The Distinct Characteristics of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Numerous augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications have made their debut in 2016.  Many tech authorities predict their undeniable rise next year as many industry giants race to develop their versions of these platforms. Experts also believe that AR and VR will impact not just the gaming industry but also the Internet landscape as a whole.

SEO companies and other optimization organizations might soon need to update their online practices according to the latest developments in AR and VR. Their potential as mass communication devices may secure their spot as an SEO services staple in the near future.

However, despite their escalating popularity as gaming instruments and application channels, many are still unaware of the various distinctions of these two channels. To fully understand their differences, let us find out the characteristics of AR and VR.

Augmented Reality

The year 2016’s Pokemon Go mobile game, which sparked a worldwide craze, utilized AR. The application integrated virtual pocket monsters into the real world and allowed users to interact them through their gadgets.

AR is a technological advancement that allows developers to apply computer-generated enhancements over an existing reality, blending the two planes in a distinct yet complementary way. Pokemon Go marked the AR’s first step into mainstream applications.

Before the game’s monumental launch last year, AR has already been used in various media presentations. Most commonly applied to telecasted sports programs; it is also an established instrument in movies and online design.

Virtual Reality

VR technology is characterized by the artificial recreation of a situation or reality. Everything is computer-generated. Typically experienced via a headset, VR programs are developed to stimulate the user’s visual and auditory senses.

At the moment, the gaming industry is its most prominent developer. The number of VR games reached an all-time high in 2016 as media giants churned out VR games almost at a monthly basis. Other industries also utilize the technology’s enhanced simulation function as real-life emulators. Nowadays, training institutions evaluate their students first via simulations before introducing them to the real deal.

The Future of Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Though the nature of AR and VR applications nowadays are mostly recreational and informational, other industries are eyeing their potential for scientific and medical purposes. Some experts, for instance, believe that they would be excellent post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD treatment instruments.

AR and VR also have a lot of untapped potentials when it comes to online application. Although some companies have included the former in their site designs, imagine the impact of its widespread use. The successful integration of these technologies online, whether as a site-embedded function or as a web design instrument, can significantly change the Internet landscape. In the future, SEO companies may need to include AR and VR optimization in their repertoire. For instance, SEO services can include the development of these technologies to further online influence and brand exposure.

AR and VR ultimately share the same goal. They, however, differ in how they enrich their user’s experience—the former by layering computer-generated enhancements into a reality and the latter by creating an entirely artificial simulation of a situation. Following the examples of gaming empires, other industries are slowly integrating them into their ranks to serve specific purposes. Given all these points, it is safe to anticipate more AR and VR developments in the coming years.