Introduction

There is confusion about the differences between virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and extended reality (XR). To understand these technologies, one must understand the virtuality continuum, which contains the full spectrum of possibilities between the entirely physical world and the fully digital world.

What is Extended Reality (XR)?

Extended reality (XR) is an umbrella term that encompasses any sort of technology that alters reality by adding digital elements to the physical or real-world environment. This blurs the line between the physical and digital world.

Augmented Reality (AR)

AR superimposes digital elements into the real-world environment, making it close to the physical world end of the virtuality continuum.

Mixed Reality (MR)

In MR, users can see and interact with both digital and physical elements.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Even if users know VR experiences are "fake," their bodies can respond as if they were real because humans construct reality based on the information perceived by their senses. As a UX designer, understanding the different dimensions of the experience and the particulars of VR technology is necessary to create the best user experience.

Conclusion

All technologies that alter perception of reality by adding digital elements to the physical world can be situated somewhere on the virtuality continuum. Understanding the differences between AR, MR, VR, and XR is crucial for designing experiences that optimize each technology and advance a career in UX.