15+ Virtual and Augmented Reality Books for Free! [PDF]

If you want to know details about the technologies that are revolutionizing the world, we invite you to read our collection of virtual and augmented reality books in PDF format.

On the one hand, virtual reality offers the possibility of creating a whole digital or virtual world out of nothing, including everything the user or designer desires. 

Augmented reality adds virtual components or elements to the real environment, through images or graphics.

All these realities are made possible thanks to the technological devices developed or created for this purpose; these are the ones that make it possible for us to interact with our environment more creatively and attractively. 

These new technologies have made inroads in different sectors such as culture, marketing, tourism, events, etc., all this and more can be found in our more than 45 free books and articles on virtual and augmented reality in PDF format.

Virtual and Augmented Reality Books

#1 Virtual reality

Extension: PDF | 220 pages

Virtual reality by Steven M. LaValle is a comprehensive guide covering the foundations and advanced concepts of VR. It delivers a structured exploration of VR principles, suitable for both students and industry professionals seeking deeper understanding.

#2 Virtual Reality – Past, Present, and Future

Extension: PDF | 31 pages

Virtual Reality - Past, Present, and Future por Enrico Gobbetti and Riccardo Scateni explores the evolution of VR, covering its history, technological demands, and available solutions. This PDF offers a valuable overview of VR's potential and limitations, making it essential for understanding the field.

#3 Virtual Reality – History, Applications, Technology and Future

Extension: PDF | 72 pages

Virtual Reality - History, Applications, Technology and Future por Tomasz Mazuryk and Michael Gervautz is a comprehensive overview of VR fundamentals. It explores the history, core concepts, applications, and technical components essential for understanding virtual reality.

#4 Privacy of Virtual Reality – Our Future in the Metaverse and Beyond

Extension: PDF | 102 pages

Privacy of Virtual Reality - Our Future in the Metaverse and Beyond por Girard Kelly, Jeff Graham, Jill Bronfman and Steve Garton analyzes the privacy risks associated with VR technology, particularly regarding data collection. It highlights the potential harms to users, especially children, making it essential reading for understanding the ethical...

#5 Introduction to virtual reality

Extension: PDF | 19 pages

Introduction to virtual reality por Gilson Giraldi, Rodrigo Silva and Jauvane C. De Oliveira presents an overview of basic VR concepts, devices and applications. Explore the fundamental building blocks of VR technology and its diverse applications across scientific visualization, medicine, and engineering.

#6 Exploring the benefits of the virtual reality technologies for assembly retrieval applications

Extension: PDF | 19 pages

Exploring the benefits of the virtual reality technologies for assembly retrieval applications por Katia Lupinetti, Brigida Bonino, Franca Giannin and Marina Monti introduces a VR system for visualizing CAD assembly retrieval results, enhancing understanding through 3D space and natural interaction. This paper offers insights into improving CAD mod...

#7 The Advantages of Virtual Reality in Skill Development – Training Based on Project Comparison (2009-2018)

Extension: PDF | 11 pages

The Advantages of Virtual Reality in Skill Development - Training Based on Project Comparison (2009-2018) por Sunny Thapa Magar and Hae Jung Suk analyzes VR's effectiveness in skill development across various fields. It highlights VR's advantages, like safety and reversibility, making it valuable for those exploring VR in training.

#8 Augmented Reality: An Overview

Extension: PDF | 45 pages

Augmented Reality: An Overview por Julie Carmigniani and Borko Furht introduces Augmented Reality (AR) defining it and exploring its history. It also covers computer vision methods, AR technologies, and mobile applications making it a solid introduction.

#9 An Overview of Augmented Reality

Extension: PDF | 15 pages

An Overview of Augmented Reality por Fabio Arena, Mario Collotta, Giovanni Pau and Francesco Termine provides a concise introduction to AR, covering its evolution, applications, and components. It motivates readers to explore AR's potential by highlighting its relevance to Industry 4.0 and future technological advancements.

#10 Introduction to Augmented Reality

Extension: PDF | 11 pages

Introduction to Augmented Reality por R. Silva, J. C. Oliveira and G. A. Giraldi provides a concise overview of Augmented Reality (AR) concepts, applications and technologies. This PDF serves as a foundational resource for grasping the core principles of AR.

