Understanding Augmented Reality (AR) Basics

Augmented Reality (AR)

• AR is a technology that blends the digital world with the physical environment, overlaying digital information onto the real world.
• AR uses computer vision, mapping, and depth tracking to generate content for the user.
• AR cameras collect and process data to send the right content to the user, enhancing the physical environment in real-time.
• AR can be experienced with smartphones or special hardware.
• Applications of AR include:
  • Texting, embedding imagery and videos
  • Printing, advertising, and digital content
  • Interpretation apps and 3D tools for 3D real-time games

Virtual Reality (VR)

• VR is a fully immersive experience that allows users to undergo a real-world-feeling.
• VR attempts to regenerate computer images and videos to produce real-life visual experiences.
• VR systems use computer vision and advanced graphics to generate 3D images and video by adding depth and reconstructing scale and distances between static 2D images.
• VR headsets and controllers with sensors enable users to explore and control 3D environments.
• Applications of VR include:
  • Enhancement of fictional realities in gaming
  • Flight and battlefield simulation for military training
  • Training device for PTSD and sports training
  • Fear therapy through fictional or real-life scenes and scenarios
  • Medical training for graduating students and learning new skills in a safe environment

AR vs VR

• VR creates an immersive virtual environment, while AR augments a real-world scene.
• VR is 75% virtual, while AR is only 25% virtual.
• VR requires a headset device, while AR does not.
• VR users move in a completely fictional world, while AR users are in contact with the real world.
• VR replaces the real world with the artificial, while AR enhances real life with artificial images.
• VR is suitable for games and social networking, while AR is suitable for real-world applications.