Surely most of us have heard about the term AR/VR and experienced at least once their applications/ products. However, the definition of this technology is still a blur when it is assumed in one phrase "Virtual Reality Technology". So what are the differences between these two technologies, and what are their practices in reality?
Let’s Marvy Co explore what is AR/VR technology and the differences between them!
1. AR - Augmented Reality:
Augmented Reality (AR) is an innovation of technology when creating a connection between virtual contents and reality. In other words, this technology allows users to see their surroundings normally and at the same time, virtual elements appear like an overlay over the actual scene. Therefore, users can easily interact with these features.
AR Technology includes several types of applications suitable for each user’s purpose. Such as AR Face Filter, AR Image Target, AR Product Viewer,AR Geo Location,... Hence, well-known businesses, brands have chosen AR technology not only to upgrade their services/goods‘ quality but also to support communication activities to effectively attract their customers.
For instance, IKEA with their Place app using AR technology has allowed their customer to preview furniture products and virtually place the model in their own space. Since then, customers can make their purchase decision whether to buy or not.
AR Product Viewer - Place app by IKEA
Moreover, the application of AR technology also shows via filters on social platforms like Facebook, Instagram. For example, The AR Face Filter for Tet 2021 from Merries, Kylie Cosmetics, Dior,... By using a smartphone and simple actions like touch, nod, users can apply the virtual contents including makeup, stickers, 3D images to the actual scene. Additionally, AR Technology can be applied to games like Pokemon Go, Hado the Hunter,... which is engaging and interesting for players.
Hado the Hunter - AR Game shooting animals to collect gold coins
2. VR - Virtual Reality:
Virtual Reality (VR) is a form of simulating various spaces, scenarios that can be similar or completely different from reality. The virtual elements are developed by computer and can be seen, experienced through a specific device - a VR headset. By that, VR technology can help users travel to a new zone separate from the present. At the same time, their vision and hearing will be stimulated through VR's eye-catching graphics and responsive capabilities.
VR headset experience
Thereby, users will be immersed in the virtual world and have the most authentic experience. All the scenes that seem to just appear on the computer screen such as spaceships, galaxies, or even dream travel places, suddenly appear right in front of their eyes and allow themselves to interact with them as real.
Besides entertainment purposes, VR can also be applied by businesses to leverage customers’ experience on their product. For example, Nissan has adopted VR technology into their test drive service to give customers a chance to feel the features of the cars before deciding to buy.
VR technology in Nissan’s test drive service
3. The difference between AR and VR
The difference between AR and VR
AR | VR | |
Purpose | Bringing virtual content to the real world which enhance user experience | Bringing users to a completely new space and giving them new experiences |
Users’ experience | Using the camera of a mobile device, users can see both virtual content and their rea surroundings at the same time | Separate users from real space to experience 100% virtual world |
Devices | All types of smartphone | - Smartphone and headset - VR headset |
Cost | Average | High |
Applications | 3D photo collage, interactive games, ... | Entertainment products such as movies, video games, ... |
As can be seen, AR and VR have their different outstanding advantages with different purposes to support the user's needs. However, AR technology seems to be more superior and be commonly used. Because users can interact with AR technology by using mobile devices without install, connect to other devices.
Meanwhile, VR technology requires a specific headset to experience and the cost for this device is quite high, not everyone can purchase one. Furthermore, this headset needs time for the user to get used to it, otherwise, it may cause discomfort.
Overall, AR and VR are two new technologies that can enhance user experience through virtual and real factors. For VR, users will be completely immersed in their world with the VR headset. As for AR, the harmonious combination between real and virtual will make users both have a new experience but still be familiar with the actual surrounding space.
