With the age of spatial computing firmly upon us, Shashank Srivastava believes we all have a crucial choice to make: whether we will do our part to ensure that virtual and augmented reality improve our lives instead of harming them. Spatial computing, which allows a person to experience what a computer is generating in the real world instead of behind its screen, is undeniably powerful. “It can allow us to connect with each other and have amazing experiences on a much deeper level,” Shashank believes. “However, there are very real threats to privacy as well as others that we aren’t even aware of yet. While that’s true, I don’t recommend abandoning the technology but instead moving forward slowly, assessing its risks, implementing solutions, and, above all, remaining in control of it. That is on all of us to do so that VR serves us as it should.”
Shashank concedes that the evolution of spatial computing will be guided by those with specialized knowledge. Even so, it is still an all-hands-on-deck journey, whether a person is a teacher, politician, artist, or someone else who does not need to be a computer science expert to do their job.
“This is because no matter what our occupation or interests may be, we are all responsible for creating the world we want to live in, and VR and AR will impact it more and more each day,” he says.
Below, Shashank lays out four action steps that anyone can take so that they help spatial computing be used for the betterment of society.
1. Understand the basics
First, spend some time getting familiar with key terms, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR). Include in your knowledge journey their potential risks and benefits on various industries.
“We often tell ourselves that we aren’t ‘tech people’ or that we can’t understand spatial computing, but that’s not necessarily true,” says Shashank. “Ask questions until you are satisfied with the answers. Get a solid foundation of spatial computing’s concepts and technologies so that you can feel more confident about its undeniable complexities. And remember – you aren’t the only one who may be unsure about what it all means. There’s nothing wrong with that. You just always have the choice to step out of that box and level up, knowledge-wise.”
2. Explore available tools and platforms
Once you feel comfortable and can speak the spatial computing-language, it is time to dive into the tools and platforms that are available today. The industry has rapidly evolved since the days of Google Glass and Oculus Rift. Check out the AR apps that are available on smartphones, and try on the latest VR headsets. Don’t forget to learn about the intricacies of their capabilities, including AR filters for social media and the ability to explore virtual worlds with friends.
3. Embrace interdisciplinary learning
You may not be directly involved with any of the coding or innovating associated with spatial computing, but you may still see its capabilities intersect your own industry, such as psychology, design, marketing, or healthcare.
“The deeper we go into the VR era, the more we will see its impact in industries not traditionally associated with tech,” Shashank believes. “For that reason, exploring topics outside of your knowledge base will be important. Look into courses or workshops that take you into AR and spatial computing, all so you can be better equipped to contribute meaningfully to its application in our lives.”
4. Consider ethical and social implications
Crucially, be part of the discussion on the ethical and social considerations that must be addressed with the evolution of VR. Shashank believes that this is particularly important because the technology transforms how we all see reality and may have significant concerns for privacy, security, and accessibility.
“We do not have to be afraid of VR, but we should be cautious,” he says. “While you may not be involved in its development, you can still have a voice in how it’s used. Start thoughtful discussions about its consequences for user safety and the well-being of society. The more you actively engage in these conversations, the more you will help create a future in which technology serves the greater good.”
Some final thoughts about spatial computing and the role of society to determine its development
Shashank thinks that society must find the balance between innovation and collective responsibility. “We cannot be passive about the technology we create,” he says. “There will always be the inner circle, so to speak, that develops innovations such as spatial computing, but we all should decide how to use it and to what extent. So long as we remain active determiners of its applications, we will keep it in the box it belongs in, where it serves our needs and makes the world a better place.”
Shashank Srivastava is the Senior Vice President – Product at Forsight in New York City. An accomplished product leader, he has over 15 years of experience in technical and operational roles across various sectors, including AI/ML, cloud computing, computer vision, and digital advertising. His expertise spans strategic planning, product management, deep learning, AI initiatives, and enterprise architecture, among others. To connect with Shashank, please visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/shashankkpsm/.
