“A recent report from Grand View Research forecasts that the global augmented reality (AR) market size is set to reach USD 206.2 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33.3%.”

“Global Market Insights Inc. estimates that the global virtual reality (VR) market size is expected to reach USD 71.2 billion by 2026, expanding at a CAGR of 23.6% over the forecast period of 2021 to 2026.”

“Research and Markets predict that the global mixed reality (MR) market will reach USD 76.2 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 28.3% between 2021 and 2026.”

Technology is evolving. Every single day we are greeted by news of a new innovation or a new technology taking over the world like a storm. Technologies revolving around ‘realities’ have been something that has stuck around us for a lot of time and each day they are bringing something new to the table. 

Augmented reality, virtual reality, and now a mixed reality, all may sound exactly the same. If you are not a tech-savvy person, differentiating them may seem even impossible. 

Well, if you are still up in the air on telling apart these technologies then let us help you…. 

What is ‘Reality’?

Have you ever had a disagreement with someone over the colour of the ocean? They may have seen the ocean as blue, while you saw it as green. This is because we all have our own ways of perceiving and interpreting the world around us. 

It all depends on how we experience things, we see shapes, our genetics, and how we look at the world. People often struggle to make sense of why virtual reality can feel so real, even when they know it's not actually real.  

How often have you cried watching a movie when you know it's not real? Just like that when you wear a VR headset you know it's not real however you'll be fully present in that digital environment.  

And this is the secret behind all these technologies, they make it feel real. 

Extended Reality ( XR )

Extended reality (XR) is an umbrella term used to define all immersive technologies, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR). 

XR is a way of blending the physical and digital worlds together, allowing users to interact with digital content in a physical space. By allowing users to interact with digital content in a physical space, XR provides a more immersive experience than traditional media platforms. 

It also allows users to explore and engage with digital content in ways that can be both educational and entertaining. As XR continues to shape the way we interact with the world, the possibilities it is opening up are endless. 

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented Reality is a technology that overlays digital content onto the physical world. It combines computer-generated images, sound, and other sensory input to create an immersive and interactive experience. This technology can be used in a variety of applications, including education, gaming, entertainment, and navigation.

AR is becoming increasingly popular as an emerging technology due to its ability to create a more engaging and immersive experience for users. It can also be used to enhance existing physical objects and spaces, allowing users to virtually explore and interact with their environment. 

By leveraging the power of augmented reality, users are able to experience a richer, more meaningful experience of the world around them. With the potential to revolutionize how we interact with the world, AR is quickly becoming an essential part of our everyday lives.

An excellent example of AR has to be the game “Pokemon Go” and the filters we see on Snapchat:-

Virtual Reality ( VR )

Virtual Reality (VR) is a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way by a person using special electronic equipment, such as a helmet with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors. The technology immerses the user in a virtual world, allowing them to interact with objects, explore virtual environments and experience a range of sensations.

VR is widely used for gaming, education, communication, and even medical applications. By creating a fully immersive environment, VR can be used to simulate almost any environment imaginable. 

With advancements in technology, the possibilities of what can be accomplished with VR are endless. From exploring distant galaxies to experiencing a live concert, virtual reality has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience the world.

Here is an example of VR:-

Mixed Reality ( MR )

Mixed Reality (MR) is an innovative technology that combines virtual elements and data with the real world, creating a unique reality that brings together aspects from both. It is an engaging experience that integrates physical and digital components to form a mixed environment. 

The scope of Mixed Reality runs from basic augmented reality (AR) where digital details are superimposed on the physical world, to totally immersive virtual reality (VR) encounters.

MR involves a variety of technologies and experiences that join the physical and digital realms, allowing users to connect with both in a more immersive fashion. 

Here is how real Mixed Reality can be:-

The Ending Line

AR, VR, and MR are all technologies that can have a huge impact on many aspects of life. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages and can be used for a variety of applications. 

While AR and VR are more popular and well-known, MR is still in its infancy and has a lot of potential for the future. Ultimately, the choice between the three technologies depends on the application and the desired outcome.