The future is here with spatial computing, a ground-breaking technology that seamlessly combines physical and digital worlds. Virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), and augmented reality (AR) offer varying degrees of virtual immersion, but all are sure to revolutionize the way that we live our lives. The possibilities are boundless, but it is clear that spatial computing will reshape the way we perceive reality and engage in social interaction.
Augmented reality (AR) coexists with the natural world by providing a layer of digital elements to our surroundings. It can be likened to having a digital assistant by your side. Mixed reality (MR) is more immersive because it allows for interaction between the virtual and physical world. Virtual reality (VR) is a full experience and transports users completely into computer-generated worlds. With goggles and other sense-replicating gear, a VR user can experience the physical world completely melting away.
Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro are leading the way in the rapid uptake of this technology. The number of devices with AR capabilities is expected to reach 1.4 billion by 2024, and as technology develops, cumbersome goggles will be replaced by ultra-sleek near-to-eye displays. Smartphones may even become obsolete as people begin to favor the devices with these types of displays.