Virtual Reality v/s Augmented Reality

• Fri 09-Dec, 2022
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Virtual Reality v/s Augmented Reality

Definition:

Augmented reality: It is a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user's view of the real world, thus providing a composite view. Augmented reality (or AR) lets a user see the real-life environment right in front of him / her. One of the most common examples of AR is the popular game Pokemon Go. It was released in 2016 and quickly became a huge sensation. In the game, players locate and capture Pokemons that pop up in the real world, on the pavements, in a fountain, even in your their houses.

Augmented reality (AR) is an enhanced version of the real physical world that is achieved through the use of digital visual elements, sound, or other sensory stimuli and delivered via technology. It is a growing trend among companies involved in mobile computing and business applications in particular. Amid the rise of data collection and analysis, one of augmented reality’s primary goals is to highlight specific features of the physical world, increase understanding of those features, and derive smart and accessible insight that can be applied to real-world applications. Such big data can help inform companies’ decision making and gain insight into consumer spending habits, among others.

Different types of augmented reality (AR)

There are different types of augmented reality technology that are proper for different types of tasks. The two main types of AR are:

 

Marker-based AR applications are triggered by specific physical images (markers) captured by the camera to position the digital content on top of it. A marker can be an object or a visual such as logos, posters, or QR codes. The video below demonstrates a marker-based AR. The business card acts as a marker for the AR application which displays additional digital information after it encounters the card.

 

Markerless AR does not depend on markers and lets users decide where to display the digital content. Markerless AR applications rely on the camera, GPS, compass, and accelerometer of the device to gather information about the environment.

There are also different types of markerless AR technology:

 

Superimposition-based AR detects the objects in the real world and partially or fully replaces their original view.

 

Projection-based AR does not need a display device as it projects light onto a surface to display digital objects.

 

Location-based AR provides augmentation in specific places. It uses the device’s GPS and compass to position the virtual object at a point of interest. Pokemon GO mobile game is a popular example that uses location-based AR.

 

Virtual reality: Virtual Reality (VR) involves computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real way by a person using special electronic equipment, such as a helmet with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors. That person becomes part of this virtual world or is immersed within this environment and whilst there, is able to manipulate objects or perform a series of actions.

Different Types of Virtual Reality

All three types of VR, from non-immersive, semi-immersive, full immersive or a mixture of them, are also referred to as extended reality (XR). Three types of virtual reality experiences provide different levels of computer-generated simulation.

The three main VR categories are the following:

·         Non-Immersive Virtual Reality: This category is often overlooked as VR simply because it’s so common. Non-immersive VR technology features a computer-generated virtual environment where the user simultaneously remains aware and controlled by their physical environment. Video games are a prime example of non-immersive VR.

·         Semi-Immersive Virtual Reality: This type of VR provides an experience partially based in a virtual environment. This type of VR makes sense for educational and training purposes with graphical computing and large projector systems, such as flight simulators for pilot trainees.

·         Fully Immersive Virtual Reality: Right now, there are no completely immersive VR technologies, but advances are so swift that they may be right around the corner. This type of VR generates the most realistic simulation experience, from sight to sound to sometimes even olfactory sensations. Car racing games are an example of immersive virtual reality that gives the user the sensation of speed and driving skills. Developed for gaming and other entertainment purposes, VR use in other sectors is increasing.

·         The virtual technology definition includes specific shared characteristics. Not only immersive, they are also computer-generated, believable as multidimensional experiences, and interactive.

 

Augmented Reality vs. Virtual Reality

Augmented reality and virtual reality are often confused, so let’s clarify. Augmented reality uses the existing real-world environment and puts virtual information—or even a virtual world—on top of it to enhance the experience. For example, think of Pokémon Go, where users are searching in their real-life neighborhoods for animated characters that pop up on their phone or tablet. In the NFL, broadcasters use AR technology to better analyze plays. In contrast, virtual reality immerses users into an entirely different environment, typically a virtual one created and rendered by computers. For example, virtual reality users may be immersed in an animated scene or a digital environment. Virtual reality can also be used to photograph an actual local location and embed it in a VR app. Through a virtual reality headset, someone can walk around Italy as if they were actually there.

Uses

1.      AR finds its uses in the Interior designing industry. It is used in visualizing the final product even in the construction phase. One can choose their favourite paint colour or select their desired furniture or wall hanging even without buying it.

2.      One of the prime sectors that have been impacted by AR in recent times is the education sector. With the advent of AR technology, classroom learning has become more entertaining and interesting.

3.      It has become a significant component of the showbiz and entertainment industry. AR technology is used in Television Broadcasting along with widescale uses in entertainment programs, sports and computer games.

4.      AR allows retailers to let their customers try products before buying them. For instance, IKEA Place app lets customers to place furniture in desired places so that they can visualize how the item will look in their homes.

