What are the differences between VR, AR, and MR?.
In this blog, we explain the differences between virtual, augmented, and mixed reality, and through several practical examples, demonstrate how these applications can be used.
What is virtual reality?
Virtual reality, perhaps the most known of the three, is perceived as a completely simulated, digital world. This means that no images from the real world are displayed in the virtual world. Think of virtual reality like a game you're playing. You're completely immersed in a simulated world and can move in all directions.
Virtual Reality is still predominantly used for gaming applications. However, it's noticeable that the general public is becoming increasingly familiar with virtual reality, as big game development studios like Ubisoft and Valve are increasingly releasing exclusive triple-A VR games that can only be played with a VR headset (think of the new Half-Life: Alyx).
But there are now many other applications for virtual reality. For example, companies use virtual reality to train staff (or other participants). Consider KLM, which has replicated a virtual cockpit to familiarize (starting) pilots.
What is augmented reality?
A little less known, but certainly not less used, is augmented reality. This application lays a digital representation (in some cases in the form of an extensive hologram, in other cases in a simpler form like some data) over a glass, thus combining it with the physical world.
One of the most well-known augmented reality headsets currently is the Microsoft HoloLens 2. This AR-glasses can display full holograms realistically, allowing you to truly combine the real and virtual world. The company Velicus, for instance, makes good use of this by offering resuscitation courses with the HoloLens 2. As a user, you put the HoloLens 2 on your head and a 'virtual patient' is programmed on the floor. You can then perform the resuscitation steps on this patient.
An additional application of augmented reality, and one that is increasingly being used by companies, is 'remote assist'. With remote assist, you wear an AR glasses (like the Vuzix M400) and someone else can remotely view through the built-in camera. For instance, think of an electrician who comes to repair something at home, but does not exactly know what to do when replacing a certain part. When he has an AR glasses on, he can call on the help of a specialized colleague who can watch and give instructions remotely (both via audio and via a built-in screen in the glasses).
What is mixed reality?
Lastly, we can talk about Mixed Reality. Mixed reality is a combination of the physical world and the virtual world. Where augmented reality is really an 'overlay' between the two (for example with the help of holograms), mixed reality is more of a physical combination.
A good example of this is the recently released Varjo XR-3 headset. This headset (XR stands for Extended Reality) uses two cameras on the front of the glasses. When a user has the headset on, they can look at the real, physical world through these two cameras. Then, it is possible to bring a digital (VR) object into the real world through the glasses.
For instance, car manufacturer KIA recently launched a great application where users could call up a digital model of the latest car using the Varjo XR-3 in a large, empty garage. In this case, the users are physically in an empty parking garage and see absolutely nothing without a VR headset on. But when they do wear the VR headset, they see the latest model and can touch it and walk around it.
Want to know more about the differences between VR, AR, and MR? We're happy to help!
Need advice on the different forms of extended reality? Then you're in the right place! Please contact with us and we'll be glad to assist you! In addition to no-obligation advice, we offer (for businesses and other commercial customers) specialized consultancy and advisory conversations. Think about starting with a VR Arcade, or implementing augmented reality within your organization.
