What is virtual reality (VR)?

VR is a simulated environment that replaces the user's surroundings. It can be

interacted with in a realistic manner by a person using a head-mounted display.

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What is augmented reality (AR)?

AR superimposes a computer-generated image  on a user's view of the real world. Some 

real-life examples include overlaying directions onto the road ahead of you, and projecting 

information about products that are viewed in a physical storefront. 

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What is mixed reality (MR)?

The merging of real and virtual worlds to produce new environments where physical and digital

objects co-exist. Recently, MR and AR have started to become synonymous with one another.

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What is a head-mounted display (HMD)?

A head-mounted display is device worn around your head that displays

optics in front of one or both eyes to replace or augment the surrounding environment

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What are the most popular HMDs?

Samsung Gear VR, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift,

Google Daydream, Playstation VR, Microsoft HoloLens

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What's the difference between computer-based

and phone-based VR?

Computer-based VR uses the computer power to produce the content viewed in the HMD, whereas phone-based uses the phone as the display, as well as the source of the content. Phone-based 

is currently limited in the quality of the available content due to the limitations of the phone.

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What is room-scale VR?

Room-scale VR is a type of virtual reality setup that allows the user to move throughout a designated

area, enhancing the experience and giving the user a greater sense of immersion. Other setups 

include stationary or seated VR, both of which limit the users ability to move.

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How much room does room-scale VR require?

The space requirements for room-scale VR differ for each device. The HTC Vive ranges from 5 ft x 6.5 ft all the way up to 11.5 ft x 11.5 ft. The Oculus Rift with two cameras enables a 5 ft x 5 ft space, but with a third camera, that limit increases to 8.2 ft x 8.2 ft. 

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What are 360 degree photographs and videos?

In 360 degree content, imagery is taken in all directions, then combined to form a single visual. The

viewers can then use an HMD to immerse themselves in the final product, allowing them to 

look around as if they were in the content. Since the user's interaction with the environment is limited,

the level of immersion is limited as well.

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What are haptics?

Haptics are devices that create a physical response to a virtual action.  An early example is the rumble pak for the Nintendo 64, which caused the controller to vibrate when something happened in

the video game. In VR, they allow the user to "touch" objects, or "feel" environments in the virtual world.

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Any other questions?

If there are any other questions you may have, please contact us and we will make sure to get it answered for you!

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