5.      VR can be used in the sector of architecture. It can render different levels of detail that are important in early stages of the design. Architects can create an immersive experience to visualize mass and space relationships. Other uses can show how light will affect the proposed space, based on window placement.

6.      Aviation sector also uses VR for training purposes. Realistic cockpits designed using VR technology are used to train commercial pilots in training programs incorporating live instruction with virtual flight.

7.      Journalism is yet another sector touched by the VR technology. Immersive journalism allows the first-person experience of events or situations described in documentary films and news reports.

Advantages of VR and AR

1.      One of the major advantages of Augmented Reality is that it creates a unique digital experience that blends the best of digital and physical worlds. It does not require any complex and special equipment. Mainstream smartphones and mobile apps are sufficient to experience Augmented Reality.

2.      AR presents information in neatly summarized digital snippets. It saves the user from having to process too much information to arrive at a conclusion.

3.      Augmented reality helps in creating immersive training modules that do not need large equipment and budget. AR-based tools help employees visualize and simulate different scenarios for training purposes.

4.      Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) is being developed by Microsoft in partnership with the US Army to improve soldiers' situational awareness, comms, battlefield navigation, and overall operational efficiency. IVAS integrates Microsoft's HoloLens tech and features a heads-up display (HUD), thermal imaging, interactive maps, and overhead compass. With it, soldiers can track and share enemy positions across the board. It can also detect friendly, neutral, and hostile targets. It allows you to see in the dark (night vision), to see through smoke, and even peek around corners, thanks to multiple front-facing head-mounted cameras. Soldiers can also look back and review ops by watching a video game-like replay of their last operation, among many other features.

5.      AR increases efficiency and enable logistics companies to cut costs in warehousing and transportation. AR-enabled devices can instruct human workers in a warehouse by displaying shortest routes to a shelf and provide information about items on the shelves.

6.      Virtual reality technology is used in video games and user gets a feeling that he is in another world. It improves his / her experience.

7.      The VR technology makes users feel that they experience the real locations and hearing the real sounds and seeing the real things. Many people have the feeling to use more and more virtual reality technology.

8.      Virtual reality gives a full and detailed view of a place. For example virtual reality make tourism sites more interesting and easy. It gives the detailed view of a place where you want to visit.

9.      Virtual reality gives the chances to communicate with the people you don’t know in your real life. It helps in forming the new connections.

Disadvantages of VR and AR

1.      One of the major disadvantages of augmented reality is that it is based on the collection, analysis and different types of data, particularly through the application of large data chunks, thus raising concerns over privacy and security.

2.      AR distorts the line between the real world and the digital world. Hence, another drawback or disadvantage of augmented reality centers on possible dangers that come from reality modification.

3.      High cost is one of the major disadvantages of VR.  It's difficult for everyone to afford it. It is too expensive and people who cannot afford it will be left out from using this technology.

4.      It may have serious mental effects. The users of virtual reality at times get a feeling of worthlessness. They feel that they are escaping from the real world and sometimes this feeling is proved to be very dangerous for them.

5.      It can cause addiction. The users get addicted to the virtual world and navigate the non-virtual environment. This addiction can cause various health issues to them.

 

 

Career in VR and AR

A few years ago, if someone had thought about having a career in VR or AR industries, then only the gaming sector would have come to his mind. However, in recent times, with technological advancements, the employment opportunities in the VR and AR field have also grown and diversified. The number of jobs for developers who specialize in creating immersive digital experiences is gaining momentum. As per the experts, over 23 million jobs by 2023 will be created in the VR and AR sector. There may be quite a few job openings for various skill levels: from entry-level positions to senior-level jobs with high salaries and excellent benefits. However, many technical skills are required to land a job in the AR and VR sector. The first thing that one will need is a good understanding of 3D graphics. One should know what stack, shaders, and APIs are.

Having good problem-solving skills is also very essential. One need to solve problems using the knowledge gained from your education and experience. One should be able to write efficient code in any language of one’s choice. At last, one needs to articulate one’s ideas and concepts well to engage effectively with all your clients in their respective mediums of communication. Working in the VR/AR industry, one would be constantly immersed in a creative environment that pushes him / her to explore his / her creative limits.

Future of VR and AR

In the future, VR AR developers would look forward to discussing the potential of their collaboration. They will look into getting a clear idea of how advanced machine learning algorithms and other AI methodologies can aid the computers and other devices in visualizing things and understanding them effectively. This will further lead to the emergence of highly interactive workspaces and improved image recognition facilities.

In future it is possible that the VR and AR industries join hands with automation industry. In the coming time, various automotive industry leaders will embrace the idea of using the VR and AR technology trends to redefine the way people move and travel in the form of voice assistants, in-car AR, and more.

Faster network services in the future will increase the pace of data transfer to the cloud, its processing, and formation of a virtual image that will later deliver an enhanced virtual experience to the consumers.

Summarizing it altogether, it can be said that AR and VR technologies will touch other technological sectors and improve the visual experience of the end users. 

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