Extended Reality (XR): XR is a term that encompasses various immersive technologies that blend the physical and virtual worlds, providing users with interactive and immersive experiences. XR is often used as an umbrella term to describe a spectrum of realities that includes Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR).
Augmented Reality (AR): AR overlays digital information, such as images, videos, or 3D objects, onto the real world. AR is typically experienced through smartphone or tablet screens, smart glasses, or heads-up displays. Popular examples include Pokémon GO and Snapchat filters. An example of this type of experience can be found below by touching on it’s image.
Virtual Reality (VR): VR creates a fully immersive, computer-generated environment that completely replaces the real world. Users typically wear a headset that covers their field of view and may use hand controllers or other input devices to interact with the virtual environment. VR is commonly used in gaming, simulations, training, and entertainment.
Mixed Reality (MR): MR is a continuum between the real world and the virtual world, where digital and physical elements coexist and interact in real-time. MR devices, like Microsoft HoloLens, allow users to see and interact with digital objects while still being aware of their physical surroundings. MR is often used in fields like architecture, industrial design, and remote assistance.