VR vs. AR
Before we get started, I would like to clarify the difference between virtual reality and augmented reality. As theses two visual experiences are similar, but not the same. Merriam-Webster defines virtual reality as an artificial environment which is experienced through sensory stimuli (such as sights and sounds) provided by a computer and in which one’s actions partially determine what happens in the environment. Whereas augmented reality, also defined by Merriam-Webster, is defined as an enhanced version of reality created by the use of technology to overlay digital information on an image of something being viewed through a device (such as a smartphone camera).
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Virtual & Augmented Reality Expanding
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are becoming something we are beginning to see grow immensely. We see VR Cafes and arcades, but the two realities are even being incorporated into everyday life. The most popular VR products are the Oculus Rift, Sony PlayStation VR and HTC Vive (Though, this also depends on what gaming system you are using. For example, PC gamers, PlayStation 4 users, etc.) These examples are of headsets which are what allows users to experience and interact with a simulated environment. Some options can be used with merely your phone or just a standalone headset that includes the goggles.
Not just games
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But this is just the beginning of it. Forbes article, “Five Ways Virtual Reality Will Change The World” explains five crucial ways in which the world is going to evolve because of VR. These five ways include: increasing the ease of conceptualization, experiential marketing will remove fearful barriers of entry into commerce, decreasing complexities of learning new skills, enhancing remote-control capabilities for any application, and lastly easily replicating and mapping foreign environments. Virtual reality is not only going to change the world in the way that we can now fully immerse into a surreal experience, but also change industries such as healthcare to education to entertainment. This is the beginning of an evolution, as virtual reality is undoubtedly already changing the world.
Augmented Reality to Entertainment
Augmented reality has recently expanded itself into the entertainment realm by Will.i.am. Who is not only a member of the Black Eyed Peas but is also a Grammy Award-winning musician, headphones entrepreneur, and a judge on “The Voice.” A graphic novel called “Masters of the Sum” was behind the beginning of the various projects of music, short film, long form, graphic novel, AR, VR.
Though multiple projects are being worked on the augmented reality will be seen in the Black Eyed Peas tour, Sun European tour. This element is used in the finale of the show when the audience members will can take their phones out and watch the show through an application which will bring elements to life on stage that can only be seen through the screen.
According to CNN’s article, “Enter a new dimension: Will.i.am’s augmented reality revolution” Will.i.am is said to describe this experience “It’s like Pokémon Go on steroids.”
The Market
If you’re still not convinced that AR and VR are quickly influencing and changing our world, then maybe this statistic will persuade you a little more. The Global augmented, and virtual reality market is expected to reach $94.4 billion by the year 2023, which is only four years away, according to PR Newswire. As these altering realities are not just restricted to one device but available from your smartphone or tablet making it extremely accessible and easy to use.
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