Augmented reality and virtual reality: what they are and how they are applied
22 November 2023
In recent times, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) have emerged as transformative forces, reshaping our perception of and interaction with the digital and physical environment.
In this article, we dive into the intriguing universe of AR and VR, exploring their fundamentals, applications and the impact they are having on various areas of our daily lives.
Augmented Reality is a technology that superimposes digital information, such as images, text or sound, on our perception of the real world. Unlike Virtual Reality, AR does not transport us to a completely virtual environment, but instead enriches our current experience through the integration of digital elements.
AR applications, such as filters in social networks or navigation applications with real-time information, demonstrate how this technology is becoming more and more organically integrated into our lives.
Virtual Reality, on the other hand, it immerses us completely in the virtual environments generated by computers. By using devices such as VR headsets, users can experience imaginary worlds or participate in simulated situations in an immersive way.
From entertainment applications, such as immersive video games, to more practical applications, such as training in simulated environments for professionals, VR is pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
At the heart of RA and VR are advanced technologies that enable these immersive experiences. Sensors, cameras and image processing algorithms are essential for tracking the environment and positioning digital objects accurately in the case of augmented reality.
In virtual reality, specialised headsets combine high-resolution displays with motion sensors to deliver an immersive experience that tricks our senses.
AR and VR have transcended the realm of entertainment and are making their mark in many aspects of our daily lives:
Education: VR learning platforms are revolutionising education, allowing students to explore faraway places or participate in science experiments from the comfort of their classrooms.
Health: In the medical field, VR is used to simulate surgical procedures, providing a safe practice environment for healthcare professionals.
Trade: AR has transformed the way we shop, allowing us to visualise products in our environment before we buy them, thanks to "virtual try-on" applications.
Tourism: AR applications guide tourists by providing real-time information on places of interest, local stories and useful facts.
Despite their positive impact, AR and VR are also facing challenges, from privacy issues to the possibility of addiction.
Overexposure to virtual environments raises questions about how to balance the digital world with the real world and how to protect our privacy in an increasingly interconnected environment.
The potential of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality is far from reaching its limit. As the technology evolves, the following are expected significant progress in device resolution, interactivity and adaptability to various areas of daily life.
From more advanced medical applications to more immersive virtual work environments, the future of AR and VR promises even more profound transformations.
In short, augmented reality and virtual reality are forging a path towards a world where the boundaries between the real and the digital are blurring. From improving the way we learn to changing the way we shop and work, these technologies are leaving an indelible mark on our society.
As we continue to explore the vast horizons of AR and VR, it is clear that we are on the threshold of a revolution that will transform our reality in ways we cannot even imagine.
Marcos Cabrera, student of Software Development Engineering in IMMUNE