Augmented Reality vs Virtual Reality has been a topic of discussion among non-techies. With rapid advances, technology has become more complicated than ever, yet it hasn’t failed to simplify our lives.
These upcoming technologies are emerging; among them, VR or virtual reality and AR or augmented reality are very popular. They are being used in different industries like healthcare, education, etc.
Here, we explain VR vs AR in easy words. So stay connected till the end with us.
What Is Augmented Reality?
To understand the difference between virtual reality and augmented reality, we first need to learn what they are. AR, or augmented reality, is a technology that combines virtual information with the real world; it uses text, graphics, audio, and other VR elements to enhance real-world objects.
For instance, Tony Stark’s Iron Man helmet screen utilises augmented reality to display information. Another example is the Pokemon Go game, which allows gamers to interact with digital characters in the real world. A few AR gadgets are Google Glass, Microsoft HooloLens, Magic Leap One Headset, etc.
What is Virtual Reality?
Now, let’s decode VR in this augmented reality vs virtual reality guide. VR, or virtual reality, is a computer-generated environment that users can explore in 360 degrees. They can interact with digital objects in this world using wearable devices or a mouse.
As it was seen in the 2009 anime Sword Art Online. The show focuses on the use of VR. If you want a VR experience, devices like Meta Quest 3, Apple Vision Pro, Oculus Rift, and more can help.
Real-World Application of AR
The augmented reality vs virtual reality debate often revolves around their use cases. Check out the use cases of AR if you are learning the difference between AR and VR.
Displaying Information
As mentioned above, AR is used to display information. For example, in manufacturing settings with tablets or computers, AR allows supervisors to monitor what workers can see and instruct them to use certain equipment to complete processes.
Restaurant Services
In restaurants, AR can allow diners to view the menu and check out details about the food, like the size of an ordered burger or pizza. This reduces paper menu usage, saves money for the restaurant, and benefits the environment.
Warehouse Logistics
In warehouse logistics, workers can use AR glasses to find the shortest route to warehouses. It can also share information with peers to inform them that a delivery person has arrived to pick up an order or confirm the physical location of items.
Virtual Reality in Action in Real-World
The following points in this augmented reality vs virtual reality guide will help you learn the use cases of VR devices. If you are learning the difference between virtual reality and augmented reality, learn the use cases of VR first.
Evaluating Production
VR headsets can help analyse equipment, evaluate production processes, and train workers. For instance, workers can learn about the manufacturing process in VR simulation.
Creating Virtual Models of Products
Manufacturers can create digital copies of certain products to measure their lifecycle and gain valuable insights.
Healthcare Services
In healthcare, VR can simulate surgical procedures for training. It can also help people with mental health conditions by offering feared situations in a safe environment, etc. SimX and Osso VR are two VR platforms used in healthcare.
Augmented Reality vs Virtual Reality: Key Difference
We are at the last section of this augmented reality vs virtual reality debate. Check out the following points highlighting VR vs AR differences.
Augmented Reality vs Virtual Reality: Equipment
The first difference between virtual reality and augmented reality is the equipment both technologies use. AR can be enjoyed with smartphones, but VR requires wearable devices like headsets and glasses, adding upfront investment for users.
Augmented Reality vs Virtual Reality: Environment
Another key difference between AR and VR is the environment they offer. AR allows connecting to the virtual world in the real world, like a Pikachu standing next to you in Pokemon Go. However, VR offers a fictional world completely different from the real world, which you explore with gadgets.
The Future With Immersive Technology
AR and VR are two of the key technologies used in blended learning. You must have learned about augmented reality vs virtual reality differences. Both technologies are being used in combination. Over time, this difference between AR and VR is likely to become less defined. However, the line between VR vs AR differences won’t disappear fully.
FAQs
1- Is AR more pocket-friendly than VR?
AR is pocket-friendly, but VR also justifies its high price.
2- Can you Watch Netflix with VR?
Yes, it’s possible, thanks to Netflix VR; you can put on your headset and enjoy your favorite movies and shows in the virtual world.
3- What are the types of AR?
There are 5 AR types: Marker-based, Markerless, projection-based, superimposition-based, and location-based AR.
