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 2020.

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 development

Practical applications of AR were initially developed for military heads-up displays, long before its appearance in consumer applications. Creating consumer-friendly AR Glasses has remained a challenge due to design factors, lens technology, and battery life. In the meantime, Google Cardboard-like DIY kits are available along with a few inexpensive headsets that rely on our Smartphones. 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.