AR (Augmented Reality)
Augmented Reality vs Virtual Reality: 4 Point Comparison
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Hearing the terms augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) can bring excitement of the futuristic possibilities and use cases these technologies can have for many. However, most tend to either merge or confuse the two.
This is because many individuals who wish to harness their potential are only aware of VR. AR is a term that they might hear for the first time. Therefore, it is important to understand the differences between them for appropriate applications.
While both are immersive technologies, they serve different purposes with varying applications.
Read about the detailed comparison between AR and VR highlighted in 4 points.
Difference in Definitions
Before understanding the critical differences that separate the two technologies, it is important to understand the basic difference in definition.
- Definition of AR: Digital information such as images and sounds can be overlapped onto the 3D world. This facilitates real life interactions with virtual elements for users.
- Definition of VR: Users are completely immersed in the digital environment and separated (at least visually) from the real world.
Difference in Level of Immersions
Each technology has its own level of immersion for the user.
- Level of Immersion of AR: The primary method of immersion is by using digital elements to enhance the physical world. So, it immerses the players to a limited extent where they are aware of their physical surroundings.
- Level of Immersion of VR: VR creates a digital environment meant to replace the real world. So, in terms of vision, it is fully immersive. Users are unaware of physical surroundings.
Difference in Equipment Used
The equipment used is what makes these immersive technologies become a reality and is used by users to “enter” into the specific virtual environment.
- Equipment Used in AR: Most of the time, any handheld device like a smartphone, that has a suitable camera and display resolution is used to display virtual content. However, there are some AR glasses like Google Glass which are yet to be publicly adopted.
- Equipment Used in VR: VR requires the use of headsets that are specialized to block out the real world. These generally have in-built sensors and controls to fully immerse all five senses.
Difference in R&D
R&D plays a critical role in the success of technology. But for businesses, it is about the cost.
- Development Cost of AR: Existing devices such as mobile phones and tablets are used to enable AR. This makes it more cost-effective. Additionally, the applications are limited to basic showcasing, so hardware and software development is easier.
- Development Cost of VR: VR requires software with high computing power and specialized hardware to run smoothly. This significantly increases costs.
