xR - transforming physical & digital world

Virtual Reality (VR) is a way of using technology to create environments designed for interaction between physical & digital world. This environment is, of course, different than our physical environment and at times it also merges physical environment with digital environment/objects in the digital world. At times, VR is also referred as gateway to digital world.

Virtual reality creates an immersive experience by alloing the user to create and replicate any environment for simulated interactions and computing. More historical information about VR can be browsed here.

In 2017, Virtual Reality (VR) has been one of the top 10 technologies to watch for. With the rise of consumer grade VR technology, we have entered an era where we would be consuming multiple flavors of this technology. There are 3 popular variants of this technology namely Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR).

I have given the term "xR" to refer to these variants. xR is used to enhance Customer Experience, improve on operational processes and roll out new age business models.

Virtual Reality (VR)

VR (Virtual Reality) creates a virtual 3D world using computer simulation technologies and delivers users visual view and hearing so that users fully immerse in the virtual world. The VR user is immersed in a pre-programmed digitized world delivered through the device. All a user has to do is to wear the helmet or goggles and there's already a different world waiting to be explored and a role to be played. The classical products at present are Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear, Sony Playstation VR and HTC Vive. VR glass are available at an economical rate here

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented Reality is designed to be part of the user's reality instead of pulling the user into a different one. In AR, images are set up to overlap with the user's reality vision and merge with it. It is like adding a clear layer on top of reality and flashing digital images on it. Since the background is transparent, it would seem as if the digital image is part of reality, but the user is aware that this is not the case.

A person using an AR device could look at a major intersection and, based on the current information the device acquired, choose the fastest route to the airport by following the image flashing on the screen. Below is an interesting use case of AR by IKEA.

Mixed Reality

Mixed Reality is basically an effort to try and put together the best of VR and AR in that the technology aims to immerse the user in a pre-programmed world while still being anchored in the real world. Virtual images can be seen by the user but, unless it is obviously fake, it is harder to discern which is real and which is not simply by looking since it follows the rules of the real world. A user sees statue of liberty in front, and a popular host comes out sharing historical information about the statue of liberty. The user could then walk closer to the images and the objects would get closer. They could change their angle by sitting, jumping or running around, but the way the "objects" are perceived remain very real. Popular use case Vuforia Mixed Reality is as below;

The above descriptions are only a simple differentiation of the three technologies for education purpose only. The objective is not to endorse any product/service in specific. Due trademarks/servicemarks are extended herewith.

Conclusion

Trust this post gave you basic understanding of AR,VR and MR. These different flavors of xR are creating immersive experiences and use cases. I am excited to study and experience various applications of xR. If you have experienced any new application, or seen any interesting video - kindly share it in the comment section of this post. It would be my pleasure to learn more about the same and discuss.

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