The terms virtual and augmented reality are often confused, but both technologies operate on different principles.

Virtual reality glasses try to lure the user into the simulated world and completely cut off his senses from the real world. As a rule, the eyes completely cover the screen and the headphones are placed on the ears, which very often are part of the whole system.

Augmented reality systems usually look like ordinary glasses, through which the user can see everything that is happening around him. Special screens or cameras then add virtual objects to the real space. In fact, they connect the virtual world with the real one.

And Microsoft has been attracting augmented reality for several years. So far, the latest model to be introduced is the HoloLens 2, which is based on the same idea as the number one manufacturer, but has improved a number of important elements. For example, glasses are generally more compact and more comfortable to wear. This is mainly due to the fact that the structure is now made of carbon, which is lighter but stronger.

The front of the model is as transparent as the real glasses. When the user wears them, he sees the real objects in front of him. In the corner of each eye, however, there is a special camera that can project the image on the cornice in real time. In practice, then it seems that a virtual object has really been created in front of you. But everything is done only on headphones.

And the new Mesh platform, recently introduced by the American software giant, is related to the HoloLens 2 model. It is basically an interface that allows you to invite other people to your living room or office. Of course, they will not be there, of course, but as a hologram – they will appear in space just like other objects.

Microsoft promises through innovation that it will be used, for example, in teaching or collaborating on various projects in companies where people cannot be physically together in a room. Teachers will be able to teach in an interactive format for students on the other side of the world. The first demonstrations suggest that it will be the same experience as when everyone was in the same class together.

The American software giant could not have better timed the launch of the Mesh platform – it comes at a time when people had to quickly reduce their social contacts due to the coronavirus pandemic. The new augmented reality system could thus play a key role, for example, in various entertainment events and concerts.

Sony, on the other hand, has big plans for virtual reality this year, with Hideaki Nishino, head of entertainment, saying that players can soon look forward to the second generation of the PlayStation VR virtual helmet. Like the first version, it will be designed exclusively for the PlayStation TV console.

“After the development of the new VR headset, players will feel even more involved in the game, all their senses will be fully immersed in different game worlds. We are committed to continuing to innovate the virtual reality system so that all PlayStation owners can “Enjoy a unique gaming experience,” said Nishino.

According to him, the new helmet should have a better screen resolution or higher field of view. However, the manufacturer has also worked to track traffic and reduce latency and we should also look forward to new checks. However, we will have to wait a little longer for more information.