Despite countless predictions about a future full of virtual reality (VR), it still hasn’t become a commonplace form of entertainment. Perhaps this is because VR is not cheap. To get the most out of it, you need an expensive headset as well as a powerful PC or games console. What is more, a lot of people feel uncomfortable, or even ill, when they put on a VR headset. Could it be, then, that augmented reality (AR) will have a much bigger impact on our lives?

AR is technology – or rather software – that involves adding images generated by computer to a device’s view of the user’s actual environment. It’s similar to watching a sports match and seeing the text on the screen; except the action is your real life and the screen is your device.

The hardware that delivers augmented reality is already everywhere – smartphones and tablets – so you want need to be persuaded to buy special equipment. You simply point your tablet or phone, in camera mode, at the place you wish to use, and any objects you need to use appear on the screen, as they are next to you. You might, for example, choose to ‘install’ a snooker table in your living room, or play a puzzle game that involves objects falling from the air onto the coffee table in your living room. The possibilities are endless.

There are also many practical applications of augmented reality. Thanks to AR, you can now measure a room with your device and find out whether furniture that appeals to your would fit in it – and how it would look. Several furniture stores have already launched their own AR apps for their customers. Three – dimensional maps are another use of AR and they have a lot of potential. You can use them to plan walks or cycle rides – or even to relive adventures you’ve already completed.

The educational possibilities of AR are also exciting. Imagine pointing your screen at the night sky, then receiving information about the stars you’re viewing, or learning about human anatomy in the same way by holding your phone or tablet above a part of your own body. This form of learning will surely give who aren’t keen on reading and writing a whole new interest I school.



Сhoose the correct answer (A, B, C, or D):

1.What does the author say about virtual reality?

A) It is considered to be affordable.

B) It has failed to meet expectations.

C) It has been good for people’s health.

D) It is the most popular form of entertainment.

2.Compared with virtual reality, the article says augmented reality is …

A) easier to explain.

B) Less like real life

C) More accessible

D) More expensive

3) The write describes augmented reality games that involve …

A) talking pictures

B) playing on a team

C) moving from one place to another

D) being indoors

4) According to the text, through augmented reality you can …

A) take a tour of a house

B) assess your fitness level

C) design your living space

D) try out a new bicycle

5) The text predicts that augmented reality will …

A) help children academically

B) become important in healthcare

C) make people more active

D) replace television[10]​