Introduction to Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality
You can have heard the terms Augmented Reality (AR) or Virtual Reality (VR) used most frequently when talking about video and online gaming using virtual reality goggles. However, because of the rise in AR and VR technologies linked to social media, that AR/VR will change the way in which we communicate, including how we communicate about health. At one time, AR and VR gave the look of some far-off technology reserved for sci-fi, but when you’ve ever used a filter or mask in Snapchat or Instagram, you’ve already used AR.
What is AR and VR?
Before we dive into how AR and VR are getting used, let’s talk in regards to the basics:
- AR is “a live view overlaid with information.” An AR experience uses someone’s surroundings in real-time and adds layers of tech on top. As we mentioned, the filters utilized in Snapchat and Instagram Stories are two good examples of AR.
- VR, however, is a very immersive experience most frequently delivered through VR headsets and glasses. Once a user is wearing the glasses, they’re totally surrounded by a virtual world.
Current Uses of AR and VR
We’ve already mentioned how some social media channels have began to integrate AR and VR into the apps you utilize day-after-day. In addition to the camera effects present in Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook, Snapchat recently launched features that may dance and play inside your videos. Similarly, Facebook just announced that users can now interact with one another of their newsfeeds. Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention social media platforms: a VR experience that permits users to ‘hang around’ with their friends from anywhere on the planet.
Future Possibilities of AR and VR
These preliminary uses of AR and VR represent a bigger trend in how this technology may very well be utilized in the long run. This technology remains to be gaining speed in the sector of communication, but there are several ways AR and VR might change the way in which we interact with the world around us:
- Defy geographic boundaries. The tools can reduce geographic limitations, so we are able to communicate/meet without boundaries. Individuals could virtually gather to satisfy, learn, and discuss health issues from anywhere on the planet.
- Foster a stronger emotional connection. Instead of telling a story through traditional text and imagery, imagine in case your audience may very well be completely immersed within the story itself. This immersion could increase the emotional connection between the story and the audience member.
- Distraction-free, immersive experiences. Individuals are bombarded with a number of information every day. Instead of competing in your audience’s attention, communicating with them through VR may lead to distraction-free interactions.
- Improve the way in which we communicate about health. AR and VR could create latest applications that might change how we communicate about health. Whether it’s a brand new VR tool that’s helping seniors unlock memories to tools that might help treat substance use, AR and VR technology have potential to alter the healthcare experience.
Staying Up-to-Date on AR and VR
As technology continues to evolve on the speed of sunshine, there are a number of ways which you can stay up-to-date on the emerging world of AR/VR:
- Keep tabs on social media tools that were early adopters of AR and VR. For example, follow together with Facebook’s annual product updates. In addition, we also wish to continuously visit the News pages of our favourite social media sites.
- Check sites like social media news sites. These sites deliver social media news in addition to case studies and suggestions and tricks for strategically using digital communication.
- Sign as much as get updates delivered to your inbox. Our team often covers news and updates on digital communication and the way the updates will impact communication work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, AR and VR are changing the way in which we communicate, and it’s not nearly gaming anymore. These technologies have the potential to defy geographic boundaries, foster stronger emotional connections, create distraction-free experiences, and improve the way in which we communicate about health. By staying up-to-date on the newest developments and trends, you may be a component of this exciting evolution and explore the numerous possibilities that AR and VR need to offer.
