Virtual Reality (VR) vs Augumented Reality (AR): Differences

There are major differences in both these technologies and a comprehensive discussion is needed to make optimum use. A concise introduction of both is therefore needed for clarity of concepts.

What is VR (Virtual Reality)?

Virtual Reality term comes from its parts "Virtual" and "Reality". Virtual in the meaning of its word as "not physically existing" and Reality as in real world. Virtual reality allows us to experience what is not there as not only a 3D visualization but with its sound effects, touch and ability of control. It provides an emulation of a non-real environment unlike traditional interfaces taking place inside an experience to immerse user with the ability to interact with the virtual environment by simulation of  visual, audible and touch senses.

What is AR (Augmented Reality)?

While VR completely immerses you in a computer generated virtual world, Augmented reality overlays the computer generated virtual object on the real world. Augmented Reality is generated on the device camera after determining the locations and positioning of the camera. AR technology renders the 3D images/objects on this camera input and provides an augmented world where both virtual and real worlds collide. AR surrounds you with a world that is more interactive and digitally manipulatable by the overlapping of virtual objects with the real world.

Difference between VR and AR.

The main and easiest distinction b/w VR and AR is the manipulation of sense of perception of our presence. VR totally immerses you in a virtual world environment while AR overlays 3D virtual world elements onto real world. To experience VR you will need to have an experience such as a VR box headsets which are viewed through lenses. The headset then uses various sensors for tracking user's head movement and adjusting the virtual environment so as to provide a real time experience by creating an illusion that the user is moving in a foreign environment.

VR sound more exciting, more immersive and manipulative but in reality it is more restrictive as where you can use it. It is difficult to use VR headset while moving or doing something since it shuts you off from the real world environment. While using AR has more freedom as it overlays on the real world so you remain in contact with the real world and can use it anywhere you want.