerse themselves in the experience after plugging in the VR headset.

The user can use the motion controls or their body movement to navigate the scene once the headset has been mounted and calibrated to fill their peripheral vision.

Motion controls in the headset will govern how the scene pans across the screen as the user looks around. The scene will keep moving and interacting with the user as long as they keep the headset on, whether they move their head or use the controllers to look about and participate.

How to build a VR solution for video calls using Raspberry Pi?

Before we begin, you must set your expectations straight. So, if you are going to try something else using this process, you will know where to change and how to decide on your direction. 

Expectations to set from the project:
Your head would move left and right, and a picture of you would also move. The other attendees are free to look about and talk to whomever they choose. Lorraine demonstrates how to set up a first-person view Raspberry Pi that links to either a simple browser window or a virtual reality headset. In addition to conference calls, this idea has a lot of promise for first-person view robotics, security cameras, and nature cams.

Steps to Build a VR Solution with Raspberry Pi from Scratch

Many of you might suggest some of the existing platforms that offer VR for video conferring, and no doubt they are great with features and results. Still, the fun of DIY Raspberry Pi projects is something different. It is like an addictive drug for developers or coders. Their curiosity and passion will never allow them to just pass on the chance to have fun with their tools.

Remember that these projects' steps are initially run by the famous author of Save the World with Code. Lorraine Underwood is the pioneer of the idea and still working to improve it. If you think you can improve the idea of improvising the concept, you must know her steps for building this project. 

So, let’s begin. 

Things you need for this project

• Raspberry Pi device (latest )
• A mobile phone or PC for connection
• Set of servo bots
• VR headset
• Oculus
• SteroEffect
• A lot of coding knowledge

Step 1 – Build

Connect a motion servo (of any brand) to a Raspberry Pi device to create moving heads for each participant in the meeting. 

A small camera is linked to each servo-bot so users can see the person they are chatting to. Each servo-bot is controlled by the head motions of individuals wearing VR. 

Step 2 – Set Up the Webserver

This step involved a lot of coding. If you like it, this is going to be extremely fun. 

We will leave this step to the professional coders, or you can check other tutorials. Or get assistance from a programmer interested in working on this project with you. 

Step 3 – Set up the Code for VR

In order for users to verify that the code is configured to broadcast in StereoEffect and that the servo-bots match actual head movements, you must now connect your servo-bots to the web.

Once everything is put together, you must use a Gear VR headset and a phone, preferably an android, to test her solution. 

Using a little trial and error along with the Oculus VR experience. The internet browser on your phone should produce the most anticipated outcomes. Her VR headset will allow you to see the actual world. The servo-bots would replicate her same head motions if you turned it on and placed it on your head.

Step 4 – Setup Remote Access

Setting up a secure means for everyone to join her VR meeting is next on the list. Using her router, you will establish an access point and communicate the information to the invited guests.

Step 5 – Set Up a Meeting

In her home office, you must set up both servo-bots. Invite several of your friends or project partners for a remote meeting, each with their own allocated servo-bot, to test your experiment. You will be able to communicate with both bots and view them separately once everyone has logged in. 

The individuals you invited to the meeting will be able to turn their heads at the same time and gaze at you or each other. Enjoy your productive meeting right now!

FAQs

• Can you video call in VR?

The most recent advancement in virtual reality technology gives us a more realistic experience while meeting and conversing with people in an immersive setting. Real-time engagement technology makes video and voice chat possible in the VR environment.

• How realistic is VR?

The VR headset experience becomes more lifelike over time. However, it is still a long way from reality, and it will take much longer for a VR headset experience to seem completely authentic. Additionally, the response to that query is quite arbitrary.

• Can a Raspberry Pi run VR?

The creators are eager for motivated programmers to create their very own VR. Yes. Any VR headset with an HDMI input should be able to accept a Raspberry Pi. For the inexpensive mini-computer to run VR programs, that is all you would require.

• What do you need for virtual reality?

A VR headset is the only thing you require. The VR headsets that are currently on the market vary. When buying a headset, there are a few things to consider. For instance, you can use VR headsets with a potent gaming PC or smartphone.

Bottom line 

So, time to say goodbye to the annoying and boring video calls. As an enthusiast of new gadgets built at home, we are sure you will be happy to learn about the project. Regarding the Raspberry Pi devices and relevant accessories, we at Vilros have everything you need. 

Name it, and we can arrange the amazing kit for you to create this and many more amazing projects. Just explore the catalog, get every information, and purchase now. 

If you happen to try and improve it, we would be happy to hear about it. Let’s keep the chain of fun projects going with the Raspberry Pi.