Immersive Technology Glossary: Key Terms and Definitions
Artificial Intelligence (AI): The simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as natural language processing, problem-solving, and decision-making. ChatGPT is the most popular currently.
XR (Extended Reality): An umbrella term that encompasses all immersive technologies, including AR, VR, and MR, and Metaverse to describe experiences that combine real and virtual environments.
VR (Virtual Reality): A simulated experience that immerses users in a computer-generated environment, typically experienced through a head-mounted display and often involving interaction through handheld controllers or sensors.
MR (Mixed Reality): A blend of virtual and real-world elements, where physical and digital objects coexist and interact in real-time, allowing users to engage with both the physical and virtual worlds simultaneously.
Immersive: Refers to experiences that deeply engage and captivate the user’s senses, typically involving virtual or augmented reality technologies to create a highly interactive and realistic environment.
Interactive: Describes experiences that allow users to actively participate and engage with digital content, often through touch, gestures, or other input methods.
Metaverse: A virtual universe or collective virtual shared space that encompasses multiple interconnected virtual worlds, where users can interact with each other and the environment in real-time.
Real World: The physical, tangible environment in which we live, encompassing the actual, physical existence of people, objects, and places
Virtual World/ World: A computer-generated, simulated environment that can be accessed and interacted with by users. It is designed to replicate certain aspects of the real world or create entirely fictional or imaginative settings. Users can engage with virtual worlds through virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), or other digital platforms, often offering various levels of interactivity and immersion.
Hybrid: Refers to a combination of different technologies or approaches, such as blending physical and digital elements, or combining virtual reality with other technologies like augmented reality or mixed reality.
Holographic: Pertains to the production, display, or interaction with holograms, which are three-dimensional images created using light diffraction, appearing as if they exist in the physical space.
3D: A digital representation or simulation of an object or space that appears three-dimensional in a virtual environment or application, providing a lifelike and immersive experience.
Virtual: Relating to a computer-generated simulation or environment that emulates reality, allowing users to interact with and experience digital content as if it were real.
Internet of Things (IoT): A network of interconnected physical devices, vehicles, appliances, and other objects embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity, enabling them to collect and exchange data.
Cloud Computing: The delivery of on-demand computing resources, such as servers, storage, databases, software, and analytics, over the internet, enabling flexible and scalable access to technology resources.
NFT (Non-Fungible Token): A unique digital asset that is stored on a blockchain, representing ownership or proof of authenticity for a specific item, artwork, or collectible
Crypto (Cryptocurrency): A digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for secure financial transactions, control the creation of additional units, and verify the transfer of assets. It operates independently of a central bank and is decentralized in nature.
Blockchain: A decentralized and distributed digital ledger that records transactions across multiple computers, ensuring transparency, security, and immutability.
