Introduction

The term spatial computing has gained prominence within the AR/VR industry since Apple's unveiling of the Vision Pro. By adopting "spatial computing" as the category name, Apple has established a new industry standard for terminology. Prior to this, these technologies were commonly referred to as:

• AR/VR, encompassing augmented reality and virtual reality, implicitly including mixed reality

• XR, denoting extended reality

• Immersive technologies

What Exactly is Spatial Computing?

Spatial computing encompasses technologies that enable humans to interact with computers within a three-dimensional space.

Since the widespread adoption of personal computers in the 1990s and smartphones in the 2010s, users primarily engaged with computers through two-dimensional, screen-based interfaces. Spatial computing introduces a new medium, facilitating more immersive and physically interactive experiences.

Technologies falling under the spatial computing umbrella term include:

• Augmented reality

• Virtual reality

• Mixed reality

Augmented Reality (AR) vs. Spatial Computing

Augmented reality (AR) overlays digital elements, like virtual screens, 3D models, or interactive graphics, onto the physical world. Users remain present in their environment but with added digital content.

While augmented reality is a subset of spatial computing, the broader term encompasses fully immersive experiences, such as virtual reality.

Example of Augmented Reality

Virtual Reality (VR) vs. Spatial Computing

Virtual reality (VR) immerses users into a fully simulated virtual environment, disconnecting them from the physical world. In VR environments, users interact with 3D worlds and engage in various experiences, from training simulations to interactive gaming.

Virtual reality is one subset of spatial computing, which encompasses technologies facilitating interactive experiences within three-dimensional spaces.

Example of Virtual Reality

Mixed Reality (MR) vs. Spatial Computing

Mixed reality (MR) combines elements of both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), allowing physical and virtual elements to interact in real-time. Unlike VR, which transports users to a completely virtual world, or AR, which overlays digital elements onto the physical world, mixed reality offers a hybrid experience integrating immersive virtual experiences and real-world elements.

Mixed reality is a type of spatial computing, which is a broader category including VR, AR, and MR. It's important to note that standalone VR or AR experiences are not considered mixed reality, although all fall under the umbrella of spatial computing experiences.

Example of Mixed Reality

Mixed reality(MR) is a type of spatial computing, a broader category that includes VR, AR, and MR. However, it's important to note that standalone VR or AR experiences are not classified as mixed reality, though they all fall under the umbrella of spatial computing experiences.

Conclusion

Augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality are all technologies encompassed within the spatial computing umbrella. Other terms used interchangeably with spatial computing include AR/VR, extended reality (XR), and immersive technologies.

With the launch of the new generation of spatial computing hardware, we're entering a realm of vast business opportunities, applying these technologies to innovative use cases.