Augmented, Virtual and Mixed Reality Experiences


As computing power continues to accelerate and connectivity becomes ubiquitous, the way we interact with our digital world will continue to evolve and expand. We believe that immersive experiences will be at the center of user experiences in our homes and work places.
 
We typically include the following experiences in our definition of immersive experiences:
 

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality is the creation of a simulated environment with which a user can interact. This is can be a simulation of a real environment or conceptual environment. Typically, a combination of visual and audio cues is used to create the environment.
 

Augmented Reality

Augmented reality provides a view of the physical world where the real objects can be augmented with additional information, such as visual information or sounds. It also allows the introduction of virtual objects into the physical world space and for virtual object interaction with the real world.
 

Mixed Reality

Mixed Reality is term meant to encompass the spectrum of everything between pure augmented reality and pure virtual reality. Skyline has experience with devices along the full continuum of reality, including Microsoft partner devices.

 

Practical Applications

Many think of virtual reality when they hear of immersive experiences because virtual reality has been around for over 30 years. One challenge with virtual experiences is the device being wired to a processing unit. Sickness is sometimes associated with VR, but as the hardware gets better this issue gets mitigated. VR devices often require hand controllers to assist with the user experience.
 
Augmented reality experiences mix your physical environment with the virtual environment; your senses remain engaged with your physical world while providing additional sensory information, providing for prolonged usage. AR can usually use hand gestures, avoiding additional hand controllers.

Imagine being able to show your clients product options in a real environment, without ever having to create expensive and time-consuming mock-ups.
 
Here are just some of the ways you can gain a competitive edge with immersive experiences:
 
  1. Product placement – clients can see how products and displays will look in their environment.
  2. Equipment walkthrough – demonstrate how your equipment will operate in their facility.
  3. Architectural designs – take your client through an immersive tour of your building design.
  4. Training – simulate environments, reduce costs, and facilitate collaboration by allowing multiple people to see the same thing at the same time.

Different Devices for Different Experiences

Microsoft HoloLensMicrosoft HoloLens

Microsoft's HoloLens is touted as "the world’s most advanced holographic computer". 

The HoloLens provides mixed reality experiences that allow users to experience and manipulate virtual objects within their environment through the use of the onboard holographic processing unit.  

Manufacturer:  Microsoft

OculusRiftOculus Rift

The Oculus Rift is a virtual reality head-mounted display primarily used in gaming applications.

Manufacturer: Oculus VR (Facebook)

Samsung Gear VRSamsung Gear VR

The Samsung Gear VR leverages compatible Samsung GALAXY smartphones to create a virtual reality experience.  Samsung Gear VR is powered by Oculus.

Manufacturer:  Samsung

HTC ViveHTC Vive

HTC Vive is a virtual reality headset enabled with "room scale" technology that can turn a room into 3D space that users can manipulate and navigate naturally.

Manufacturer:  HTC and Valve Corporation

 

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Skyline has a series of immersive experience devices we'd love to show you!

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