You may have heard the words AR and VR floating around, but have been too afraid to ask what they really mean. We’re here to help! In this blog, we’ll discuss: (1) What exactly is AR and VR, (2) what is the difference between VR and AR, and (3) which is better, VR or AR?
What is AR and VR?
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are both immersive technologies that differ in the devices used and the level of user immersion. Think of it this way:
- Augmented Reality (AR) enhances the real world by adding digital elements to a live view.
For example: AR Filter on Instagram or the game Pokémon Go.
- VR is total immersion in a digital environment.
For example: BeatSaber on the Oculus Quest.
We also use terms like Mixed Reality (MR) and Extended Reality (XR). MR is the combination of AR and VR, where digital objects interact with the real world. A good example of this is the Microsoft HoloLens, or smart glasses. XR is an umbrella term for all immersive technologies. You may see the term XR used on our website to refer to our general work in VR and AR immersive technologies.
What is the difference between AR and VR?
Check out this helpful infographic to learn more about the differences between AR and VR:
As you can see from the graphic above, AR and VR differ in user immersion, the devices used, and their real-world applications.
Augmented Reality, or an enhanced version of the physical world, uses smartphones, tablets, and AR glasses to partially immerse the user in the experience. Applications of this technology can include AR Filters, AR apps for repair and maintenance, Fashion try-ons, AR apps for home remodeling, etc.
Virtual Reality, or complete immersion in a digital space, is experienced through a headset that splits the displayed image into two. The images are slightly offset, creating the illusion of 3D when viewed on the screens. Notable examples of VR headsets are the Oculus Quest, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, and Sony PlayStation VR. We will discuss the pros and cons of popular VR headsets in a future blog post. Applications for VR include fully virtual showrooms across industries, virtual staff training/meet-ups, virtual facility walk-throughs, etc.
Which is better: AR or VR?
We get asked this question a lot, and there really isn’t a simple answer. AR and VR both have strong applications across industries, but some projects are better suited to one than the other. For example, in-store experiences can utilize both AR for Smart Mirrors and VR for immersive customer experiences. However, if your customers are at home using their smartphones, an AR solution, like a virtual try-on or AR Filter, would be more suited. Other factors to consider are cost, accessibility, and application. Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry: our XR Consultants are here to help.
