Computing in three dimensions.
WHAT VIRTUAL REALITY PROVIDES
A wholly simulated environment, replacing what is seen.
WHAT AUGMENTED REALITY PROVIDES
Content overlaid on the real world.
WHAT MIXED REALITY ADDS
Content interacting with real surfaces and objects.
WHAT THEY REQUIRE TECHNICALLY
Accurate tracking of head and hand position Very low latency between motion and display High and consistent frame rates Rendering two views
WHY LATENCY MATTERS SO MUCH
Delay between movement and display causes discomfort and nausea.
WHAT THE THRESHOLD IS
Low, and consistency matters as much as the average.
WHAT DROPPED FRAMES CAUSE
Immediate discomfort, not merely visual roughness.
WHAT THAT MEANS FOR DEVELOPMENT
Performance is a comfort and safety requirement, not a preference.
WHAT AUGMENTED REALITY ADDITIONALLY REQUIRES
Understanding real surfaces and lighting Stable placement of content as the device moves
WHAT APPLICATIONS HAVE PROVEN VALUABLE
Training and simulation Design review Remote assistance Surgical and industrial guidance
WHAT HAS PROVEN LESS DURABLE
Consumer entertainment claims made repeatedly over decades.
WHAT TO ASSESS
Whether three dimensions genuinely help the task.
