Virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality are included in the immersive technologies. Immersive technologies refer to the technology that allows people to get the experience of the digital and stimulated environment i.e virtual world in a real-world environment. 

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual reality is a world that is different from reality i.e. virtual world. The term was first coined by, Jaron Lanier in 1987, during his research on the same technology. A simulated environment is created using a VR headset and helps individuals to engage in a virtual world. Many companies have invested in this technology which is also called the VR sector, among them some well-known companies are Sony PlayStation VR, Lenovo Mirage, Nintendo LeBeau VR kit, and so on. 

VR is mostly used in medicine, much more popular in gaming, also in education, sports, the military, etc. Some real-life example of VR includes Class VR which is a user-friendly interface for both students, as well as teachers that make the lectures interactive, knowledgeable, and educational with help of gesture and controls using VR headsets. Other example includes Facebook Horizon, VR 360, etc. 

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality i.e AR means placing digital objects in the real world. It is not a newer technology. Ivan Sutherland developed the first AR head-mounted gadget, named ‘Sword of Damocles’ in 1968, it was computer graphics for showing users simple wireframe drawings. 

AR falls in between VR and reality. It is a type of technology that casts computer-generated augmentation on top of actuality. It has become fascinating in today's technology, AR is possible using smartphone applications such as popular games like Pokemon Go to fetch Pokemon and Ikea app used for viewing how furniture can fit in the space such applications have gained popularity in recent years. 

Other popular applications include Google Maps, location-based AR apps that provide digital directions and locations to reach destinations by walking, etc. Google Lens, Snapchat, and Facebook AR Maps are common among augmented reality applications. 

Mixed Reality(MR)

It is the best combination of both virtual reality and augmented reality to create an experience beyond imagination. Mixed reality combines digital things and the real world in such a manner that it resembles the thing that actually belongs to that place.MR is another version of augmented reality, i.e. AR 2.0 version. It is in its initial stage i.e. in its testing period. 

It's gaining importance in education, training, sports, construction as well in space missions. One of the famous examples of mixed reality is Microsoft Hololens (It consists of smart pair of glasses to give a 3D hologram experience, to get interacted); One can also view and interact with their favorite superheroes, like Ironman, etc, isn't this technology fascinating and unusual!!

The Benefits and Similarities between VR, AR, and MR:

Benefits:

• They attract many business persons and get more attention and grow in the market quickly. 
• VR, AR, and MR are also becoming helpful tools in manufacturing.
•  These technologies will help companies, advertisers, and various brands to grab the attention of customers.
• They can be useful in reimaging the future and helps us in transforming and gaining importance day by day. 
• All three technologies are trying to connect the real environment with virtual tools, allowing to enhance productivity. 

Similarities: 

1. The commonality between all three technologies is that they combine the physical and digital worlds, and modify the way to perceive real-world objects.
2.  One should be aware of the software, while they are been implemented in various businesses in these technologies. 
3. All three technologies are complex and different from each other. 

Conclusion: 

Immersive technologies have become much more popular and included our day-to-day life. VR is 75% to 80% imaginative, while AR has the same percent that of the real environment. These technologies have changed the perception and are giving unbelievable responses as per the user and technology concerns. 

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