Immersive technologies, also known as extended reality (XR), refer to technologies that create highly interactive and realistic virtual experiences by blending the physical and digital worlds. They aim to enhance the user’s perception and engagement by immersing them in a simulated environment.
The three primary forms of immersive technologies are:
- Virtual Reality (VR): VR involves the use of a headset or goggles that completely immerse the user in a simulated digital environment. By blocking out the real world, VR creates a sense of presence, allowing users to interact with and explore computer-generated surroundings.
- Augmented Reality (AR): AR overlays digital content onto the real world, enhancing the user’s perception of reality. AR is typically experienced through devices like smartphones, tablets, or smart glasses, which overlay virtual objects, information, or visuals onto the user’s view of the physical environment.
- Mixed Reality (MR): MR combines elements of both VR and AR. It allows users to interact with and manipulate both digital and physical objects in real-time. MR systems merge virtual content with the user’s physical environment, enabling realistic interactions and experiences.
These immersive technologies have applications across various industries, including entertainment, gaming, education, healthcare, architecture, training, and more. They offer opportunities for realistic simulations, virtual training environments, interactive storytelling, data visualization, and innovative ways of experiencing digital content.
If you have a Digital Transformation Plan and are focusing on one of the technologies above you may be eligible for DTFF funding.