Virtual Reality VS. Augmented Reality VS. Mixed Reality

Emerging technology with an immersive experience. This article exemplifies different types of emerging technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality. These technologies have been advancing in multi-media, gaming, therapy, education, and design. Shortly, it will be seamlessly integrated into your everyday lifestyle.

Virtual Reality (VR)

What is VR? Virtual Reality is a computer-stimulated reality, that places the physical presence in a computer generated environment. This immersive experience allows users to interact with features, and look around the virtual world. How does it work? By using a virtual reality headset (Oculus Rift, HTC VIVE, Google Cardboard, etc.), user is placed into a computer stimulated world.

Oculus Rift wearable VR headset , a truly immersive experience

Types of VR Headset:

VR headset can be categorized into three different groups. One type of head mounted display (HMD) connected to PC allows consumers to have a full-immersive experience. Another type of HMD is where the application is attached to smartphone. And the third type of HMD is the cost-efficient handheld solutions. Each these group provide a different experience, and the quality of immersive experiences varies. Handheld VR Kit are an affordable option. A classic example is the google Cardboard launched by Google. Which is an open source platform that allows users to design application using googles' available specification. With a limited level of freedom, google cardboard uses simple gyro control, and a single click option for interaction accessing menu. On the other hand, smartphone headsets are advanced compared to handheld HMD. A known example of smartphone headset is GearVR by Samsung. These headsets have adjustable straps attached to the headsets, and are able to connect to game controllers. Ordinarily, these devices have a secure housing for the smartphones. Other examples of HMD are The Zeiss VR One, Freefly, Noon VR, Homido, and Archos. Each of these headsets have their advantages and disadvantages, finding the right headset for the your smartphone is the key as not all HMD are compatible with all smartphones. Finally the HMD that are attached to the PC, known for its intriguing immersive experience. These devices are far more expensive compared to handheld, and smartphone headset. An example is Oculus Rift which offer a high fidelity graphics, tracking position, have a combination of gyros and IR camera, and interactive controllers. Other examples of HMD are HTC Vive, FOVE, OSVR, Sulon Cortex, and StartVR.

Google Cardboard viewer developed by google

Augmented Reality (AR)

What is AR? Augmented Reality is a computer-generated stimuli (graphics, sounds, and touch feedback) over a live camera feed into a headset, or through a smartphone or tablet device. Altering and adding to real-world. How does it work? A digital interface such as smartphone or an AR browser is placed over a real-world, where the computer-generated stimuli can be visible. Here the computer-generated stimuli (3D model or sound) is augmented into the real-world using a digital device. Types of Devices: AR devices ranges in its form from smartphones, and tablets to smart-glasses like Vuzix AR3000.

Steinway Augmented Reality App by ViewAR, projection of piano on iPhone is an example of AR.

Mixed Reality (MR)

What is Mixed Reality? Mixed Reality is the combination of real and virtual world where both worlds co-exist. Sometimes referred to as hybrid reality. How does it work? By using a projector to display virtual image or world through a semi-transparent material. Types of Device and Headsets: Hololens launched by Microsoft is an example of mixed reality device. Allowing the user to view real world through a semi-transparent glass, and virtual world projected on the glasses towards the eye. While CastAR designed for VR and AR application projects onto a special fabric surface.

Microsoft Hololens partnership with Ford is an example of Mixed Reality in action.

Usage of VR, AR, and MR:

Gaming: Gaming in VR, AR and MR has been a large market for video game industries. During the early-mid 1990, VR head mounted displays were released. Which included Virtual Boy developed by Nintendo, iGlasses by Virtual I-O, Cybermaxx by Victorimaxx, and VFX1 Headgear by Forte Technologies. Few modern examples of VR for gaming are Kinect and PlayStation Move/PlayStation Eye. Other popular head mounted displays include the Oculus Rift and the HTC Vive. Along with the head mounted display, gaming in VR is incorporating playable gears to enhance the immersive experience. On the other hand, gaming experience incorporating real world has open new doors to gaming companies. Notably Niantic released AR Pokemon Go game, which soon became a popular hit challenging gamer' to be more active in the real world. Entertainment and cinema: Entertainment and cinema production companies utilize VR as tool to allow users to experience scenes in 360 degree environment. Alternative to watching a film on video, this allows the user to have an immersive experience. Research: VR has also played a large role for scientists and researchers to conduct experimental studies in a cost-effective manner. Allowing researchers to replicate, and study participants in controlled environment. Healthcare and Therapy: While VR in healthcare is helping in the form of clinical therapy. It is also addressing anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, phobias, pain management, and behavioral therapy. VR's immersive characteristic could potentially distract users from the current state, and divert them to a new state. Perhaps a new method to alter, and divert attention. Education: VR is used in various form of education and training by enhancing learning outcome and increasing attention. Where text and materials are converted into 3D visuals and interactive components, giving education system a whole new perspective to teaching. Archaeology: In archaeology, VR is used to reconstruct inaccessible heritage site, and historical events. Helping users visualize ancient civilization using 3D reconstructions. Similarly in architectural design, VR is used in a cost efficient way to prototype, and visualize constructions plans, and user experience of how it would be to live in that space ahead to construction. Marketing: Among the usage of VR, companies are using VR and AR for marketing campaigns. Bring imaginary elements to live using 3D models and animations. While retailer's are using VR and AR to reconstruct space and products. For example, IKEA has developed a AR application to bring their products closer to customers. Implications: The long-term usages effect on health and safety is still unknown and yet to be explored. Factors such as disorienting users in virtual environment, and VR motion sickness are concerns to be addressed. Although VR, AR and MR has started pioneering in various forms, it is still in it's infancy. These advanced technologies are becoming user centered, designed to accommodate user needs and wants. Researchers and companies are interested in learning the human body. Designing applications ranging from using bio-feedback to alter the virtual environment to extracting brainwaves to define, and classify emotions. The future of these advanced technologies are unknown, however it is becoming seamlessly integrated into our life sooner then it may appear.

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