Augmented reality & Virtual reality (AR & VR) earn
promising growth in the e-commerce, gaming, and education markets.
Organizations are considering both technologies to foster the user experience.
Well, both technologies are different, so you might be confused. Through the
discussion below, we will make a clear distinction.
At one stage of your life, you might be used to watching 3D
movies & amazed by the visuals. Thanks to the evolving technologies that
bring us to the place where users can simulate reality through AR and VR. We
already witnessed how AR/VR transformed the entertainment and gaming industry.
Nowadays, there is a growing demand for AR/VR in multiple other
domains. Organizations are now looking to create and deliver an immersive
product experience to the users. With the integration of AR/VR technology,
the traditional methods of testing no longer work. The following blog helps you
understand the factors in brief.
Importance Of AR/VR Technologies
AR gives a real-world interactive experience, and it also
fosters real things in system-generated perception. Computer-generated visuals
in real-time can also transform the surroundings and environment. It ranges
from video to music, GPS overlays to graphics, and much more. This is termed a
powerful tool for branding and gaming since it can be accessible through
smartphones.
VR also provides a computer-generated experience that features
real-looking objects and images that immerse viewers in their environment. VR
provides a similar experience to the real world. You can witness the beauty of
this world by using the VT helmet. This is used in multiple fields like
entertainment, education & business.
Now, the biggest question that arises is, “Does AR differ from
VR?” AR and VR technology are different from each other in terms of the
equipment used and the experience they simulate for the users. AR utilizes the
real-world environment, whereas VR refers to the virtual experience. In AR,
virtual elements are integrated into the physical environment, whereas VR
completely allows users to be immersed in the virtual atmosphere.
When it comes to AE, users have all the potential over the
physical environment. In VR, the system itself controls the user environment.
In VR, to simulate the real-time experience, people have to use an advanced
helmet, but in AR, you don’t require anything like this. AR integrates the real
world & virtual world into one space, whereas VR only simulates fiction.
Multiple industries use these technologies, and here we are sharing some examples. The popular applications of AR are:
- YouCamMakeup is an online app where users can try real-life cosmetics on their faces virtually by uploading a selfie.
- Have you visited the online site of Ikea Place? So, this mobile application enables users to envision Ikea furniture. It gives the 3D representation of any furniture piece.
- Multiple sport-related games offer real-time statistics. It also improves the athlete's training.
Some businesses that use VR technologies in their application
are:
●
Firefighters are allowed to use the
VR in any hazardous situation.
●
Currently, the Automobiles &
other vehicles are also designed in VR.
●
Architecture also uses VR to design
homes.
VR/AR
has a bright, promising future. It has the potential to bring widespread usage.
What Are the Challenges of AR/VR Testing?
1.
The
Complexity of Immersive Environments
Developing an immersive & realistic virtual environment
brings multiple challenges. Social richness and online presence are measured
nowadays. Well, current software & hardware struggle to grab these things.
Well, now the industry is looking for details, no matter which sector you are
in. Photorealism needs scale, materials, lighting, graphics, etc., to meet with
real environments. It requires the necessary amount of processing power,
storage, data, and optimization to ignore the bugs.
2.
Hardware
Diversity and Compatibility Issues
The industry faces multiple issues with the integration of AR/VR
in terms of performance and display quality. Hardware limitation is the basic
challenge that arises with the integration of AR & VR. The technologies are
currently facing widespread challenges in achieving immersion. The display
& headsets are not meeting with the complete view because of low latency,
refresh rate, etc.
Graphics cards are still too costly for average customers. The
amount of storage space needed for VR software, updates, content, and user data
keeps growing quickly without corresponding advancements in bandwidth or
storage space. The faulty input enabling natural movement, deception, and
interaction in virtual worlds is provided via sensors, motors, and hand
tracking.
Several devices, interfaces, software platforms, sensors, &
content production tools that are not fully interoperable or tailored to
function together provide additional obstacles when integrating AR and VR
technology. Inadequate compatibility hampers the ease of portability, sharing,
and wider acceptance among general users.
