Augmented Reality vs. Virtual Reality

Augmented reality and virtual reality are two of the ways that tech can change the way you look at the world. The terms can be confusing. Sometimes people think AR and VR are the same thing. Augmented reality and virtual reality are increasingly used in technology, so knowing the difference is important.

Augmented Reality

Augmented reality is defined as "an enhanced version of reality created by the use of technology to add digital information on an image of something." AR is used in apps for smartphones and tablets. AR apps use your phone's camera to show you a view of the real world in front of you, then put a layer of information, including text and/or images, on top of that view.

Apps can use AR for fun, such as the game Pokémon GO, or for information, such as the app Layar.

Virtual Reality

Virtual Reality is defined as "the use of computer technology to create a simulated environment." When you view VR, you are viewing a completely different reality than the one in front of you.

With virtual reality, you can move around and look in every direction -- up, down, sideways and behind you, as if you were physically there.

With virtual reality apps, you can explore places you have never been, such as the surface of Mars, the top of Mt. Everest, or areas deep under the sea.  The New York Times has a virtual reality app that lets you experience virtual environments on Earth and other planets.

Google Earth also has a virtual reality app.

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