Virtual Reality vs Augmented Reality

Virtual Reality and augmented reality have both been buzz words since the last few months of 2017. Both hold tremendous potential for growth in almost all fields. They’re powerful tools that can help us experience reality in a manner that can dramatically shift our perception of the world. However, despite the hype, many people cannot differentiate between virtual reality and augmented reality. How are virtual reality and augmented reality different from each other? Let’s dive right into it. What is Virtual Reality? Virtual reality allows you to escape the real world by blocking out everything in your surroundings and creating a simulation of a new reality. By putting on the VR goggles, the user experiences the simulated reality first hand. Virtual reality can be experienced by using Oculus Rift, Google Cardboard or Samsung Gear VR. By putting on your VR gear, you can instantly get transported into the era of dinosaurs or climb on top of mountains. Once you put your gear on, your immediate vision is blocked out. You will fully and completely get immersed into a new stimulated reality be it nature or fantasy. A coding language known as Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML) is used to program images and graphics to allow the users to experience stimulated reality. VR technology stimulates the visual and auditory sensors of the users and it allows them to completely become absorbed in their new stimulating surroundings. Different users have reported different experiences. Most people are completely blown by the experience. However, there are some, who have had problems such as nausea when they’ve tried to use Gear VR. This is mainly because our brains are quite smart and they may recognize discrepancies between our motions and the movement of the world around us. When that happens, our brain questions the reality of the world around us and causes us to feel nauseous. However, VR is still relatively new and it is continuously evolving. Undoubtedly, this problem won’t last for long as new technology emerges. Image Source What is Augmented Reality? Augmented reality enhances the current reality by adding computer-generated elements into it. It “augments” the reality and makes it more meaningful for the users by allowing real-time interaction. Augmented reality is often used on mobile phones via applications that have been programmed to process AR. These apps blend digital elements into the real world to provide more clarity. Many tech giants such as Facebook and Samsung have expressed interest in AR. We will surely be seeing lots of new developments in this field. Difference between virtual reality and augmented reality. Virtual reality and augmented reality differ in terms of the “presence” of the user. In virtual reality, the user is transposed into a virtual world and disconnects with the world around him. Whereas augmented reality just alters the current reality for the user. It helps them add elements into their existing reality without altering their presence in any way. Many people use VR and AR synonymously, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. To understand this concept consider the analogy of a jungle. By using VR, you are a part of the jungle as you explore all its secrets and navigate across the maze. In contrast, in AR you’re like an outside viewer seeing what happens in the jungle. You can even wear AR glasses, and see all the wild animals come to life in your own backyard. Applications of Virtual Reality Virtual reality is a powerful tool. While many people are aware of the exhilarating experience VR provides in gaming, not many know the potential VR holds in other...
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