AR vs. VR: Are virtual reality and augmented reality not almost the same?

(VR) and sometimes the two terms are incorrectly used as synonyms. There is also often a debate about which technology is better. The question of whether augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) is "better" misses the point, as the two technologies offer very different applications and experiences.

However, the two immersive technologies, which are also grouped together under the term Extended Reality (XR), differ quite significantly upon closer inspection.

AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) are technologies that create digital experiences. The Differences between Augmented reality and virtual reality lie in the way in which they provide these experiences.

Virtual Reality

With virtual reality, the user is completely immersed in a virtual world which can only be realized by a VR goggles or a similar device is experienced.

These worlds are often 3D animated worlds. VR enables the user to enter a immersivecomputer-generated environment that gives them the feeling of actually being physically in a different place. These 3D worlds offer a realistically designed digital environment that can be experienced using powerful computers and special hardware such as VR glasses, controllers or gloves. This feeling is called Immersion is the term used. The virtual world is often controlled by a controller or by the user's body movements. Simply put, it teleports us Virtual Reality (VR) virtually to another place and we no longer have any connection to our real surroundings.

The barrier to entry for virtual reality (VR) is generally higher than for augmented reality (AR) for several reasons:

1. Complex hardware requirementsTo create an immersive VR experience, headsets and or powerful computers are needed. Since the distribution of headsets in Germany is still very low, there are no clear distibution paths for VR content.

2. Space requirement: Virtual reality in many cases requires a dedicated space or at least a specific area where users can move around without disturbance or risk of injury.

3. Motion SicknessSome users experience symptoms such as nausea or dizziness when using VR technology. This phenomenon, known as Motion Sickness. How susceptible someone is to motion sickness varies greatly.

4. Cognitive load: Immersion in a completely virtual world can be overwhelming at first for users who are not used to such technologies. This differs from augmented reality, where digital information is superimposed on the physical world, often making it more intuitive to interpret.

Unlike virtual reality, AR often only requires a smartphone. This generally makes AR more accessible to the average user.

Augmented reality

AR supplements the real world with digital content that is made visible via AR glasses or a smartphone display. AR inserts digital elements such as images, text or animations into the user's field of vision and integrates them seamlessly into the real world. The user remains in the real world and can continue to see and experience their surroundings. AR technology therefore comes into its own best when there is a contextual link between the real world and the virtual objects. This would be the case, for example, when additional virtual information is added to an exhibit in a museum in the real world by means of a virtual overlay in AR. AR can be used with AR glasses such as the HoloLens 2tablets and even with a smartphone. AR technology is also becoming increasingly available in the browser of mobile devices, this technology is referred to as.

When to VR and AR depends on the specific requirements and objectives of the project. VR is useful for applications where a complete visualization is required. Immersion to another environment, e.g. for simulations, games or training. Application examples for VR. AR, on the other hand, is better suited for applications where digital information or objects are to be embedded in the real world, such as maintenance, repair, navigation, or marketing.

Augmented reality and virtual reality are growing together

Modern VR glasses like the Meta Quest 3 are increasingly managing to combine AR features with virtual reality, thus enabling mixed reality (MR). This is possible thanks to Passthrough mode and advanced room recognition. This enables you to see the real environment through the closed VR glasses using outward-facing cameras.

And what is mixed reality, anyway?

Although VR and AR are often mentioned in the same context, they serve different purposes. VR offers an escape from the real world by transporting the user into a completely new environment. AR, on the other hand, enriches the real world by supplementing it with helpful, informative or entertaining digital elements.