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3.2. VR Vs Ar Vs MR

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Augmented Reality vs. Virtual Reality vs.

Mixed Reality

What is VR? ... and AR? ...and MR?

Virtual reality (VR) is an interactive, computer-generated depiction of a real or artificial


world or activity. Mixed reality (MR) is an interactive depiction or view of combined real-
world and computer-generated elements. Augmented reality (AR) is a real-world view with
additional, computer-generated enhancements.

That's one version, anyway. Ask a dozen people and you'll get a dozen different descriptions
of VR, AR and MR. One thing's for sure, however. From industry to education to
entertainment, it's increasingly a VR (...and AR... and MR) world.

Virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality: Differences and applications

The acronyms VR, AR and MR are often used interchangeably. And for many, "VR" is a
catch-all that applies to anything life-like that's computer generated. But the terms are clearly
distinct.

Virtual reality (VR) vs. augmented reality (AR) vs. mixed reality (MR)

Here's a simple way to understand the differences between VR, AR and MR:

 Virtual reality (VR) example:

A computer generated living room in which your simulated self can move around and
interact with the virtual furniture and houseplants or the simulated selves of other like
you.

 Augmented reality (AR) example:

A real-time view of your own living room that you can virtually enhance with
different paint or carpet colors or call up virtual "floating" screens to read email or
watch a game.

 Mixed reality (MR) example:

Another real-time view in which virtual selves or objects are also displayed -- but
where the real and artificial elements can interact (e.g., placing a virtual pencil on a
real table).

Again, these descriptions are simplified. Virtual reality (VR) is easy to distinguish from the
other technologies because it's a 100% digital experience, whereas the others combine real
and digital aspects. Meanwhile, the distinction between augmented reality (AR) and mixed
reality (MR) may be lessening, as in many ways, MR is just an enhanced, more interactive
kind of AR.

How are VR, MR and AR used?

Virtual reality, mixed reality and augmented reality are changing the way we live and work.
Surgeons can now train for life-saving operations on virtual operating tables. Home chefs can
use augmented eyeglasses to see step-by-step recipes while working at the stove. There are
even plans for vast, mixed reality warehouses where goggled staffers fill shipping boxes
based on packing lists that "float" before their eyes.

VR, AR and MR are changing the way we play, too, as each technology is being widely
applied in the computer gaming industry. Some of these games need just a smartphone while
others demand a VR gaming laptop or VR-ready tower PC. Viewing goggles (see the Lenovo
Mirage Solo) are sufficient to enjoy some games, but for more immersive experiences, there
are advanced VR headsets such as Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Microsoft Hololens and our
own Lenovo Explorer Lightweight Headset.

 Virtual reality gaming

VR games place users in completely digital, computer generated environments. Game


action is viewed with advanced VR headsets or goggles and controlled through the
movement of the headsets or other devices such as VR gloves, control pads, and so
on.

Which Companies Are Leading the VR Market Today?


 Augmented reality gaming

AR games place digital game elements into (or lay them over) the users' actual
environment but keep the digital/artificial aspects of the game separate. Some AR
games use head-mounted devices but others need only simple views such as through a
smartphone camera.

ARkit vs. ARCore – The Fight Between Apple and Google for AR Domination

Apple’s ARKit for iOS 11 promises to democratize AR content development and mass
consumption. It is a direct response to Google’s ARCore who have the advantage of
leveraging its knowledge from also being in the VR space, contrary to Apple. Both AR
design and development frameworks promise to simplify and accelerate the creation process
and put the technology in the hands of millions already using Android and iOS phones.
As augmented reality apps are still new to the mass market, it is too early to tell how really
different these development kits are, except that they are each specific to their own operating
systems and core audiences.

Now that the two most prominent tech companies—between them controlling 99% of the
smartphone market—have made such a public move behind augmented reality, we should be
ready to see industries being disrupted—again

 Mixed reality gaming

MR games combine real and digital elements in a way that allows the user to interact
with both at the same time. Unlike VR games, MR games are considered to be
"anchored" to actual physical space, so your coffee table can be an integral part of the
contest. Windows Mixed Reality is a popular mixed reality platform, although
analysts say it is still mostly VR focused at this time.
Apple and Google clearly lead the way on AR technology, but today’s MR landscape favors
Microsoft (HoloLens), and massively funded Magic Leap (so far a concept demo only).

Microsoft HoloLens and Magic Leap – The Two Kings of the Mixed Reality Race

How Are VR, AR, and MR Redefining the Way We See and Experience the
World?
The Future of Augmented, Virtual, and Mixed Realities

AR has shown a broader adoption rate if we consider the worldwide success of the Pokemon
Go hit. Today, all it takes to experience augmented reality is a smartphone with an up-to-date
OS, a decent camera, and an AR app—there is no cost of entry, and we have the whole world
as our canvas.

The recent entry of Apple into the AR game promises to even further boost augmented reality
trends. Tim Cook has voiced his position on the matter: “There are clearly some cool niche
things for VR, but it’s not profound in my view. AR is profound.”
Despite a longer history than AR or MR, virtual reality seems to have an audience problem,
mostly because of the high cost of adoption getting a decent VR headset, the physical
discomfort with prolonged use, and the lack of concrete use cases for the technology.

“How does virtual reality work?” is a question we often hear online as well as at VR events.
Notwithstanding, many sectors could use the technology to create new opportunities. For
example, virtual reality in the automotive industry shows some exciting possibilities.
Lastly, mixed reality is the perfect blending of real, augmented, and virtual reality.
“Applications are endless,” says Avegant CEO Joerg Tewes. He muses on
how designers and engineers could directly manipulate 3D models with their hands. “Mixed
reality enables people to interact directly with their ideas rather on screens or keyboards,” he
adds.
The world is on the verge of expanding its boundaries with immersive 3D content and the
digital realm like never before. It’s a unique opportunity for designers, engineers, and
companies alike to join the revolution.

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