• Introduction

  • What Is Mixed Reality (MR)?

  • How Do MR Apps Work?

  • Mixed Reality Applications in the Real World

  • How to Get Started with MR Application Development?

Introduction

Get Started with Mixed Reality (MR) Application Development

One of the biggest market movers in recent years has been new-age technologies like AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality). These are immersive technologies that use computer-generated graphics and sensory devices to create an interactive environment. Mixed Reality (MR) is a relatively new concept that breaks down the barriers between the physical and digital worlds.

In the following sections, we will learn about this innovative technology, its usage in different fields and the MR application development process.

What Is Mixed Reality (MR)?

Mixed reality is a technology that superimposes computer-generated graphics on the physical world to create an interactive environment. This means that users can view both their surroundings as well as digital objects and interact with them.
The term ‘mixed reality’ was first introduced by a 1994 study done by Fumio Kishino and Paul Milgram called ‘A Taxonomy of Mixed Reality Visual Displays’. Today, the use of mixed reality is quite widespread; millions of people who use filters on social media sites use MR technology.

How Do MR Apps Work?

Mixed reality incorporates technologies such as 3D holograms, geographical mapping, vocal inputs, hand tracking and 3D modelling, among others. Cloud computing and artificial intelligence are used for most MR application development projects. All these technologies help to create a digital overlay anchored to the real world, with which users can interact.
To create a mixed reality environment, multiple devices such as intelligent eyewear, headphones, heads-up display (HUD), MR gloves, etc., are used. These mixed-reality devices connect to a wired or wireless computer, console or smartphone to process and store data for creating interactive 3D environments. The more the capability of these devices, the greater will be the mixed reality experience.

Types of Mixed Reality Devices

MR devices include special input devices such as intelligent eyewear, gloves, bodysuits and specialised headsets. Overall, MR devices can be classified into the following types:

1. Holographic Devices: These include devices that only partially cover the user’s surroundings to provide a semi-immersive experience. Examples include Microsoft HoloLens, Google Cardboard and Magic Leap VR.

2. Immersive Devices: These devices completely surround the user to create a virtual environment typically using a head-mounted display (HMD). Examples of immersive devices include Samsung Gear VR and Meta Quest 2.

Mixed Reality Applications in the Real World

Here are some examples of mixed reality applications across different industries:

Sports and Entertainment
With mixed reality, developers can create unique experiences that keep the audience enthralled. For example, some concerts are experimenting with MR where performers use digital props. Meanwhile, PGA Tour has created an app that lets its users render golf courses in 3D.

E-Learning
Incorporating MR in e-learning apps will retain the attention of children, helping them understand tough concepts and form lasting memories. MR applications can also help students take part in science experiments without the chance of compromising their safety.

Manufacturing
Many manufacturers are incorporating the use of mixed reality to streamline industrial processes and address technical challenges. MR can be used to give safety training to workers and coordinate a project with many participants. One can develop highly realistic replicas of machines and systems for training, evaluation and verification purposes.

MR Gaming
One may be familiar with interactive VR games that create a digital world for players. However, it can create a solitary gaming experience. An expert game developer can incorporate mixed reality elements into such games allowing the player’s friends to join him/her in the game.

Healthcare
Several MR application development projects are ongoing in the healthcare sector where MR is used for training and simulation. Using MR, junior doctors can get hands-on experience with surgical procedures, diagnostic tests, dissections, etc. It can also replace various practical examinations as a low-cost alternative.

Employee training
Mixed reality apps can be used by any organisation for creating a collaborative environment for its employees. For example, a company can use a video conferencing app with real-time translation and MR to eliminate language barriers.

The use cases of mixed reality do not end here. MR can also be used for product designing, online shopping, architecture, tourism, construction, public events and more. However, designing MR software is complicated, time-consuming and hardware-intensive. That is why taking the help of the top MR development company is recommended.

How to Get Started with MR Application Development?