#11 Augmented Reality + Virtual Reality

Extension: PDF | 40 pages

Augmented Reality + Virtual Reality por Joseph Jerome and Jeremy Greenberg dives into the privacy and autonomy considerations within the emerging immersive digital worlds. It highlights potential risks and offers recommendations for policymakers and developers.

#12 Taxonomy of Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications in Education

Extension: PDF | 24 pages

Taxonomy of Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications in Education por Jiri Motejlek and Esat Alpay presents a structured methodology for classifying VR/AR applications in education. This paper offers a novel taxonomy to enhance clarity and facilitate communication between educators, developers, and researchers.

#13 Virtual and Augmented Reality in Construction Field

Extension: PDF | 102 pages

Virtual and Augmented Reality in Construction Field por Mohamed Abdelaziz explores VR/AR's theoretical and practical applications in construction, focusing on BIM integration and visualization. It highlights VR/AR's role in project management, cost reduction, and safety, showcasing its value in the AEC industry.

#14 Virtual and Augmented Reality Concepts

Extension: PDF | 21 pages

Virtual and Augmented Reality Concepts por Mustafa AKIN and Yusuf UZUN introduces the fundamental concepts of VR and AR, exploring their applications across various sectors. This concise chapter provides a valuable overview for anyone seeking to understand the basics and potential of these technologies.

#15 Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and their effect on learning style in the creative design process

Extension: PDF | 21 pages

Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and their effect on learning style in the creative design process por Tilanka Chandrasekera and So-Yeon Yoon explores the impact of AR/VR interfaces on the creative design process, considering user learning styles. It offers insights into how these technologies can be better tailored for diverse learners in design...

#16 Virtual and augmented reality application in production engineering teaching-learning processes

Extension: PDF | 16 pages

Virtual and augmented reality application in production engineering teaching-learning processes por Fernando Elemar Vicente dos Anjosa and others presents a systematic literature review on the application of VR/AR in production engineering education, highlighting application gaps and potential impacts. It's a valuable resource for educators and res...

Virtual and Augmented Reality Technology Books

Virtual and augmented reality technology is constantly evolving and offers a wide variety of devices, hardware, and software to enhance the user experience. 

Virtual and augmented reality devices, such as goggles, headsets, helmets, gloves, and full-body suits, allow the user to immerse themselves in a virtual world and add virtual elements to the real world.

These devices use sensor technology to detect the user’s movements and provide an immersive and realistic experience. Learn more with the following books and articles in PDF format.

#1 Skin Electronics: Next-Generation Device Platform for Virtual and Augmented Reality

Extension: PDF | 35 pages

Skin Electronics: Next-Generation Device Platform for Virtual and Augmented Reality por Jae Joon Kim, Yan Wang, Haoyang Wang and others is an in-depth exploration of skin-mounted electronics for VR/AR applications. This review offers valuable insights into materials, structures, and functionalities, highlighting their potential to revolutionize imm...

#2 Immersive Interconnected Virtual and Augmented Reality – A 5G and IoT perspective

Extension: PDF | 33 pages

Immersive Interconnected Virtual and Augmented Reality - A 5G and IoT perspective por Maria Torres Vega, Christos Liaskos and others explores the technical challenges of enabling interconnected AR/VR experiences through 5G and IoT. It highlights the stringent latency requirements and the need for advances in network infrastructure and device integr...

#3 Augmented reality and virtual reality displays – Perspectives and challenges

Extension: PDF | 26 pages

Augmented reality and virtual reality displays - Perspectives and challenges por Tao Zhan, Kun Yin, Jianghao Xiong, Ziqian He and Shin-Tson Wu provides an overview of the challenges in AR/VR displays, focusing on optical technologies and visual requirements. It explores potential solutions for improved resolution, field of view, and visual comfort,...

#4 Augmented Reality Smart Glasses: Definition, Conceptual Insights, and Managerial Importance

Extension: PDF | 21 pages

Augmented Reality Smart Glasses: Definition, Conceptual Insights, and Managerial Importance por Philipp A. Rauschnabel, Alexander Brem, Young K. Ro explores the rise of wearable AR devices, defining smart glasses and their potential. It offers insights for managers and researchers on applied technology and how smart glasses can increase firm value.

