AR, VR, XR and MR Defined

AR, VR, XR and MR Defined
AR, VR, XR and MR Defined Sharad Agarwal August 27, 2023

Certainly, here are definitions for the terms AR, VR, XR, and MR:

AR (Augmented Reality):
Augmented Reality is a technology that overlays digital information, such as images, videos, or 3D models, onto the real world. AR enhances a user’s perception of the physical environment by adding digital elements that can be interacted with in real time. AR is often experienced through smartphones, tablets, smart glasses, and other devices. Popular examples include Pokémon GO and Snapchat filters.

VR (Virtual Reality):
Virtual Reality is a technology that immerses users in a completely virtual environment, often generated by computer software. VR isolates users from the real world and places them in a simulated environment where they can interact with objects and elements as if they were physically present. This is usually achieved through specialized VR headsets, motion tracking, and handheld controllers. VR is commonly used for gaming, training simulations, and immersive experiences.

XR (Extended Reality):
Extended Reality is an umbrella term that encompasses all immersive technologies, including AR, VR, and MR (Mixed Reality). XR is used to refer to the entire spectrum of experiences that involve blending the physical and digital worlds, regardless of whether the digital elements are overlaid on the real world (AR), create a fully virtual environment (VR), or interact with and respond to the real world (MR).

MR (Mixed Reality):
Mixed Reality is a blend of both the physical and digital worlds, where digital objects and interactions are seamlessly integrated into the real environment and interact with it in a natural way. In MR, users can interact with and manipulate both real and virtual objects simultaneously. This technology often requires more complex hardware and software setups compared to AR or VR. Microsoft’s HoloLens is an example of a mixed reality headset.

In summary, these terms represent different levels of immersion and interaction between the real and digital worlds. AR adds digital content to the real world, VR creates a fully virtual environment, MR merges digital and real-world elements seamlessly, and XR encompasses all these technologies as a collective term.


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