What is Mixed Reality (MR)? How is MR used?

The same goes for Mixed Reality (MR). So, what exactly is Mixed Reality, and how is it being used today?

What is Mixed Reality (MR)?

The most popular type of augmented reality today, VR, uses a headset to bring an individual into a fully virtual world that they can interact with, often using a controller. Additionally, AR does not require a headset and involves superimposing virtual elements on top of the real world layer seen through the camera lens.

Mixed reality is a combination of these two technologies. In mixed reality contexts, virtual elements or objects may still be present, but users can also interact with it. This is not the same as VR, as these virtual elements are present in the real world context. And it's not the same as AR because the user can interact with virtual objects.

Individuals using mixed reality can experience 360-degree environments and can even see and interact with objects as they move around. Let's look at some examples to fully understand what it can offer.

When designing a car, having an element of practicality combined with virtual planning can be of great help. This is why MR is being introduced into automotive design. Imagine being able to view virtual designs and have the ability to rotate, move, or even change them in real time, without the need for a mouse, trackpad, or stylus. This is the kind of convenience MR can provide.

It is also important to note that MR is also a general term used to refer to all types of altered virtual reality technology. But it is more common to use the term "Extended Reality" in such cases.

The potential of MR has certainly been noticed by the technology giants. Apple and Meta are two good examples of companies ramping up the release of MR headsets in the near future, while Microsoft has already released headsets using Holoportation technology and the Mixed Mesh Reality platform.

Now, let's see how MR is being used in different industries.

How is Mixed Reality used today?

1. House design

It's often hard to imagine what our dream home or room would look like, so using technology to help with this entrepreneurial venture can be beneficial. MR may one day give homeowners the ability to design in a virtual setting so they know exactly what their space will look like.

Mixed reality home design will allow people to move objects around, try on different furniture, or even view different wall and carpet colors, all through one lens. virtual. You could already do this using AR on a smartphone app or similar, but the experience isn't realistic or immersive.

2. Education

Learning can be tedious at times, but XR now gives schools the ability to enhance their students' educational experience. Using MR, an individual can learn in a much more immersive way, as they can actually interact with whatever they learn.

This will make it easier for students to learn about a wide range of different topics, such as anatomy, mechanics, wildlife, etc.

3. Staff training

Another area where MR can be used is employee training. Some jobs require lengthy training, which can sometimes be frustrating or even ineffective if done incorrectly. So, by using MR, employees can better understand what they need and what they have to do when going through workplace challenges in a virtual environment. This can be especially helpful in construction, engineering or customer service positions.

Mixed Reality could one day prove itself useful in almost any industry. Its ability to blend physical and virtual environments in real time opens the door to a wide range of possibilities, be it in work, personal life or study. You may be able to experience the MR headset for yourself in the near future!

Lesley Montoya

Update 27 May 2022