#5 Understanding Virtual Reality Technology – Advances and Applications

Extension: PDF | 20 pages

Understanding Virtual Reality Technology - Advances and Applications por Moses Okechukwu Onyesolu and Felista Udoka Eze explores VR technology, from its historical roots to its applications. A valuable read for understanding VR's impact across diverse sectors.

#6 General-purpose modular hardware and software framework for mobile outdoor augmented reality applications in engineering

Extension: PDF | 16 pages

General-purpose modular hardware and software framework for mobile outdoor augmented reality applications in engineering por Amir H. Behzadan, Brian W. Timm B. And Vineet R. Kamat presents a modular AR framework. It tackles repetitive visualization challenges, offering reusable hardware and software for engineering AR applications.

#7 Near-Sensor Distributed DNN Processing for Augmented and Virtual Reality

Extension: PDF | 14 pages

Near-Sensor Distributed DNN Processing for Augmented and Virtual Reality by Reid Pinkham, Andrew Berkovich and Zhengya Zhang explores optimizing Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) on AR/VR devices using on-sensor and edge processors to minimize energy and latency. This research provides valuable insights for designing efficient and high-performance AR/VR ...

#8 Glove for Augmented and Virtual Reality

Extension: PDF | 13 pages

Glove for Augmented and Virtual Reality by Nikita Katusin details the development of a haptic feedback glove for interaction with 3D computer models using IMU sensors. This research offers insights into creating more intuitive and flexible interfaces for AR/VR applications.

#9 Virtual Reality Technology in Teaching Computer Hardware – A Prototype and Assessment from User Perspectives (Article)

Extension: PDF | 9 pages

Virtual Reality Technology in Teaching Computer Hardware - A Prototype and Assessment from User Perspectives (Article) por Heba Fasihuddin P. explores VR's potential in teaching computer hardware, especially in resource-limited schools. It offers insights into usability and acceptance of a VR prototype, making it a valuable read for educators.

#10 Sensor Fusion for Augmented Reality (Article)

Extension: PDF | 7 pages

Sensor Fusion for Augmented Reality (Article) por J.D. Ho, Thomas B. Schön, F. Gustafsson and Per Slycke presents a Kalman filter framework combining inertial sensor data and computer vision for robust camera pose estimation. This paper offers valuable insights into sensor fusion techniques relevant to AR applications.

Books on Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications

Virtual and augmented reality is transforming the way we interact with the world around us and offer a wide variety of applications in different industries. 

In the entertainment sector, virtual reality is being used to create immersive experiences in video games and movies, while augmented reality is enhancing the viewing experience at sporting events and concerts.

In medicine, these technologies are being used to train healthcare professionals and improve the accuracy of surgical procedures. We invite you to learn a little more about the applications of virtual and augmented reality with the following free books and articles.

#1 Application of Virtual Reality to the Engineering Design Process

Extension: PDF | 108 pages

Application of Virtual Reality to the Engineering Design Process por Ralph Grzybek, Greg Pelland and Maricella Ramirez is about utilizing VR to enhance engineering design. This paper explores the potential of VR in streamlining design processes and presents compelling case studies.

#2 Virtual Reality and Its Application in Education

Extension: PDF | 102 pages

Virtual Reality and Its Application in Education por Dragan Cvetkovic offers a comprehensive look into VR technology, focusing on its educational applications. Explore definitions, devices, and design principles, highlighting its value in technology education.

#3 Design Architecture in Virtual Reality

Extension: PDF | 94 pages

Design Architecture in Virtual Reality by Anisha Sankar explores VR integration in architectural design. It assesses VR's practicality and potential impact on design thinking.

#4 The use of virtual reality to increase efficiency and profitability in different industries and functions

Extension: PDF | 51 pages

The use of virtual reality to increase efficiency and profitability in different industries and functions by Riia-Leena Wallin examines VR's current business applications and future potential. It explores VR's advantages, disadvantages, and key industries for implementation, providing valuable insights into this evolving technology.

#5 Virtual Reality In Architecture

Extension: PDF | 42 pages

Virtual Reality In Architecture por Ahmad Al-Falahi explores the technical challenges of VR adoption in architecture through interviews with Swedish architects. It highlights limitations and proposes solutions, offering insights into future VR applications for design and communication.