3.
User
Interaction and Experience Considerations
Another big challenge in the adoption of AR and VR tools is user
interactions among users and their experience. The following technologies cause
motion sickness and affect stress levels and eye strain, especially when
integrated into low-quality hardware and software. Some other challenges are
ensuring privacy concerns, health effects, data use, and minimizing the
mainstream appeal. Earlier, only young people had adopted VR technology to have
a thrilling experience. However, VR/AR now also attracts the general audience,
mostly from the gaming industry. It ensures users that the tools are ergonomic,
intuitive, and accessible.
It is possible for unreasonable demands for escape to grow,
which makes it difficult to operate in the actual world. A captivating
storytelling & social interaction or additional engaging experiences are
required for content to be financially beneficial. Broader acceptance of
virtual reality and augmented reality will depend on how they are priced,
packaged, and marketed to look accessible, useful, and attractive rather than
quirky. The early users will also be assisted in their journey to mainstream
consumers by offering choices for trial before purchasing.
Essential AR/VR Testing Strategies
In VR/AR testing, the IT team performs multiple testing types to
offer better coverage. Here, we share some of them along with the applications.
●
Functionality
Testing
The IT team performs functionality testing in AR/VR applications
to ensure whether the scene rendering is accurate or not. It requires the
design and implementation of test cases based on the business necessities and
practicality. Through this testing, the IT team also ensures the software meets
all the performance requirements.
●
Usability
Testing
In usability testing, the IT team verifies whether the use case
is aligned with the preferences of the targeted market. When the QA testing
runs the tests, it helps to deliver feedback on the usability of the software.
It also gives insight into user interactions. So, overall, this testing is
performed to assess the intuitiveness & ease of use. It also describes the
safety evaluation & user comfort and helps to collect the feedback from the
test users.
●
Compatibility
Testing
This testing method is necessary for setting up low- to high-end
setups. The compatibility testing ensures the app's performance and offers the
confidence that the product is performing as expected on the targeted tools
& platforms. In compatibility testing, the team checks whether the
application is compatible with the hardware, such as controllers, headsets, and
other peripherals. It also ensures the app is compatible with the software,
such as 3rd party applications and different operating systems.
●
Performance
Testing
In performance testing, the QA testing team runs tests on tools
by giving different loads & checking whether the application performs under
certain pressure or not. This testing also verifies that the software allows
better audio and graphic performance. It helps to align the user’s
expectations. Performance testing measures the application speed, battery
consumption, memory camera, and screen use of any application.
●
Security
Testing
When integrating AR
VR testing services, there are significant use
cases. These tools are even used by the soldiers to train the soldiers. When
any single piece of information leaks, it breaches the nation's security
system. Nowadays, general users are also giving priority to using secure software/applications.
Running security testing is crucial for businesses to track data loss risks and
privacy errors. Security testing verifies that the application matches with the
data privacy standards. It guarantees users that they can securely transfer payment
and data under safety protocols.
Tools and Frameworks for AR/VR Testing
AR & VR have been there over the years, but now it is
getting more famous because of the adoption of tech giants. Now, the tech
giants are utilizing these tools to deliver quality experiences. Due to this,
the AR/VR market has witnessed a sudden hike in the last few years. It widely
helps the entertainment and retail businesses. Whether it’s about interactive
research or improved gaming experience, AR & VR technology is booming at a
rapid pace. The major companies have also adopted this to design an interactive
and captivating shopping experience for their users.
Which Are Emerging VR Tools For AR/VR Technologies?
●
Unity
This
is an emerging tool for VR development that allows developers to develop games
& it also offers immersive VR experiences. It helps to level up the
end-user or player's experience. This is referred to as the cross-platform
gaming tool that is compatible with various platforms like Mobile, console, and
PC.
