Demystifying AR and VR technology: making the most out of the tech we have

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are transformative technologies that have revolutionised the way we interact with digital content and environments. With digitalisation advancing at a pace unseen before, AR and VR are gaining more traction too. Yet, a significant proportion of the public still fails to understand the impact of these technologies that can be felt in daily interactions and social and work life.

AR vs VR: noting down the basics

AR connects digital information to the real world, improving our perception and interaction with our surroundings. In contrast, VR immerses users in completely virtual environments, creating immersive experiences that can simulate real or imagined worlds. These technologies have drawn significant attention in various industries, offering unique applications and promising career opportunities for digital enthusiasts.

Career Applications and Opportunities in AR/VR

AR and VR technologies have a wide range of applications, and are fast transforming sectors such as gaming, education, healthcare, retail, and architecture. In games, VR provides players with immersive experiences that take them to the heart of the digital worlds, offering unparalleled engagement and interaction. Games like Beat Saber and Half-Life: Alyx are key examples of VR’s potential to create captivating gaming experiences. Meanwhile, AR has revolutionised games with applications such as Pokémon GO, which blend digital characters with real-world environments. In education, AR and VR offer innovative ways to engage students and improve learning. VR can transport students to historical sites, inside the human body, or to distant planets, making learning interactive and impactful.

AR, on the other hand, can bring textbooks to life by ending digital information, 3D models, and animations on physical pages, and providing an enriched learning experience. The healthcare industry also benefits significantly from AR and VR technologies. VR simulations are used for surgical training, allowing surgeons to practice procedures in a risk-free virtual environment. This training can improve the patient’s surgical skills and results. AR assists surgeons during current procedures by finishing critical information, such as the patient’s genitals and 3D anatomy visualizations, directly onto their field of view, improving accuracy and efficiency. In retail, AR enhances the shopping experience by allowing customers to speed up products in their own space before making a purchase. Applications such as IKEA Place allow users to put furniture practically in their homes to see how it fits and looks.

VR, on the other hand, can create immersive virtual shops where customers can browse and shop from the comfort of their homes. Architecture and real estate are also transformed by AR and VR. Architects use VR to walk clients through virtual building models, providing a sense of scale and space before construction starts. AR can end up design elements on physical spaces, helping architects and clients make informed design and modification decisions. Career opportunities in AR and VR are expanding rapidly, reflecting the growing demand for skilled professionals in this growing field. Roles include AR/VR developers, designers, content creators, and specialists in space computing. These professionals work on creating and optimising immersive experiences, ensuring that AR and VR applications are both functional and demanding.

Skills and Tools Required for the Development of AR/VR Content

The development of AR and VR content requires a combination of technical skills and creativity. Proficiency in programming languages such as C#, C++, or UnityScript is essential for the development of VR applications. Familiarity with frameworks such as Unity or Unreal Engine is crucial for content creation, as these platforms provide the necessary tools to build and optimise AR and VR experiences. Designers need skills in 3D modelling, animation and spatial design to create realistic and immersive environments. Understanding the UX/UI principles is also important to ensure that user interfaces within these virtual worlds are intuitive and user-friendly.

Imagining a future that’s bright

In summary, AR and VR technologies offer exciting prospects for innovation in a variety of industries, from improving consumer experiences to a training and simulation revolution. As these technologies continue to evolve, acquiring the necessary skills and tools will be crucial for professionals aiming to thrive in the dynamic and expanding AR/VR landscape. The future holds immense potential for AR and VR, which promises to further integrate the digital and physical worlds and transform how we live, work and play.