#6 Overview: Virtual Reality in Medicine

Extension: PDF | 37 pages

Overview: Virtual Reality in Medicine por Pensieri Claudio & Pennacchini Maddalena explores the applications of VR in medicine. It highlights the potential of VR for communication, education, surgical simulation, and therapy.

#7 Teaching Methodology for Understanding Virtual Reality and Application Development in Engineering Major

Extension: PDF | 22 pages

Teaching Methodology for Understanding Virtual Reality and Application Development in Engineering Major por Jihyung Kim, Kyeong-sun Kim, Jonghyeon Ka and Wooksung Kim proposes a VR course for engineering students, covering hardware and software aspects of VR technology. It offers a project-based learning approach designed to improve application dev...

#8 Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications for Environmental Science Education and Training

Extension: PDF | 20 pages

Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications for Environmental Science Education and Training por Yusuf Sermet and Ibrahim Demir explores the use of AR/VR in environmental science, specifically for disaster management and education. It highlights innovative applications for simulation, data retrieval, and public awareness, showcasing the potential of...

#9 Virtual and Augmented Reality in Architectural Design and Education – An Immersive Multimodal Platform to Support Architectural Pedagogy

Extension: PDF | 20 pages

Virtual and Augmented Reality in Architectural Design and Education - An Immersive Multimodal Platform to Support Architectural Pedagogy por Julie Milovanovic and others explores VR/AR applications in architecture, surveying devices and research projects. It offers valuable insights into collaborative design and pedagogical implementation, making i...

#10 Virtual Reality in Education

Extension: PDF | 19 pages

Virtual Reality in Education by Chris Christou explores the use of VR for visualizing and interacting with environments, enhancing learning through multi-sensory experiences. Discover how VR revolutionizes education by enabling active learning from experiences.

#11 Creation of Virtual Reality for Education Purposes

Extension: PDF | 19 pages

Creation of Virtual Reality for Education Purposes por Peter Kuna, Alena Hasková and Lubos Borza explores the use of virtual reality systems in vocational education, focusing on virtual excursions. It analyzes the suitability of VR tools for industrial practice apprenticeships, offering insights into enhancing technology-enhanced learning.

#12 The Benefits of Virtual Reality in Education – A Comparison Study

Extension: PDF | 15 pages

The Benefits of Virtual Reality in Education - A Comparison Study por Mustafa Hussein and Carl Nätterdal explores the potential of VR in education through a comparison with mobile applications. This paper showcases how VR can enhance learning, particularly in interactive subjects, offering a more immersive and engaging experience.

#13 AR-based Modern Healthcare: A Review

Extension: PDF | 14 pages

AR-based Modern Healthcare: A Review por Jinat Ara, Hanif Bhuiyan and others reviews the recent advances in Augmented Reality (AR) within healthcare, focusing on its impact on patient care, efficiency, and cost reduction. It explores AR-based healthcare solutions, addressing challenges and proposing security models, making it a valuable read for th...

#14 The Application of Virtual Reality in Engineering Education

Extension: PDF | 14 pages

The Application of Virtual Reality in Engineering Education por Maged Soliman, Apostolos Pesyridis and others argues that VR is an excellent tool in engineering education, enhancing student understanding and reducing institutional costs. This review identifies gaps in VR educational design and suggests integrating learning theories for improved out...

#15 Virtual reality in architectural design

Extension: PDF | 11 pages

Virtual reality in architectural design por Chiu-Shui Chan explores the integration of VR in architectural design processes, highlighting its potential to revolutionize interaction with computers and enhance design visualization. This paper provides valuable insights into the evolution and application of VR, making it essential reading for those in...

#16 Entertainment applications of human-scale virtual reality systems (Article)

Extension: PDF | 9 pages

Entertainment applications of human-scale virtual reality systems (Article) por Akihiko Shirai, Kiichi Kobayashi, Masahiro Kawakita and others, presents three VR applications: a tangible playroom for kids, a labyrinth walker, and virtual TV sets. It explores the possibilities of human-scale VR, offering insights into its technology and interactive ...

Virtual and Augmented Reality Development Books

Virtual and augmented reality development requires the use of specific development tools and platforms, as well as knowledge of specialized programming languages and design techniques.

Development tools and platforms are designed to enable developers to create high-quality virtual and augmented reality experiences more efficiently.

For you to learn more and have examples of developments, we provide you with books and articles on virtual and augmented reality development.