The
following platform offers captivating graphics and allows developers to develop
advanced VR applications like PlayStation VR, Swift, etc. In addition, the
gaming engine enables developers to develop robust gaming through Drag &
drop functionalities without integrating much code.
●
Blender
This
is another VR testing tool that developers use to develop animated and visual
effects. In addition, it is one of the open-source platforms allowing for
public use. It has the unique potential to develop 3D and 2D animations.
●
Unreal
Engine
The
following tools allow developers to create 3D content. The contents might
include films, simulations, games, etc. This tool offers immersive features
like advanced lighting, etc., to deliver immersive experiences. It supports
cross-platform compatibility, which allows developers to design VR apps that
work across different platforms and browsers like mobile and PC.
Which Are Emerging AR Tools For AR/VR Technologies?
●
Vuforia
This
is one of the popular AT testing tools that is compatible with iOS devices and
Android devices. If you want to launch software that has been chosen by
multiple people, then Vuforia is the right option. The following tool delivers
image recognition capabilities.
●
Apple
AR Kit
This
AR kit was launched in 2017 and is famous for developing multiple AR kits or
applications for Watch OS, Mac OS, and IOS. The following tool offers multiple
features, such as detecting surfaces, estimating light, etc.
●
Wikitude
This
tool is necessary for developing AR applications like any other AR testing.
This tool also covers extensive features that include image tracking,
geolocation, cloud recognition, etc.
Most
people have questions about how automation testing differs from traditional
testing. So, here we are mentioning the difference in terms of criteria. Let’s
take a clear view of it.
When talking about speed, automation testing works quicker than
manual testing since manual testing needs human resources. In terms of
investment, automation testing requires more charges than manual testing.
Similarly, automation testing also offers higher reliability than manual
testing. In manual testing, users have to invest in human resources, whereas,
in automation testing, users are required to invest in automation engineers and
testing tools.
If we compare both types of testing in terms of
cost-effectiveness, then we can say automation testing is more cost-effective.
The setup for test execution in manual testing takes less time, but automation
testing requires a complex test setup. When businesses choose automation
testing, there is no chance of late delivery. The test reports in manual
testing are mostly updated in the Word & Excel files.
It is not available in any other resource, whereas in automating
testing, the stakeholders must check the results of test execution by logging
into the automation system. In manual testing, no framework is used, but in
automation testing, things are completely changed. Automation testing is mostly
used for load, regression, and performance testing. Manual testing is used for
ad hoc, usability, and exploratory testing.
AR/VR technology is growing nowadays like never before. To integrate the testing frameworks
into development cycles here, you must follow some best practices:
●
Redefining
the requirement
Automated
testing is utilized effectively when the testing scenarios are extensive. It is
achieved by test automation with the scope of activities during the
specification phase.
●
Select
the ideal framework
The
testing automation includes writing test scripts. Select the automaton
framework that evaluates the testing efficiency. Integrating automation testing
with other 3rd party tools like CI/CD helps you with proper execution.
●
Utilizing
automation tools
Select
the automation tool based on your project scope. This allows the software to be
tested on different cross-platforms for product tests across multiple browser
platforms.
●
Complex
checking procedure
When
integrating frameworks based on the project requirement, incorporate strong
procedures for tracking the bugs.
●
Establish
Priorities
Prioritizing
the test case is another best practice for integrating frameworks in product
development. You must prioritize the test cases and execute them in the ideal
order.
●
Manage
the test reports
The
bugs which are tracked and rectified must be written on the test reports
regularly. Depending on the test reports, the test automation frameworks will
be adjusted.
Which Are the Best Practices for AR/VR Testing?
1.
Developing
a Comprehensive Testing Plan
The first step for AR/VR testing is determining the requirements
for your AR/VR project. Establish clear, quantifiable targets that are
consistent with user expectations as well as project goals. This clarity will
help your testing team navigate the development process. Prepare a clear and
comprehensive testing plan encompassing all your objectives and goals.
2.
