XR - Virtual Reality / Augmented Reality

Extended reality (XR), which encompasses virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), is a collection of rapidly growing technologies with an increasing number of applications being researched and deployed in the field of geography.

Content

Others

Development Tools and Frameworks

XR development has and continues to be a complex and specialized field often requiring in-depth knowledge of game development, 3D modelling, and programming languages like C# or JavaScript. When developing content for XR, identify the goals of your project and consult UBC’s Emerging Media Lab to get assistance with setting a clear scope and connecting with partners.

360 images and video are often a good place to get started with VR content as they can be easier to create and accessible to wider audiences while still providing an immersive experience.

For AR, review platforms, like Echoes, which provide interfaces and support for developing and distributing virtual tours.

WebXR

WebXR is a new set of standards that enable VR and AR content to be rendered via web browsers. In some browsers, like Firefox and Safari, WebXR is still flagged as experimental, but it can be enabled through adjustments in settings.

  • AR and VR Using the WebXR API: Learn to Create Immersive Content with WebGL, Three.js, and A-Frame : UBC Library | WorldCat

Different frameworks have been in development over the past few years to help simplify developing VR content with WebXR and its now obsolete predecessor, WebVR.

  • A-Frame - A popular, HTML and JavaScript-based framework for developing web-based VR content.

  • Babylon.js A JavaScript-based framework for developing web-based VR Content

Unity

Unity provides provides a powerful editor game engine for developing AR and VR applications. Multiple software development kits have been developed to extend its functionality and cohesively work with GIS software.

Relevant Plugins and SDK

Godot

While lacking the maturity, ease-of-use, and breadth of GIS integrations compared to Unity, the Godot game engine is an increasingly popular choice for AR and VR development in both commercial and academic settings due to it being a powerful, free and open-source option. LandscapeLab provides an excellent example of how the engine can be applied within a geography-centered setting.

Relevant Plugins and SDK

Blender

Blender is a widely used piece of free and open source software with a range of applications, which include developing and editing 3D models, which can easily be exported to the VR development tools listed above.

Relevant Plugins and SDK

OpenBrush

Other Tools