Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

Now that there’s rapid growth in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) it’s easy to get confused between the technologies. While all are immersive technologies and have similarities, there are differences. Here is everything you need to know about virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).

What is the difference between VR and AR?

Augmented reality or AR allows people to add digital elements into their actual environment. You’ve probably interacted with this technology already. AR devices like the Microsoft HoloLens and various enterprise-level "smart glasses" are transparent, letting you see everything in front of you as if you are wearing a weak pair of sunglasses. The technology is designed for completely free movement while projecting images over whatever you look at. The concept extends to smartphones with AR apps and games like Pokémon Go, which use your phone's camera to track your surroundings and show additional information on top of the screen.

On the other hand, virtual reality or VR is a wholly immersive experience that allows the user to interact with a new virtual world. VR headsets completely take over your vision to give you the impression that you're somewhere else. The Oculus Rift and other headsets are completely opaque, blocking out your surroundings when you wear them. If you put them on when they're turned off, you might think you're blindfolded.

How VR and AR are impacting the world?

·     Education- Giving students virtual reality classrooms, game-based experiences, and inspiring creative learning.

·     Healthcare- Providing accessible therapies, remote surgery, hands-on training, and empathic immersion.

·     Business- Providing VR communication and collaboration, data visualization and remote training to employees.

·     Selfies- Providing funny and sweet filters and make plain pictures adorable.

·     Public Safety- Improving law enforcement and enhancing policing.

·     Navigation- Sending users immersive directions they can follow without a map.

·     Engaging environment- AR and VR create a new level of entertainment with the potential for a more private and emotional experience.

A new reality awaits

We are on the cutting edge of a completely new type of processing which can possibly change the manner in which people collaborate with media and advanced data. Our truths are progressively getting enlarged, virtual, and blended, making a vivid and connecting with the world around us.

More than simply “cool”, these new advancements can possibly shape how we envision, plan, make and also experience everything from movies and games to structures and vehicles, to training and learning. There is much to look forward to.