Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) enhances our environment by overlaying it with digital data and objects. AR is already transforming social media with Snap and Facebook at the forefront of AR modifications of selfies and landscape images. Both Apple and Google have developed innovative AR platforms (ARKit and ARCore) which are precursors the operating systems of future AR Glasses that will most likely be available in 2022.

In 2016, Pokemon Go became the first highly popular game to utilize a rudimentary form of augmented reality. Its ability to shape human behavior even then says much about the power of gaming as it does AR applications.

Augmented Reality is the opposite end in the spectrum of immersive technologies, linking digital information to specific activities or locations in the physical world. At its most basic, it requires physical proximity to a location, sometimes using markers or QR codes (though these have fallen out of favor). The mobile game Pokemon Go developed and published by Niantic in 2016 and Snap’s filters are examples of highly-popular basic augmented reality applications. They overlay digital content onto the user’s vision, superimposing images on the real world displayed on the user’s phone (Snap also sells low-cost AR glasses). 

More advanced forms of Augmented Reality use sophisticated displays and geo-location technologies to render digital data and images in heads-up displays designed for the construction, engineering, and the military. The use of augmented reality by the public and in education has grown rapidly with the introduction of innovative AR platforms (Apple’s ARKit and Google’s ARCore) which are precursors to the operating systems of future AR Glasses that will likely be available in 2022. The use of Augmented Reality remains limited by the need to use a handheld device (a smartphone or tablet) for AR experiences. AR glasses are available, but they are generally expensive and focus on specific use-cases (ex., Vuzix glasses for industrial applications and logistics). 

Augmented Reality Developments

Practical applications of Augmented Reality were initially developed for military heads-up displays, long before its appearance in consumer applications. Creating consumer-friendly AR Glasses remains a challenge due to design factors, lens technology, user interface, and battery life. Google’s Project Tango, which offered room-mapping of interior spaces, was originally designed as an AR platform only to be replaced by ARCore once the focus turned to the use of AR on Smartphones.

AR in Organizations and Education

Augmented Reality is already finding use in the work environment for eLearning training and retail applications in shopping. It has vast potential in K-12 and Higher Education learning environments but is still waiting on the release of user-friendly AR Glasses.