The word "augment" means to enlarge, extend, or enhance. Augmented reality (AR) can be understood as a type of extended reality (XR) in which the real world is extended or enhanced through the use of virtual elements, usually by overlaying those elements on the display of the real world through the use of a visual device.
What is Augmented Reality (AR) in 60 seconds
AR can work in different ways and is used for different reasons, but in most cases, virtual augmented reality objects are overlaid and tracked over the real world, creating the illusion that they occupy the same space.
Augmented reality devices have a display, input device, sensor, and processor. These devices can include monitors, head-mounted displays, glasses, contact lenses, game consoles, and even smartphones. Sound and touch feedback can be incorporated into an AR system, as well as other non-visual methods and devices.
While augmented reality may seem somewhat similar to other forms of XR, such as virtual reality (VR), it is distinctly different. Virtual reality is an experience that is fully simulated, both the image of “reality” and the objects within it, while AR uses only some virtual aspects, blending them with reality to form something else.
