Virtual Reality Vs Augmented Reality (VR vs. AR)

The two different technologies that are now trending in the world of technology are virtual reality and augmented reality. Both technologies have earned significant media attention in recent times and are each promising lots of growth. Read on as we find out how to differentiate between virtual and augmented reality.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual reality is essentially a computer-generated recreation or simulation of an immersive real-life situation or environment. Through advanced technology, VR makes the user feel like they are actually experiencing the artificial simulated reality, mainly by stimulating hearing and vision. A virtual reality is normally achieved through wearing an advanced headset like the Oculus, which is equipped with VR technology and is primarily used in two ways:

• Creating and enhancing an artificial reality for gaming and entertainment (yes, even adult entertainment).
• Enhancing training for applications in real life, like better flight simulators.
• Creating a unique travel experience. Some experts believe that VR will be widely used to preview vacations before committing.

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality refers to a technology used to layer computer-generated enhancements on top of an already existing reality for a more meaningful interaction.  AR is therefore developed into applications and utilized on smart devices to blend digital elements into the real world so that they enhance each other, but can be easily told apart. Have you seen the movie Terminator?

Augmented technology is rapidly entering the mainstream as you can now find it being used for displaying score overlays in live sports games as well as in pop out text messages and 3D emails on smartphones. AR can even be used to create holograms. Google Glass was a good first attempt but perhaps was ahead of itself. Time will tell if Google can create a useful version of the Google Glass.  However, Microsoft’s HoloLens is very promising for the world of augmented reality.

Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality

Virtual and augmented reality can, therefore, be considered as inverse reflections of each other in terms of what each technology accomplishes and delivers to the user. While VR provides an artificial digital reproduction of a live environment, AR delivers the virtual components like a noticeable overlay to existing reality.

How does virtual and augmented reality work together?

These two technologies are usually used together to create a much more immersive experience for the user. Through combining virtual and augmented reality, developers can create a more realistic virtual world. For instance, the sensation and vibration added to the interaction with any graphics is known as haptic feedback, which is regarded as an augmentation. This haptic feedback can be added in a VR setting to for a more lifelike experience through touch.

Augmented and virtual reality are excellent examples of interactions and experiences driven by the wish to become fully immersed in an artificial simulated environment for play and entertainment. These two technologies also add a brand new interaction dimension between real world reality and digital devices. Blended together or alone, they are both certainly amazing technologies.