What is the difference between virtual reality and augmented reality?

“Isn’t it called virtual reality?” – Not always. Nowadays there are so many realities, it is easy to lose track. But we’re here to help. The difference between virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) is easy to explain: VR entails creating an entirely new digital world. With AR, the real world is “enriched” with virtual elements in real time. AR can be generated by means of computer-assisted control and cameras of the kind installed in ever more mobile devices. In other words, it can add digital details to our photos and videos.

This is the principle underlying the Linde Virtual Showroom app, for example, which allows full-sized forklifts to be projected into a room by means of a smartphone or tablet camera. This allows you to verify whether a new truck you intend to buy would actually fit in the aisles of your warehouse – before you sign on the dotted line.

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