Virtual Reality vs Augmented Reality - What's the Difference?
As technology has advanced, we have come across various terms like virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, and extended reality. Out of these, Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality are two commonly used terms. Although both have similarities, they also have fundamental differences. Let's dive into a comparison of Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality!
Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual Reality is a simulated experience that allows an individual to engage in a computer-generated environment. It provides complete immersion in the digital world and blocks out the physical world entirely. VR headsets like the Oculus Quest 2 or HTC Vive can trick your brain into feeling like you are in a different place, making you forget about your real surroundings entirely.
Some popular applications of VR include gaming, training, education, and entertainment. VR gaming has been on the rise, with players spending hours in a virtual world playing their favorite games.
Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented Reality, on the other hand, is an enhanced version of the real world. It is a technology that overlays computer-generated content onto the real world. Unlike VR, AR does not require any special headsets or equipment to access the digital content. You can access AR content through a smartphone, tablet, or smart glasses.
Popular applications of AR include advertising, gaming, education, and real estate. A popular example of AR is the game Pokemon Go, where the player uses their smartphone to capture Pokemon overlaid on the real world.
What's the difference?
Although VR and AR have similarities, they also have some fundamental differences. Here are some key differences between Virtual reality vs. Augmented Reality:
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Environment: The primary difference between the two is that VR is an entirely virtual environment, whereas AR is an extension of the real environment. VR has a dedicated physical space and equipment, while AR is location-based.
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Interaction: VR provides complete immersion in the digital environment, while AR allows interaction between the physical and digital environment, adding digital features to real-world objects.
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Equipment: VR requires special hardware, including headsets and accessories, while AR can be achieved simply with a mobile device incorporating a camera and an AR application.
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Usage: VR is usually used for immersive entertainment spaces, training, simulations, and sometimes visualizations of abstract data, while AR is usually used in real-world contexts, such as education, gaming, or product placement.
Conclusion
In summary, the Virtual reality vs Augmented Reality debate is a discussion about the extent to which technology can be used to enhance our experience and knowledge of the world. Virtual reality offers an entirely new environment, whereas augmented reality enriches the existing one. Although both offer similar benefits, each has its respective advantages and drawbacks.
We hope this post has provided a factual and unbiased comparison of Virtual Reality vs Augmented Reality, helping you understand the key differences between the two!
References
- Virtual Reality vs Augmented Reality: What's the difference? (2021, June 7). Retrieved from https://www.infiniumglobalresearch.com/blog/infographics/virtual-reality-vs-augmented-reality-whats-difference
- Augmented Reality vs. Virtual Reality: What Are the Differences and Similarities? (2021, September 28). Retrieved from https://arpost.co/2021/09/28/virtual-reality-vs-augmented-reality-what-are-the-differences-and-similarities/