Description: Mixed Reality (MR) is an innovative combination of physical and virtual worlds where both can interact seamlessly. Unlike Augmented Reality (AR), which overlays digital elements onto the real environment, and Virtual Reality (VR), which immerses the user in a completely virtual setting, MR allows physical and digital objects to coexist and influence each other. This interaction is achieved through advanced devices that use sensors, cameras, and processing algorithms to map the physical environment and overlay virtual elements coherently. MR not only transforms how we experience the world but also opens new possibilities in various fields such as education, entertainment, and remote collaboration. Its ability to create immersive and collaborative experiences makes it a powerful tool for innovation and creativity, allowing users to interact with data and objects in ways that were previously unimaginable.
History: The term ‘Mixed Reality’ was first coined in 1994 by Paul Milgram and Fumio Kishino, who proposed a continuum ranging from pure Virtual Reality to pure Augmented Reality. Over the years, technology has evolved significantly, with important milestones such as the development of devices like Microsoft HoloLens in 2016, which popularized MR in commercial and educational applications. Since then, MR has continued to evolve, integrating into various platforms and devices.
Uses: Mixed Reality is used in a variety of fields, including education, where it allows students to interact with 3D models in an immersive way; in medicine, to simulate surgical procedures; and in industry, for employee training and project visualization. It is also applied in entertainment, providing more interactive and immersive gaming experiences.
Examples: An example of Mixed Reality is the use of devices that allow users to visualize 3D plans in real-world environments. Another example is the use of MR applications in education that enable students to explore scientific concepts in interactive environments.
