Smartphone-based MR vs PC-based MR
Mixed Reality (MR) is now a popular technology that merges virtual objects with the real world. There are two main types of MR devices, the smartphone-based MR and the PC-based MR. While both have similar functionalities, they differ in terms of hardware requirements, limiting factors, and overall user experience. In this blog post, we will dive into the details and compare smartphone-based MR and PC-based MR.
Smartphone-based MR
As the name suggests, smartphone-based MR refers to augmented reality experiences achievable on smartphones. It involves the use of the device's camera and sensors to superimpose graphics or information onto the real world. Common examples of smartphone-based MR include Snapchat filters, Pokemon Go, and Ikea Place app.
Pros:
- Portability: One of the best things about smartphone-based MR is that you can take it anywhere you go, provided you have a smartphone. It weighs nothing extra and does not require external power sources or additional hardware.
- Cost-efficient: Most modern smartphones have built-in sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers that are essential for MR. This saves users the cost of buying expensive hardware, making it a cheaper alternative.
- User-friendly: The user interface and overall experience of smartphone-based MR is simple and intuitive for users. The apps are easy to navigate with no complex setup procedures.
- Availability: Smartphone-based MR apps are readily available on app stores, making them easily accessible to anyone with a smartphone.
Cons:
- Graphics quality: Due to the limited processing power of smartphones, the graphics quality and overall experience of smartphone-based MR are not as advanced or as smooth as PC-based MR.
- Limitations to functionalities: Several limitations include processing power, memory storage, battery life, and lack of positional tracking. As a result, you may notice jittery graphics or lag when using smartphone-based MR apps.
- Dependent on camera quality: The quality of the camera determines the overall experience of smartphone-based MR. A subpar camera can result in an inferior and less precise MR experience.
PC-based MR
PC-based MR involves the use of head-mounted displays (HMDs), which are connected to the computer, to provide an immersive mixed reality experience. The HMDs then communicate with the computer to display a virtual world.
Pros:
- Advanced graphics and smooth performance: PC-based MR has better processing power, allowing for a more advanced MR experience. The graphics are more detailed and offer a smoother performance.
- Extra functionalities: PC-based MR devices come equipped with advanced functionalities such as positional tracking, haptic feedback, and hand motion detection which enhances MR experiences.
- Versatility: PC-based MR provides more versatility in terms of the types of MR experiences that one can have. One can take advantage of multiple software applications that are tailored for MR.
Cons:
- Expensive: PC-based MR is way too expensive than smartphone-based MR since it requires external hardware to work.
- Limited portability: PC-based MR requires external hardware, making it less portable than smartphone-based MR.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between smartphone-based MR and PC-based MR comes down to individual preferences and priorities. If you're on a budget but want to experience MR, smartphone-based MR offers a cheaper and more accessible alternative. But if you're looking for an advanced and immersive experience, PC-based MR provides a more detailed and smoother experience at a premium cost.
References:
- "What is Mixed Reality?" Microsoft. [Online]. Available: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/mixed-reality/what-is-mixed-reality.
- "What is smartphone-based MR? How does it work?" ZapWorks. [Online]. Available: https://zap.works/smartphone-based-mr/.
- "What is PC-based MR?" Digital Trends. [Online]. Available: https://www.digitaltrends.com/virtual-reality/what-is-pc-based-vr/