By now, we’ve heard all about virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) and how they are made common in our day-to-day lives. In comparison, extended reality (XR) may seem like a new term for us. Don’t worry. It’s not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, you probably have already experienced it in one way or another.
Defining realities
Extended reality is defined as “an environment or experience that combines virtual and physical realities through the use of computer technology or wearable technologies.” Considered an umbrella term, it covers VR, AR, and mixed reality (MR). Sometimes, these terms are often interchanged, but each has its defining feature that distinguishes it from the others. Let’s dig into the similarities and differences between these three.
Virtual reality
Think about any VR game available in the market today. Now, you might notice a required accessory, such as a VR headset, which you need to have to get into the VR world. With the device, players are transported into a virtual world where they can interact with other players inside the game. VR headsets project images of a digital world, therefore blocking any interaction with the physical world outside. Simply put, the world inside the virtual reality can only be manifested from the VR device on your head.
What is the difference between AR and VR in business? Augmented reality overlays digital information into the real world. Virtual reality places users in an entirely digital world that completely shuts out the real world.
#augmentedreality #mixedreality #virtualreality pic.twitter.com/aJh3lQODfI— James Ladlee (@JimLadlee) January 30, 2024
Augmented reality
Pokémon GO is a perfect example of what AR is. Players in the real world use their smartphones to catch Pokémons virtually. Unlike VR, AR uses the physical world while adding digital components to it. This is how Pokémon pops up on our phone screens when we point to a certain physical location. When using AR, the objects seem to appear physically in our world. Like VR, gadgets are also required to enjoy AR, but they don’t necessarily have to be wearables. For instance, using a smartphone’s camera enables AR users to overlay digital objects into our world.
Mixed reality
MR includes a combination of AR and VR. In this type of experience, users can interact with both physical and digital components around them. A 3D hologram that users can interact with is an example of MR. Unlike AR, where there is no interaction but mere projection, users of MR are affected by both virtual and physical factors. Somehow, MR can be considered an extension of AR, with the added feature of interaction between the digital and physical components.
Mixed vs. Augmented Reality: This underscores the distinct interactions achievable within mixed reality, where virtual elements are capable of manipulation within actual surroundings.#Holography #innovation #augmentedreality #ArtificialInteligence #technology #AI #MixedReality pic.twitter.com/XjVAmCHOrC
— Faramarz Yousefi (@_fyousefi) May 8, 2024
Extended reality explained: A world immersed with XR technology
XR is being used in various fields today, from commerce to education, among others. Classes and skill training may be conducted remotely with the help of XR technology, such as 3D projections. Businesses and companies use XR technology for manufacturing process simulation. Designers take advantage of extended reality to bring their vision and ideas to life better. The medical field has been benefitting from XR to improve the healthcare system. Every day, technology is taking a step towards further improvement of life and innovation. From the way things are looking, it seems like XR technology is here to stay.
Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Christopher Isak with Midjourney for TechAcute.
