The AR/VR industry has articulated itself as the cornerstone of the technological universe. AR, VR, and MR are among the fastest-growing technologies offering groundbreaking opportunities for freshers and existing professionals. In the US, 93.3 million individuals used augmented reality (AR) at least once in 2021, and it’s expected to rise up to 110 million by 2023. Augmented and virtual reality revolutionize the gaming industry, healthcare, entertainment, and education which will create amazing opportunities for the future.
Billions of dollars are being invested in this technology to move toward the metaverse. Several tech giants like Microsoft, Meta, and Google are also entering the fray. As a result, there is a chance for skilled youngsters and professionals to seize opportunities.
To become an AR/VR developer, one must possess more than just designing and technical skills. Businessmen and gaming companies search for a blend of skills like 3D modeling, UX and mixed reality knowledge, and programming skills. Therefore, if you want to pursue a profession in augmented or virtual reality, you must possess these abilities.
Here are the top 7 skills required to become an expert in Augmented and Virtual reality.
- Programming Skills
The prerequisite technical skill to enter any tech-related employment is programming experience and a sufficient understanding of fundamental programming languages. Java, C#, and Swift are necessary languages for AR and VR development. Out of these languages, get proficiency in at least one. If you have completed your computer science degree, it is your foundation stone in this career. If you don’t, there are online courses in languages through which you can acquire good programming knowledge.
- Software development
Once you are done with programming skills, you will automatically shift toward development. In AR/VR applying all your skill set and knowledge to build an exceptional project is important. After language learning, you must shift your working perspective to software development skills. It gives you an opportunity to build and design a gaming application or software for companies. The simplest technique is to acquire knowledge in any profession only by practice. If you are not able to apply your learning while developing a real-world project, then it has no use. Therefore, the hours you spend on your work sharpen your skills more.
- Basics of XR (Extended Reality)
Sound knowledge of XR is the requisite skill to know this technology more deeply. Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality is the main types of extended reality, which form the core of this vast field. Understanding all these domains helps you to gain expertise in this career. Knowledge of XR enables us to understand the difference between the real and virtual world while developing.
- 3D Animation and Modeling Skills
Generally, VR developers in the gaming industry use 3D animation tools like Unreal and Unity. These software tools create prototypes of models and designs to show an employer or client. So, VR developers must know and understand the functions of these tools and textures, graphics, components, etc., to develop virtual reality models.
- UX design knowledge
Knowledge of UX design in AR/VR development is an essential skill for building an efficient and engaging website, application, or software. You have seen many websites with different designs which are based on user experience and behavioral patterns of users. Thus ar/VR developers require this skill to pinpoint the interests of users and clients. Current trends and sufficient UX practices help VR developers to create and build an engaging gaming platform for clients and companies.
- Machine learning skills
Machine learning is used in Augmented reality, which gives a more immersive experience to users in the virtual world. Implementing machine learning in virtual reality improves image quality and video rendering, which significantly affects the user experience. It also performs an important function in face recognition for AR applications.
- Designer mindset
If you want to make your career in AR/VR then you must have creative thinking along with some mandatory skills. You must have an interest in graphics design and creating models for users. This assists you in working and designing effortlessly with joy and satisfaction. Creative ideas and thought processes will give strength to your work and projects, which will raise your overall performance in the company. After all, your passion for work will define your career growth.
Bottom Line
The augmented reality/virtual reality industry is constantly evolving. To become an expert in this field, you must update your knowledge and practice these essential skills regularly. Sometimes it is difficult to immerse into this field without a programming background, but with dedication and desire, you can build a career out of it. I hope you have now gained enough knowledge about the skills required for AR/VR career, earn certification in different skills and learn them thoroughly to improve your abilities.