What differentiates ROS 2 from ROS 1?

The primary distinction between ROS 2 and ROS 1 lies in the improvements made in performance, security, and support for real-time applications. ROS 2 introduces enhancements that cater to a wider range of applications, particularly those that require more precise timing and robustness in communication. The architecture of ROS 2 has been designed to take advantage of modern multi-core processors and distributed systems, providing better performance for complex robotics tasks.

Security is also a critical consideration in the development of ROS 2, as it incorporates standardized security features that were not a primary focus in ROS 1. This makes ROS 2 more suitable for applications where safety and security are paramount, such as in industries like healthcare or autonomous vehicles.

Additionally, ROS 2's real-time capabilities allow it to meet stringent timing constraints, which is essential for applications that demand quick responses and high reliability, such as robotics used in manufacturing or autonomous navigation.

In contrast, while options related to visual programming or virtual reality may add valuable functionality in specific contexts, they do not define the core advancements that differentiate ROS 2 from ROS 1. Furthermore, compatibility with older systems is not a primary focus of ROS 2; rather, it aims to build upon newer practices and technologies within the robotics field.