Table of Contents[Hide][Show]
As technology continues to evolve, so do the ways in which we can interact with it.
Lately, a new category of technologies has emerged that allows us to blur the lines between what is real and what is not.
These technologies are collectively known as extended reality (XR).
This post will give you some examples of extended reality in use today. Whether it’s used for gaming, education, or work tasks, this technology has endless possibilities.
Stay tuned to find out more!
What is Extended Reality?
In the 1960s, the term extended reality was coined by Ivan Sutherland, a computer scientist and the father of computer graphics.
He described a future world in which we could interact with objects in the real world through a computer to create the illusion of a real world.
This was later realized by developing head-mounted displays (HMDs) in the 1970s.
Lastly, in the 1990s, the Oculus Rift and other VR headsets were created. These headsets provide a first-person perspective and can be used to simulate an environment.
In 2019, XR became a popular topic, and the definition of extended reality has evolved to include augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR). In this post, we will be focusing on the use of XR in gaming.
It’s an umbrella term that includes virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality. All of which are immersive digital experiences. It describes the technology that allows us to interact with the physical world in new ways.
In this sense, it is not a new technology, but rather a new way of thinking about how we interact with the physical world. We are already using some form of XR in our everyday lives.
What are the Different Types of Extended Reality?
1. Virtual Reality
This is a digital environment that replicates the real world. It can be created by a computer or by using a VR headset. The experience is created so that it looks like it is real.
This means that the user is physically present in the virtual world. The user can interact with the virtual world through controllers or the headset. The technology can be used for gaming, education, and many other purposes.
2. Augmented Reality
This is when digital objects are overlaid in the real world. This allows the user to see the real world the same way as they would in the physical world. In this sense, it combines virtual reality and augmented reality.
The user can interact with them in the same way they would in the physical world. This can be done by using a smartphone or a wearable device.
3. Mixed Reality
Extended reality is a combination of virtual reality and augmented reality. Have you ever noticed that you are looking at the real world through a headset that looks like a pair of glasses?
This is a form of mixed reality. In this sense, the virtual objects are created to appear as if they are real.
For example, imagine looking at a real-life video of a street sign. If you were to put on a VR headset, you would be able to see the sign in the virtual world. However, if you were to put on a headset that combines both VR and AR, you would be able to see the real world and see the virtual sign overlaid on top of it.
Some Real-Life Examples of Extended Reality
Here are some examples of how we are already using XR in our everyday lives.
HoloLens
Microsoft HoloLens is a headset that was developed in 2015. It is a type of mixed reality. It can project a virtual environment into the real world. The headset uses holograms to create the virtual world.
The user can interact with the holograms by touching them. It is being used by many companies, including NASA, Disney, and a number of universities.
Smartphone Apps
Many apps are already available for smartphones that allow you to create your own XR.
For example, if you have a smartphone and a VR headset, you can download apps that will allow you to experience XR. You can create your own virtual worlds.
Gaming
Gaming is one of the most popular uses of XR. This is because it allows us to immerse ourselves in a digital universe. Many games are being developed for smartphones and headsets.
For example, the Pokémon Go game allows users to go on a virtual hunt. The user can explore the world and see digital versions of Pokémon.
Business
XR is being used in several business sectors. This includes healthcare, retail, and education. For example, some apps allow the user to see a virtual tooth before it is extracted in dentistry.
The user can see how the tooth will look after being removed. This can help him decide whether to have the tooth extracted.
Another example is the retail sector. To illustrate, some apps allow you to try on clothes. Users can put on the clothes in the virtual world and see how they look thanks to these apps.
Benefits of Extended Reality
When you use XR, you will be able to see numerous benefits.
Interaction
When users can interact with the content, they are more likely to understand and remember it.
This is one of the key advantages of AR and VR over traditional forms of content such as videos or textbooks.
Immersive experience
Extended Reality can provide an immersive experience that can be extremely effective in training and education. It can also create a more engaging experience for customers or users.
Versatile
Extended Reality can be used in a variety of applications and industries.
Cost
XR is also a cost-effective technology. The cost of XR devices is relatively low.
This means that it is possible to use them for various purposes. The main cost is in the development of the virtual world.
Why Do We See an Increase in the Use Of XR?
The emergence of these technologies can be attributed to several factors. First, the rise of smartphones has made digital technology more accessible. Second, the cost of technology continues to decrease, which has opened the door to more affordable solutions.
The rise of smartphones has also played a part in the growth of XR. The use of smartphones is growing at a fast pace. In fact, it was predicted that by 2020, one in every four people on the planet would own a smartphone.
This has created a demand for applications that use these devices. The availability of affordable XR devices has also contributed to the growth of XR.
Challenges of Extended Reality
There are many challenges associated with XR. To demonstrate this, let us look at some of the challenges XR faces.
Privacy
One of the biggest challenges of XR is privacy. Some people are uncomfortable with using a headset or a smartphone. This can lead to them avoiding XR.
Some people are concerned about the way their data is being used. They are worried that the technology will track them. This is why some people prefer to stay in the real world.
Technical Issues
The main technical issues associated with XR are the battery life and the resolution. There are not many XR devices that can last a long time. This means that the user will need to charge the device regularly.
Virtual Sickness
Another challenge is that of virtual sickness. Some people are worried about the potential side effects of XR. They are worried that they may experience symptoms such as nausea or dizziness. The use of headsets can also lead to headaches and eye strain.
My Thoughts
The most exciting aspect of XR is the ability to use it in a wide range of ways. Positively, it allows people to interact with the virtual world in a more natural way.
This makes it a great tool for the creation of applications. The most important thing is to understand how XR can be used constructively.
Leave a Reply