As mentioned before, creating an MR app requires exceptional skills and talent. Here is a brief overview of our MR app development process:

1. Planning the Project Goals
Before getting started, one must have a clear vision of the project’s goals and how to accomplish them. In the planning phase, the techno-functional consultant in discussion with the client needs to decide on the function of the MR app, his/her budget for the project and a timeline. The right infrastructure is required to be set up including the project and team members in order to formulate the development process.

2. Preparation and Hiring
For a successful MR development project, one needs the service of highly talented people with the required specialisations. This includes Unity and Unreal developers for coding, animators, 3D modellers, UX (User Experience) designers, UI (User Interface) designers and project managers. Moreover, one needs the right software and tools and mixed reality devices.

It’s much easier to hire the services of a leading MR development company like ours. We have highly talented people that fulfil the above requirements and have lots of experience in MR application development.

3. Getting the Right Tools
To get started on an MR project, one will need access to various hardware and software tools. A project may utilise MR-enabled headsets such as HoloLens, HTC Vive or Meta Quest 2 and input devices such as cameras and motion controllers. Besides the hardware, one will need SDKs (Software Development Kits), APIs (Application Programme Interfaces) and MR content creation tools.

We use tools like Amazon Sumerian, Vectary, Vuforia Studio, ZapWorks, Wikitude Studio and ROAR for AR/VR/MR content creation.

4. Creating a Mock-up of the Project
Once all preparations are complete, developers must first create an initial mock-up through bodystorming. This process involves creating physical prototypes of MR objects using basic modelling materials. We make a mock-up app so that our clients can visualise the experience and suggest any required changes in the finished product.

5. Getting Help When Required

Finally, our app development team will turn the concept of an MR project into reality. A well-designed MR solution needs to be able to detect physical objects, track positions and locations and allow real-time environment perception.

Organisations like ours specialise in creating customised MR and XR (extended reality) solutions. With our assistance, any failing project can be successfully turned around, as well, even with a strict deadline.

Mixed reality combines the best aspects of AR and VR by providing a flexible and immersive experience. It can create highly interactive visuals that can be used for training and communication in a variety of fields or for entertainment. As more people continue to rely on remote work and cloud networks, this innovative technology will continue to gain more adopters.

We are a leading MR development company in India and China with years of experience in developing apps for renowned brands. Our team of experts are highly experienced in developing customised solutions in the field of AR, VR and MR. Any business looking for innovative solutions can order our services in a few clicks and we will immediately get in touch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Augmented reality involves only overlaying digital content in a real-world environment. It augments the user’s sense of perception. In contrast, mixed reality is a hybrid of AR and VR that allows users to interact with the digital overlay.

Vendors can incorporate MR into their retail apps to create a virtual showcase for their customers. Customers can try out a product, check out its features, bookmark it for subsequent purchase or share it with their friends.

In the healthcare and manufacturing sector, MR apps allow users to get hands-on experience in various procedures and drills that are difficult to simulate in real life. With MR, doctors can be trained in surgeries without requiring a patient. Similarly, firefighters can be drilled without exposing them to a real fire.

Mixed Reality experiences can be delivered through headsets like Microsoft HoloLens and Magic Leap, which incorporate sensors and cameras to blend digital content with the physical world.

Yes, MR is valuable in professional settings for tasks like design visualization, remote assistance, and training. It can enhance productivity and efficiency in various industries.

MR is generally safe for short to moderate use. Like VR, extended use may lead to discomfort or motion sickness. Users should take regular breaks.

MR is used in medical simulations, telemedicine, and physical therapy to create realistic and interactive training and treatment experiences.

Privacy concerns in MR are similar to those in AR and VR, as MR headsets may collect data through their sensors. Users should be aware of privacy settings and permissions.

Developers works on making MR experiences more inclusive for people with disabilities, offering features like auditory feedback and adaptable user interfaces.

MR content creation involves blending digital elements with the real world, often requiring precise 3D mapping and object recognition. This is more complex compared to AR and VR content creation.

Yes, MR platforms enable users to meet in shared virtual spaces, making it possible to socialize, work together, and collaborate with others in a mixed reality environment.

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