#1 Developing virtual reality applications: The design and evaluation of virtual reality development tools for novice users.

Extension: PDF | 107 pages

Developing virtual reality applications: The design and evaluation of virtual reality development tools for novice users. by David J. Kabala introduces tools for VR application creation, emphasizing ease of use for novices. It explores the KabalaEngine and GUI development for creating immersive experiences, a key contribution to VR accessibility.

#2 The AR/VR Technology Stack: A Central Repository of Software Development Libraries, Platforms, and Tools

Extension: PDF | 23 pages

The AR/VR Technology Stack: A Central Repository of Software Development Libraries, Platforms, and Tools by Jasmine Roberts is a compilation of software development resources for AR/VR. It offers a categorized overview of tools, SDKs, and APIs crucial for building immersive experiences.

#3 Virtual Reality in Design Processes – a literature review of benefits, challenges, and potentials

Extension: PDF | 20 pages

Virtual Reality in Design Processes - a literature review of benefits, challenges, and potentials por Ingri Strand examines the use of VR in architecture, design, and engineering, highlighting benefits and challenges. It discusses how VR can be implemented in education, offering insights for those interested in VR's application in design.

#4 AR/VR Development Landscape

Extension: PDF | 15 pages

AR/VR Development Landscape por Chandrama Prasad, Nilima Nikam, Yougansh Thakur, Basilio D’souza, and Ninad Pandey explores various SDKs and development tools essential for AR/VR app creation. It provides insights into choosing the right SDKs based on application requirements, making it a valuable resource for developers.

#5 A Review of Virtual Reality-Based Language Learning Apps

Extension: PDF | 13 pages

A Review of Virtual Reality-Based Language Learning Apps por Anke Berns and Salvador Reyes-Sánchez explores the use of VR in language learning by reviewing popular VR apps. It reveals trends and challenges in VRALL, providing valuable insights for educators and researchers.

#6 A Survey Study to Understand Industry Vision for Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications in Design and Construction

Extension: PDF | 32 pages

A Survey Study to Understand Industry Vision for Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications in Design and Construction por Mojtaba Noghabae and others, analyzes the adoption and future of AR/VR in the AEC industry. It highlights the industry's vision, potential savings, and limitations, making it valuable for understanding AR/VR trends.

Virtual and Augmented Reality Experience Design Books

The design of virtual and augmented reality experiences is key to offering users an immersive and engaging experience. In designing these experiences, it is important to consider user interaction with the virtual or augmented environment, as well as accessibility and usability.

Designing virtual and augmented reality experiences also involves creating realistic and detailed virtual environments and objects that allow users to interact with them naturally and fluidly.

If you are interested in learning more about virtual and augmented reality experience design, we recommend you explore the following free books and articles in PDF format.

#1 A classification schema for designing augmented reality experiences

Extension: PDF | 26 pages

A classification schema for designing augmented reality experiences por Shaun Bangay and Sophie McKenzie provides a valuable framework for understanding and categorizing design choices in AR experiences. It offers insights into creating engaging and innovative AR applications across various domains.

#2 How to design compelling Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality experience?

Extension: PDF | 18 pages

How to design compelling Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality experience? by Simon Richir, Philippe Fuchs, Domitile Lourdeaux and others is a guide on designing compelling VR/AR experiences using the I2I method. It explores the design process, human-centered design, and the importance of immersion and interaction, making it a valuable resource for ...

#3 A Review of Augmented Reality Research for Design Practice – Looking to the Future

Extension: PDF | 14 pages

A Review of Augmented Reality Research for Design Practice - Looking to the Future by Lorenzo Giunta, Elies Dekoninck, James Gopsill, Jamie O’Hare. This paper reviews AR technologies in design, identifying trends and gaps. It highlights areas for further development to enhance the acceptance of AR in design.

#4 User Experience Design with Augmented Reality (AR) (Article)

Extension: PDF | 10 pages

User Experience Design with Augmented Reality (AR) (Article) por Stefan Stumpp, Tobias Knopf and Daniel Michelis. This paper explores the impact of AR on user experience by comparing the IKEA Place app with the IKEA website. Discover how AR enhances brand perception and offers valuable insights for designing innovative digital touchpoints.

Here ends our selection of free Virtual and Augmented Reality Books in PDF format. We hope you liked it and already have your next book!

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