Reality is not what it was. Augmented
reality (AR) can enhance our
perceptions of the real environment by
overlaying images of it with sensory
input such as sound, graphical overlays,
video and various other types of data.
Technology can also simulate our
physical presence in virtual reality (VR)
worlds where we can interact online:
some of our experiences of virtual
worlds can be largely visual and aural
with simple interfaces such as keyboard,
mouse and headphones, or they can be
much more immersive, using devices
such as wired gloves and headmounted
displays to overlay and
augment our perceptions.
ADOPTION
Nanotechnology is being used to make
tiny objects (100 millionth of a
millimetre or less) that can augment
reality: such as contact lenses with
overlays and a Braille keyboard with
refreshable soft cells that will improve
interaction with computers. Apple is
among those developing technology to
make our mobile use of AR more
interactive. VR has become essential in
industries such as automotive, oil and
gas, to the visualisation of complex
processes. Accountants are using the
virtual world Second Life to recruit
trainees, attract clients and develop
new lines of business, and holding
meetings in online role-playing games
such as World of Warcraft.