2016 may be the year that virtual reality (VR) technology breaks into the mainstream. Hardware manufacturers like Oculus are gearing up, with the first Rift headsets reaching customers at the end of March and many people lining up to experience different 'realities'.

It will all start with the big markets of gaming and entertainment, but what else can VR offer? E&T takes a look at the opportunities in fields as diverse as manufacturing, healthcare, criminal justice and many more. Where will it take you? Only time will tell.