Skip to Main Content
Pollak Library

Virtual Reality: Augmented Reality & Mixed Reality

Augmented Reality (AR)

Using an augmented reality app on a phoneAugmented Reality (AR) is another type of computer-simulated experience that overlays digital objects – such as images, animation, text, and audio – onto the real world by using special equipment. Smartphone and tablet AR apps are the most common equipment, but there are special AR glasses and headsets too. Common examples of AR include the games Pokémon Go and Angry Birds, as well as SnapChat lenses and Instagram filters.

Mixed Reality (MR) experiences combine virtual reality and augmented reality.


Augmented Reality by Aether Io from Noun Project (CC BY 3.0)

VR vs. AR. vs. MR

This 1-1/2 -minute video provides an excellent explanation about the difference between virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) immersive technologies. 

Recommended AR Experiences