Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) is a live view of our real-world environment augmented by digital data including sound, text, media and GPS. It combines digital information and media with our real-world environment. Augmented reality always includes some access to the actual environment while virtual reality blocks it out with a simulated environment. Initially used in military heads-up displays, it is now showing up in a range of consumer applications. It’s use in the work environment for elearning training and retail applications in shopping. Its potential use in learning are readily apparent. In 2016, Pokemon Go became the first highly popular game to utilize rudimentary augmented reality.
Augmented Reality developments
Forthcoming developments in the field will dramatically change how it used. Numerous designs for AR glasses are coming to the market. Projects such as Google Tango will allow room-mapping of interior spaces. It is anticipated that by 2020, AR will be used far more extensively than virtual reality.

Augmented reality is closely related to developments in Mixed Reality where devices such as Microsoft HoloLens and Meta Smartglasses integrate virtual objects or holograms into the environment.