Emphasizing
User-Centric Testing Approaches
In immersive technology, the user interface (UX) is crucial. Pay
particular attention to factors such as intuitive interfaces, realistic
connections, and comfortable wearability (for VR and MR). Offering an engaging
experience for users is an essential component. This is crucial in your testing
approach.
With a wide range of devices utilized by the AR industry,
cross-platform interoperability is critical. Your QA approach should guarantee
that the app delivers an identical user experience across devices and
platforms. Simulating real-world settings is critical for AR, VR, and MR
testing. This entails testing in multiple lighting settings, physical areas,
and user interactions to guarantee reliable performance in all scenarios.
3.
Continuous
Testing and Iteration Based On Feedback
The popularity of virtual reality, MR, & augmented reality
is quickly growing. Keep up with the newest innovations and apply them to the
quality assurance process. This might involve new testing techniques,
forthcoming hardware, or upgrades to software standards. Quality assurance is
an ongoing activity. Gather user and stakeholder input regularly. You must also
utilize it to fine-tune and develop your application. This method of iteration
is vital in a dynamic industry like AR or VR.
The tools for testing AR, VR, and MR technologies advance with
them. Automated testing tools solutions help improve your QA process by
generating reliable, repeatable testing scenarios. These technologies may
replicate a variety of scenarios and user interactions, allowing you to detect
and resolve issues more effectively. However, keep in consideration that
automated instruments are meant to enhance, not replace, human testing,
particularly in terms of user experience.
4.
Emerging
Trends in AR/VR technologies
Mixed reality has recently gained popularity in the healthcare,
education, retail, and tourist industries, even during the coronavirus
epidemic. For example, in healthcare, it has been tested or used in
virtual-home-based treatment and surgery. In this scenario, it is utilized in
conjunction with other technologies, including video, sensors, and displays.
Virtual reality might be widely used to treat individuals with
phobias as well as anxiety disorders. It is employed in autism therapy to
assist users in fostering interaction with other people. Patients suffering
from visual or cognitive problems are diagnosed using eye-tracking technology
based on augmented and virtual reality.
5.
Anticipated
Challenges in Testing Future AR/VR Applications
In AR/VR testing, user expectations and knowledge are important;
if there is a defect in the technology, the user may simply call it out via
their experience. For example, in a flight simulator, when you overlook even
the smallest detail, an expert pilot could point out the error.
AR/VR apps employ cutting-edge software, hardware, and firmware
that are not found in standard programs and do not contribute to the
traditional user interface. Our test strategy should include elements such as
longevity of batteries, usage of electricity, firmware, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
overheating, security, and others.
The AR/VR application constitutes a complete black-box test; the
input actions and output results may be unclear until all other aspects are
constructed around the user experience, and finding and fixing a flaw after all
that effort would be costly.
AR/VR Testing QA engineers may endure motion sickness, visual
impairment, and headaches. To avoid injuries, testing should last 30 minutes
and be observed during the entire period. With these dangers in mind, it is
anticipated the QA team will never be able to keep up the test backlog given
such a limited testing period, yet you cannot put our staff's health at risk
due to the deadline.
The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Enhancing Testing Strategies
AI in software testing greatly improves efficiency and speed. By
automating repeated processes, AI allows testers to concentrate on difficult
issues while reducing time spent on routine testing. Its capacity to rapidly
examine massive datasets enables speedier detection of patterns and
abnormalities. AI-powered testing solutions can adapt and profit from new data,
resulting in ongoing improvements in test coverage and accuracy.
This leads to faster problem identification, a quicker
introduction of quality programs, and shorter time-to-market, thus improving
the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the software development process.
Next-Level AR/VR: Achieve Mastery Through Testing Today!
AR & VR are two rapidly growing technologies. Testing AR VR application testing services requires collaborative efforts between the teams, including software engineers, project managers, UX designers, etc. If you want to test your AR/VR application, then it’s best to hire an IT team. By collaborating with the ideal team, you can create a successful roadmap for AR/VR application testing.
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