Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality: What they Are and Why they Are Ripe for Success

Movies such as “The Lawnmower” took a dystopian, futuristic approach to the ’90s, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality It has gained ground in fully functional areas such as training and surgery. And perhaps the most promising of these three modalities is mixed reality, which is being used for applications under construction and, more recently, for video conferencing. Microsoft’s efforts in the latter area could bring a Start Trek-like scene to life in corporate communications.

If you want an overview of the main differences, click the magnifying glass.

In this article, we will discuss in detail about

1. The difference between virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality
2. Mixed Reality Applied to Video Conferencing

What is the difference between virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality?

Before describing Microsoft’s new project and the possibilities of mixed reality, it’s important to clarify the differences between these technologies.Basically they provide Different levels of immersion and interactivity.

virtual reality

Virtual reality headsets provide absolute immersion without introducing elements of the user’s environment. This is a computer generated graphic or a real image. VR devices such as Oculus, Vive, and Index detect your movements (usually your head and hands) and translate them into your virtual environment. Although the main focus has been on video games, other applications are gradually opening up, especially in training.For example, in projects such as the La Almunia factory in Zaragoza, even airplane pilots and water treatment plant technicians , training in a controlled environment using a virtual reality helmet.

Virtual Reality Applications: video games, metaverse, training, creation

Augmented reality

Augmented reality can use many different types of devices, from glasses to smartphones. In this case, it’s essentially a non-interactive on-screen data overlay. The clearest example is the late Google Glass.

The origin of the term “augmented reality” dates back to 1990. Boeing engineers started thinking about virtual technology to assist operators in their work. However, the technology itself is much older. His first AR glasses were developed in 1968, and experiments were conducted in the 1980s to explore their potential, as you can see in this video.

Applications of Augmented Reality: Surgery, architecture, navigation systems, manufacturing.

mixed reality

Mixed reality uses 3D representations in the form of holograms to integrate virtual objects into their real environment. In this case, virtual objects offer varying levels of interactivity. The most popular device for this technology is Microsoft’s HoloLens glasses.

Mixed reality applications: Holoportation, training and construction

Mixed Reality Applied to Video Conferencing

Remote work and video conferencing are already established routines in the workplace.However, many software tools used for communication In this context, obsolete technologies such as webcams and headsets are used.

Fortunately, some companies are exploring new possibilities. One of the most interesting is Microsoft’s mesh projectThe proposal involves capturing an image of a person in 3D and projecting it into the real environment. HoloportationUsers need HoloLens glasses to see both the virtual meeting participants and various 3D objects.

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This project has been in development since 2016, using cloud servers and device independent (even virtual reality headsets can be used). Holographic representation Enable expressive 3D avatars for meeting participants’ faces.

Microsoft has worked with figures such as filmmaker James Cameron and Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté to mixed reality project occurs. Only time will tell if Mesh will actually be applied or follow the fate of initiatives such as Second Life.

In any case, the approach seems to be different Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality It is poised to show the technological evolution in the years to come. Projects like Apple’s long-awaited augmented reality glasses and the Metaverse concept attracting investment from Facebook, Epic, or nVidia show that it’s not a passing frenzy.

sauce: Forbes, Microsoft, https://www.lifewire.com/applications-of-augmented-reality-2495561