Description: Hybrid reality is an innovative combination of physical and digital worlds, where physical and digital objects coexist and interact in real time. This technology allows users to experience an environment where virtual elements overlay and integrate with the real world, creating an immersive and enriching experience. Unlike augmented reality, which simply adds digital elements to the physical environment, hybrid reality allows for deeper interaction, where digital objects can respond to user actions and physical environment conditions. This is achieved through advanced devices such as augmented reality glasses and motion tracking systems, which enable a more precise and realistic perception of the interaction between worlds. Hybrid reality has the potential to transform various industries, from education to entertainment, by offering experiences that combine the best of both worlds. Its relevance lies in the ability to enhance understanding and interaction with information, facilitating a more dynamic and engaging learning experience, as well as creating more collaborative and efficient work environments.
History: The term ‘hybrid reality’ was popularized in the 1990s, although its roots can be traced back to early developments in virtual and augmented reality. One significant milestone was the work of Paul Milgram and Fumio Kishino, who in 1994 introduced the ‘virtuality continuum,’ which spans from real reality to full virtual reality, including augmented reality and hybrid reality. As technology advanced, especially with the development of mobile devices and sensors, hybrid reality began to take shape in practical applications, allowing for more complex interactions between the physical and digital worlds.
Uses: Hybrid reality is used in various applications, including education, where it allows students to interact with 3D models of complex concepts; in medicine, for real-time visualization of medical data during surgical procedures; and in design and architecture, where designers can overlay digital models onto the physical environment to visualize projects in their real context. It is also applied in entertainment, creating more immersive experiences, and in marketing, where brands can offer interactive experiences to consumers.
Examples: An example of hybrid reality is the use of Microsoft HoloLens in education, where students can explore 3D molecular structures overlaid in their real environment. Another case is the use of augmented reality applications that allow users to visualize products in their surroundings through their mobile device’s camera, interacting with virtual objects as if they were real. In the medical field, hybrid reality systems can project images onto the patient’s skin, facilitating the localization of veins for blood extraction.
