Introduction to AR/VR Testing
We came so far from watching 3D movies to the AR/VR era. Technology has developed so much and we have landed in a place where we can simulate reality with the help of Virtual Reality(VR) and Augmented Reality(AR)
What is Augmented Reality:
It’s a technology that enhances the user’s perception and Interactions with their physical surroundings with the help of virtual elements. AR overlays the images, graphics, and data onto the user’s view of the physical world.
We can use the devices (such as AR lenses, smart displays, and even tablets, and phones) to experience AR technology.
What is Virtual Reality:
It creates an immersive and simulated artificial environment for the users, users believe the experience as it is a real environment.
Virtual elements can be displayed through various devices such as smart glasses, phones, tablets, headsets…etc. The three basic elements of AR/VR are visual, sound, and haptic feedback.
AR/VR Testing.
The role of the QA team comes into the picture here. It’s the process of evaluating and validating applications or experiences to ensure that everything is better. Here are a few types of testing to consider in AR/VR viz…
1. Functionality Testing: Ensures that all the features and functionalities of the application work as expected. This includes testing interactions, gestures, mapping, and inputs.
2. Performance Testing: This includes factors like latency rate, motion movements, and smoothness of the application.
3. Compatibility Testing: It ensures that the application works correctly across different devices, OS, and different versions.
4. Usability Testing: Its focuses on the user experience part within the AR/VR environment. It includes testing the ease of use, interaction, comfort, and clarity of the instructions.
5.AccessibilityTesting: Accessibility testing aims to ensure that the AR/VR application is usable by individuals with disabilities and of all age groups.
6. Hardware Testing: It ensures that certain hardware supports its features. Testing on the different hardware help to align the expectations with the requirements.
7. Immersive Testing: To check whether the user is getting the most realistic simulation experience, complete the sight and sound.
8. Security Testing: The application may handle sensitive data so it focuses on identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring data protection.
Testing Tools for AR/VR:
AR/VR applications don’t have standard tools like Selenium or Appium. We have to rely on -
1. Manual testing
2. By using Emulator/Simulator for AR
3. Using Real Devices
4. Native testing tools such as android studio, XCTest, and so on.
Test Scenarios for AR/VR Testing
Oculus Quest, Oculus Go, Oculus Rift, Htc Vive, Valve Index, Headset scanning usability and many more helps in testing the viewing experience on multiple devices mentioned.
Conclusion: When selecting devices for AR/VR testing, it’s important to consider factors such as target audience, platform popularity, performance requirements, and budget. Testing on a variety of devices helps ensure that your AR/VR application works well across different hardware configurations, operating systems, and form factors, providing a consistent and optimized experience to a broad user base.
