AR vs VR

In technology, there are so many different terms, but what do they all actually mean? Consider AR and VR, for example. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are both technologies that influence our perception of reality, but they do so in different ways and have different applications. So, what exactly are the differences, and what are they best used for?

Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented Reality (AR) works in the real world. To explain it simply, let's use Pokémon GO as an example. Remember this game? It's a game where you walk around the real world using the app on your phone, which is displayed through your phone's camera. You see the real world on your screen, but the Pokémon that suddenly appear and can be caught are digital elements added to the real world. This is AR. Augmented Reality adds digital elements to your existing environment, allowing the real world to remain visible while being supplemented with computer-generated images, sounds, or other data.

Another good example are the face filters on Snapchat, instagram and tiktok. That you can use a face filter is not that new, but maybe you have seen how detailed they have become. Even entrepreneurs have made it their business. For an example you can look at the makeup artist Ines Alpha, who designs colorful and unique looks to decorate your face and she creates that in the form of a face filter.

Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual Reality (VR) takes things a step further than AR. This technology completely replaces the real world with a simulated digital environment. An example of this is the virtual world DESA, where parts of Rotterdam are recreated in 3D. This technology offers the freedom to present new things in a fully virtual world. As a user, you can immerse yourself and live as an avatar in a digital world that can resemble the real world but is completely separate from it. This creates a fully immersive experience, made possible by VR headsets like the Oculus Rift or PlayStation VR.

But as entrepreneurs, artists and so on, you can also present your work or products in this virtual reality. This way art or products can be presented in unlimited ways. An example of an artist is Abner Preis. An innovative artist leveraging VR to create immersive, boundary-pushing artworks. His pieces redefine traditional art presentation by inviting audiences into interactive digital realms, showcasing the transformative power of VR in visual storytelling and engagement. For example, one of his works, "Eden's Adventures" is an imaginative VR experience where participants explore fantastical landscapes and encounter mystical creatures in an interactive journey. View more here!

The Differences and Usability
AR allows users to interact with both digital elements and the physical world around them. It is often used for navigation, interactive marketing, maintenance, repair, and education. The goal is to enhance the real world with additional information and interactive elements. For example, you can scan an element with your phone to see more information, view an animation, or create an extra dimension and experience.

In VR, users can interact with a fully digital environment, often using special controllers. VR is frequently used for gaming, simulations, virtual tours, training, and education. This involves building worlds where you can play, learn, train, and earn money. The goal is to fully immerse users in a virtual, second reality.

Written by Julot Hobbensiefken