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July 20, 2018

An Overview of AR and VR Technology and Applications


If you keep up with news in the technology and science fields, chances are you have heard the terms AR and VR. What is the difference? What are some of the exciting applications of this technology? Here is a summary of these two cutting-edge technologies and a sample of just a few of the practical applications. As these capabilities continue to advance, there will likely be even more uses in the next few years.



Augmented Reality

Less immersive than virtual reality, augmented reality involves adding graphics, sounds, and other elements to the natural world. These additions don't replace the natural elements the user sees; rather, AR additions enhance or modify the real world to change the user's experience. Some well-known mobile games, such as Pokemon Go, have made AR technology attractive to a large number of users.

Virtual Reality

In contrast to AR, virtual reality creates a simulated environment in which the user is completely encompassed. The most common VR technology is a headset that entirely covers the user's eyes. With this, the user can view and interact with a completely simulated environment. Most VR systems respond to a user's movement and position, so he or she can look around a 360-degree simulated environment by turning his or her head, just like in real life. Some systems also include controllers or gloves that allow the user to interact with virtual elements and items.

AR and VR in Gaming and Entertainment

Many of the most commonly known applications for both AR and VR are in the gaming and entertainment industries. Many of the top gaming companies are investing in VR technology for computer and console games. There are also several mobile apps and games that utilize AR and VR technologies.

Many people see uses for AR and VR in entertainment and informational settings as well. For example, AR could be used to display location-specific advertising to users. Interactive maps are another possibility for AR or VR technology. For the most part, VR and AR games and applications have received enough good user feedback to encourage further development. Chances are the market for these types of games and experiences will continue to grow.

Applications in Education and Research

Along with "fun" applications such as video games, there are several practical applications for AR and VR as well. Many of these are related to education. Students can access AR overlays that trace constellations and provide other astronomical information. There are also VR options for studying space and the solar system, many of which are designed to make these concepts more accessible to young learners. Human anatomy and physiology are other subjects that benefit from high-quality VR options. These apps can provide the kind of immersive learning environment once only available through dissection.

While AR and VR have existed in sci-fi stories for quite a while, real-life versions of these technologies are just starting to make their way to the market. While there are several video games and entertainment apps available, these tools can also be extremely powerful in academic and research applications. As AR and VR equipment becomes more accessible and affordable, chances are there it will start to play a significant role in everyday life.



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