XR, Extended Reality

XR, or Extended Reality, is an umbrella term that refers to all immersive technologies that blend or extend physical and digital reality. XR includes Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), as well as their various combinations.

• Virtual Reality (VR): The user is completely immersed in a digital environment where they can interact with 3D models or simulations. VR typically requires the use of VR headsets.
  
• Augmented Reality (AR): Digital content such as 3D models or data layers is overlaid onto the real-world view via smartphones, tablets or AR glasses.
  
• Mixed Reality (MR): The physical and digital worlds merge seamlessly, allowing virtual objects to realistically interact with the environment. MR enables more complex industrial applications, where, for example, digital interfaces can be layered over the physical production environment.
  
• Industrial applications of XR: XR is used in industrial settings for maintenance, training, remote support, design, and optimisation of production processes. In Reality Twin systems, XR can enhance the user experience and improve data visualisation.
• Devices and technologies: XR applications may run on VR headsets, AR glasses, mobile devices, or interactive displays, enabling multi-layered interaction between the digital and physical worlds.

XR technology is a key part of industrial digitalisation, as it enables real-time data utilisation, improves decision-making, and reduces the need for physical inspections or on-site training.

See also: VR, Virtual Reality, AR, Augmented Reality