By now, you are likely familiar with the acronyms AR, VR, and perhaps even XR, all encompassing various forms of computer-enhanced reality.
The integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) has been a concept dating back to the early 90s, giving rise to a cohesive encounter that unites the physical world with computerized imagery.
The influence of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) has already been felt in diverse fields ranging from medicine, education and entertainment to research, industry, and human resources. Mixed Reality (MR) is poised to continue the impact and bring novel and thrilling prospects to elevate and enhance reality. So, what exactly is MR and what does it mean for the future?
What is Mixed Reality in Simple Terms?
Mixed Reality (MR) represents a technological methodology that brings together Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), along with the Internet of Things (IoT), to establish a novel realm where physical and digital components, as well as their relevant data, can exist and interact. This concept was originally introduced by Deloitte.
Mixed Reality (MR) is frequently regarded as a progression of Augmented Reality (AR). Nevertheless, MR presents users with an array of advantages that go beyond those offered by both Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).
Mixed Reality (MR) essentially generates a fresh space, bringing together physical and virtual elements that can coexist and interact with each other. Utilizing an MR headset, users can encounter the lifelike 3D graphics and holograms of these virtual items in a fully immersive manner.
The possible applications of augmented and virtual reality are immense, and this technology presents novel methods to interact with digital environments. With the use of mobile devices, such as smartphones, individuals can bring their creativity to life and engage themselves in an immersive and realistic space. Furthermore, people can participate and engage with others within this mixed reality environment, featuring authentic visuals, audio effects, and location-specific characteristics.
When is it Triggered?
Augmented Reality (AR) is an ever-evolving and elaborate concept gaining momentum and swiftly progressing. Sophisticated technologies, including trackers, sensors, computer vision, controllers, and more, are deployed to facilitate a seamless transition between physical and virtual domains. AR functions as a point on the spectrum of Virtual Reality (VR).
The hardware has the potential to track user behavior and provide instantaneous feedback to the system, presenting an opportunity to create an environment where people can engage with the available objects, resulting in a supplementary layer of reality.
The Potential of Hybrid Reality Systems
It is evident how MR could modify various aspects of our lives, spanning from work to leisure. Its potential extends to the transformation of our social patterns as well.
5G
The introduction of 5G provides the potential to augment the influence of Mixed Reality (MR). This new network standard has exceeded all expectations, improving speed and latency, resulting in reduced wait times to access MR solutions and more time to be completely engrossed in the virtual realm.
Immersiveness Expanded
With the progression of holographic and other Mixed Reality (MR) devices, users can achieve a more lifelike and plausible environment, resulting in colossal potential for total immersion.
Implications for Related Disciplines
The application of Mixed Reality (MR) is bringing about a transformation in multiple professional domains such as engineering, marketing, sales, and architecture. By providing simulated yet authentic experiences, MR can sufficiently train employees for complex situations, resultantly trimming costs, bolstering security, and providing advantage to organizations at large. The succeeding section outlines instances of MR usage in several industries.
Manufacturing
With the assistance of Mixed Reality (MR) technologies such as headsets, employees can be trained on the usage of complex machinery and tools. They can gain essential instructions for tool usage and acquire training before handling them. Additionally, they can acclimatize themselves with the factory setting and operations in a simulated environment.
Real Estate
Imagine a future where potential buyers can witness the final outcome of a property’s construction even before it is built. By utilizing Magnetic Resonance (MR) headsets, prospective buyers can ‘see’ the completed design and features of a home before the purchase. MR technology facilitates the digital reconstruction of the entire property, superimposing virtual components on top of the existing physical ones.
Retail
By making use of Augmented Reality (AR), retailers have provided customers with the chance to try on clothes, shoes, and glasses virtually from their homes. Moreover, with the aid of Mixed Reality technology, individuals can interact with products that they are considering before making a purchase, in a three-dimensional environment.
Human Resources
For some time now, Human Resources (HR) has been utilizing technology for screening applicants and performing evaluations on employee performance. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have turned out to be essential tools for evaluating applications and choosing appropriate candidates. Nevertheless, it is still a challenging task to forecast how well applicants will work together with fellow employees in the workplace.
With MR implementation, HR and recruitment departments can more precisely evaluate a prospective candidate’s suitability for their organisation concerning culture, work environment, and workforce.
Healthcare
The medical arena provides an excellent opportunity for embracing Mixed Reality (MR). Holographic technology has proved to be advantageous in surgical procedures. It offers surgeons an improved visualization of the operating theatre, thus allowing them to practice high-risk surgical procedures in a safe environment, enhancing their confidence during the actual surgery.
Potential Future Applications of MR
Undoubtedly, Mixed Reality (MR) is destined to become commonplace in the near future. We are already witnessing the far-reaching implications of blending fantasy and reality. Augmented reality is soon to come, which may have a profound impact on our learning, work, and lifestyle in the future. To conclude, MR is here to stay and possesses enormous potential.
