Extended Reality is an umbrella term that encapsulates various immersive technologies that have the ability to merge the physical world we live in with computer-created virtual worlds. This means that top UX design firms combine various components of computer-altered reality including but not limited to Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) to develop XR.
Also referred to as XR, the X in Extended Reality is a variable that can stand for any letter of the alphabet since the components of XR are not clearly established. It includes any technology that combines real and virtual environments, including future realities that we still have not developed yet.
In order to fully understand what Extended Reality is and what it can do, you need to understand the three main components, which are Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR). We explain these below:
Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented Reality or AR is when computer-generated content is overlaid on the real world we live in, thus enhancing reality using digital content like text, images, as well as animation. This experience can be accessed using either AR glasses or using smartphones, tablets, etc. The key feature of AR is that it is not completely immersive as the augment content does not merge with physical reality, which means that users can still be aware of what is going on around them and interact with reality.
Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual Reality or VR is a technology that fully immerses users in a simulated digital environment. For this, A special VR headset or a head-mount display is required so that the user can have a 360-degree view of the virtual world created.
Mixed Reality (MR)
Mixed Reality or MR has elements of both VR and AR. While digital content is overlaid on the real world like in AR, this overlaid content is immersive and interactive, as is the case in VR. So, digital and real worlds are blended in real time.
Future Scope of Extended Reality
Recent research has revealed that more than a whopping 60 percent of the respondents believe that Extended Reality will become mainstream in the just the next five years. This shows just how rapidly this technology is being developed, and how willingly the public is ready to adopt it once it is ready and available in the market.
Indeed, Extended Reality has plenty of uses and could be employed in all kinds of fields such as retail, real estate, marketing, training, entertainment, and more. It can also be used by the best UI UX design services. The technology has the potential to completely change the way we live our everyday lives, as it will alter our very perception of reality.
