Virtual reality is making waves in all kinds of industries, from education to business. But with that shift comes a whole new set of terms that make engaging with this revolutionary technology more difficult than it needs to be.
If you’ve ever stumbled across words like “XR MDM” or “tethered VR” and thought, “What does that even mean?”—you’re not alone. In this ArborXR guide, we break down 17 essential VR terms to help you get a grip on the basics and beyond.
Top 17 VR Terms You Should Be Familiar With
- Virtual Reality (VR)
- Augmented Reality (AR)
- Mixed Reality (MR)
- Extended Reality (XR)
- WebXR
- VR Peripherals
- VR MDM
- Kiosk Mode
- Sideloading
- VR Single Sign-On (SSO)
- Custom Home Environment
- VR ISVs
- Pass-Through Mode
- Degree of Freedom (DoF)
- Field of View (FoV)
- Tethered and Standalone VR Devices
- Latency
1. Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality (VR) immerses you into a fully digital world where you can look around, interact, and feel like you’re really there. VR headsets — like the Meta Quest, Lenovo ThinkReality VRX, or PICO 4E—completely block out your real surroundings and replace them with a virtual experience.
2. Augmented Reality (AR)
Unlike VR, AR doesn’t create a new environment. Instead, it adds digital elements like text or 3D models to your existing environment. You can experience AR through smartphones or specialized glasses like the Magic Leap 2.
3. Mixed Reality (MR)
As the name suggests, MR blends AR (digital overlays) and VR (interactivity) elements. It lets you place digital objects into your surroundings and interact with them like they’re naturally part of your environment.
You’ve probably seen those popular Apple Vision Pro ads (like the one above)—yes, that’s a great example of MR in action
4. Extended Reality (XR)
Extended reality (XR) is an umbrella term encompassing all immersive technologies.
XR (currently) includes virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). This catch-all term is useful when discussing the broader landscape of immersive tech without specifying a particular type.
5. WebXR
WebXR is a set of APIs that enable VR and AR experiences in web browsers. This technology allows users to access immersive content without downloading specialized apps.
6. VR Peripherals
VR peripherals are additional hardware that enhance virtual reality experiences. These accessories go beyond the basic headset and controllers, adding more interactivity and realism.
Popular VR peripherals include:
- Haptic gloves
- Motion trackers
- VR vests
- 3D sound systems
- Haptic suits
Each peripheral type offers unique ways to interact with or feel the virtual environment.
7. VR MDM
VR MDM (Device Management) solutions are platforms built to manage, monitor, and control virtual reality devices from a distance. A great example of this? ArborXR.
ArborXR is an XR-focused MDM that lets you:
- Manage and deploy headsets remotely
- Install apps and updates without needing physical access
- Deliver multi-app or single-app kiosk experiences for your users
And that brings us to our next term…
8. Kiosk Mode
Kiosk mode is an MDM or device launcher feature that restricts a device to run only specific app(s). In the context of XR, kiosk mode restricts headsets to run only specific app(s).
This feature is ideal for:
- Minimizing distractions during VR training
- Preventing access to sensitive information in public settings
With ArborXR, you can choose between single-app or multi-app kiosk mode, meaning you can either restrict users to just one app or allow them access to multiple apps. Plus, you can control which additional features they can access in kiosk mode, like WiFi settings and more.
9. Sideloading
Sideloading is the process of installing apps or content onto a VR device from a source outside the official store. This is common when apps aren’t available in the official app stores or when you need to install custom or proprietary software directly onto devices.
Some headsets, like the Pico 4E, allow sideloading right out of the box. But if you want more flexibility—especially if you’re sideloading across multiple headsets or at scale—you’ll likely need a VR MDM like ArborXR to help manage it.
10. VR Single Sign-On (SSO)
VR SSO is a user authentication process that allows users to log in to the VR experience using one set of credentials.
11. Custom Home Environment
A custom home environment allows users to personalize the initial VR interface they see when launching their headset. Instead of a default environment, users can design their own virtual “home” space.
For example, with ArborXR Home, you can create an immersive 3D home environment, which features your branding elements—logo, colors, and more.
12. VR ISVs (Independent Software Vendors)
ISVs, or content developers, are third-party software providers that create apps specifically for BR headsets. Depending on your needs, you can work with them to develop custom content or to source off-the-shelf content.
Are you looking for a content provider for your VR project? Our XR directory is a great resource for finding vetted enterprise and educational developers.
13. Pass-Through Mode
This feature lets you see the real world through your headsets using external cameras. It’s great for checking your surroundings without taking off the headset or for mixing virtual and physical spaces in AR or MR experiences.
14. Degree of Freedom (DoF)
DoF refers to the number of directions a user can move or interact in a virtual environment. There are two options—3 DoF and 6 DoF:
- 3 DoF lets you move your head in rotational directions (up/down, left/right, and tilt).
- 6 DoF adds full movement tracking, allowing you to move your entire body forward/backward, up/down, and left/right.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our 6 DoF vs. 3 DoF headset guide for more details.
15. Field of View (FoV)
FoV is the extent of the virtual world visible through a VR headset. A bigger FoV means a more immersive experience and a wider view of the digital environment.
16. Tethered and Standalone VR Devices
Tethered VR systems are connected to a PC or console with cables. While this setup delivers more powerful graphics and processing, it limits your mobility.
Standalone VR devices, like the Meta Quest headsets, don’t need to be connected to external hardware. Built-in processors and batteries give users more freedom to move around.
17. Latency
Latency is the delay between your actions and the system’s response in VR. High latency can feel uncomfortable and break the immersion, so lower latency is key for a smooth experience.
Get the Most Out of Enterprise VR With ArborXR
VR comes with its fair share of complex (and sometimes confusing) terms—but we’re confident we’ve cleared up a few of the most common ones you’re likely to encounter.
By now, you probably also see why a VR MDM like ArborXR is a must if you’re gearing up for any VR project. To recap, ArborXR makes it super easy to manage and deploy headsets remotely, install apps and updates at scale, and enable multi-app or single-app kiosk modes.Want to see ArborXR in action? Start your 30-day free trial today!
