Augmented-Reality (AR) one of the latest technologies, can be defined as a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user’s view of the real world, thus providing a composite view. In simple terms, augmented reality is the combination of digital objects and the real world. The Technology combines the computer-based objects with the real world and delivers a unified but enhanced view of the world.

Virtual reality (VR) on the other hand does not deal with the real world. It deals with the virtual world. Once a person wears a VR device, it’ll make the person feel as if they have physically moved elsewhere. Virtual reality is a computer-generated environment for someone to interact with and be immersed in.

Given the definitions, explained below are a few major points that differenciates the two technologies from each other.

Immersion

The main difference between the two technologies is the immersion they provide. Virtual Reality causes a completely computer-generated world, where everything the user sees is an artificial recreation. Once the user enters the virtual world he loses contact with the real world.

On the other hand, Augmented Reality adds digital information to the real world. The person using AR will still be apart of the real world. This allows the user to interact with the “augmented” objects while being in contact with the real world.

Devices

An aspect that is common to both of the technology is that when experiencing the technology a person should use specific devices and equipment. But the difference is that both technologies have separate devices. They don’t use common devices or equipment, the devices they use to deliver innovative experiences are different from each other.

VR uses headsets that immerse the user’s vision and hearing into the virtual world.

AR is provided from a wider variety of devices such as, AR headsets, laptops, tablets, smartphones etc.

Education Technology

Both technologies can be applied for different industries, but a common industry to both technologies is education. Both technologies offer the chance to interrupt traditional methods, but their applications as educational technology solutions are different.

VR can be helpful when directing students into historical worlds. For instance, making use of VR for theoretical lessons.

VR can be helpful when directing students into historical worlds. For instance, making use of VR for theoretical lessons

However AR has the ability to interact with the “augmented” world. Therefore it can be helpful in providing students with practical lessons.

Thus the difference between the two most modern technologies. Some might still feel, they are the same, but they aren’t. The simplest detail to differentiate the two are that AR keeps the user in contact with the real world and VR takes the person away from the real world to a virtual world.