VR vs AR: Key Differences, Benefits, and Applications
Understanding what type of XR solution to choose comes down to recognizing their key differences, how each can benefit the technicians who use them, and which meets the objectives of your organization.
Both VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) technology can offer the benefit of simulations to support industries like engineering, healthcare, and construction. Corporate environments are beginning to adopt and integrate these solutions into how they educate, train, offer tech support, and more. However, there are some large differences to be considered when it comes to implementing these resources in line with your industry and organization’s objectives and goals.
Benefits and Limitations of AR and VR Technologies
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality devices offer immersive experiences that ultimately enhance how users interact with and experience either a virtual, simulated environment (VR) or computer-generated images in their devices overlaying a real environment (AR).
VR devices offer:
- Full immersion where your brain experiences and interacts with a 360° virtual environment
- Multiple use applications across a number of industries
- High quality and resolution images with lower bandwidth
Limitations include: The need for complex digital elements and fully immersive headwear (VR headsets that completely block out the real world) can create cost and accessibility issues. VR also requires extensive software development to integrate a fully virtual environment.
AR devices offer:
- Practical applications to integrate across diverse enterprises
- Accessibility with smartphones and other daily-use devices
- Minimized cost and time for simple support and integrations
Limitations include: AR headsets are currently expensive and have hardware limitations, experience design limitations can inhibit the user experience, and creating virtual interactions that seamlessly work with real-world environments and objects can be challenging and require large amounts of custom development.
AR and VR technologies are revolutionizing the way we work, and new, more practical and cost-saving solutions are being created all the time to address the challenges faced with implementations and to make them more accessible to today’s workforce.
Application of Evolving Assisted Reality Technologies
RealWear and other Assisted Reality devices (otherwise known as head mounted tablets or HMT’s) are revolutionizing the way that industries incorporate remote work. With rugged Android-based headsets integrating procedural service documentation and remote expert support,, organizations can increase productivity and decrease costs with practical-use, hands-free devices that can enhance your approach to:
- Tech Support
- Employee Training
- Professional Development
- Troubleshooting
- Quality Assurance
- Collaboration
Corporations who integrate and implement these through a diverse range of platforms like Microsoft Teams, Webex, Zoom, and other virtual remote assist technologies find a large reduction in training costs and time and an increase in overall performance.
Learn more about additional applications including Soft Skills Development, Hard Skills Training, Team Collaboration, Mental Wellness Support, and “In Person/Live” Events that can be customized and developed by the team at ConcannonXR for your unique company needs.
If you are ready to leverage VR or AR technology to assist your organization to meet its goals, contact us today to learn about Concannon XR’s development offerings, support, training, and customizable service solutions.
