Virtual Reality Versus Augmented Reality

Virtual reality has been touted as the future of entertainment for a long time now. From video gaming to sports, many have pointed toward VR as one of the most promising and exciting potential developments. But then Pokémon Go! happened, and all of a sudden augmented reality was not just on the radar, but making serious waves. So what’s the difference between VR and AR? And which is going to be more successful?

VR is an artificial, computer-generated simulation of a real-life environment or situation. Using the latest tech developments, VR aims to place users in settings that they may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience – including exclusive catwalks and NBA games.

AR enhances the users’ experience of reality by layering computer-generated augmentations on top of reality, typically via a mobile app. By blending digital components with the real world, AR aims to make users’ experience of the real world more interesting or entertaining.

VR, then, appears to be a more ambitious project. Because of this, those who want to get in on the VR action have to invest in a headset (such as the Oculus Rift) as well as other tech (such as HTC Vive and Virtuix Omni) in order to get the most believable experience.

And perhaps it is for this reason that, even though plenty of incredible VR tech is available, it was Pokémon Go! (by comparison a fairly-humble offering) that revolutionised the world of gaming. After all, nearly everyone has a smartphone, and so the game was readily available to a huge demographic the day it was released.

But this does not mean that VR will go away. On the contrary, though some are calling the VR industry over-hyped and destined to fail, the popularity of AR will heighten the public’s awareness of these technologies, bringing more attention to VR in the process.

If the high cost and technological barriers of VR have prevented it from becoming the sensation many predicted, AR may be its saving grace. Though the two technologies have different aims (VR seeks to create an alternative to reality; AR seeks to enhance reality) they are, in many ways, compatible. Indeed, many companies are now blending AR and VR together to create even more immersing experiences. To see some of the latest VR/AR developments, check outIamVR – a great site which covers all things VR/AR.

Steve Good from IamVR says that the future is actually a Mixed Reality,

"Augmented Reality requires using an iPhone or tablet to see something extra in our reality. But when you use Microsoft Hololens or look at Magic Leap, then we are talking about a reality which is mixed between our reality and the new reality all in one point of view. It's really the next big step in the world of VR."

What do you think about VR and AR? Has AR stolen VR’s thunder – or is will AR’s success benefit VR?

Let me know your thoughts below.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maria Hvorostovsky is the founder of HVO Search, an executive search firm helping clients within digital, retail, fashion, consumer and technology industries find the best international talent. 

The firm focuses on recruiting exceptional leaders as well as helping to build the senior management teams across all functions.