Definition of Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented reality (AR) is an experience to enhance the visualization of things in the physical world, it is done with the help of computer-generated graphics, sound, video, and/or GPS overlay. These changes respond to the user in real-time and give an interesting demonstration of movements of objects to the user. In simpler words, AR enables us to see real-life environments right in front of us.
Where can you see AR in Real life?
All of you might have experience AR in Snapchat lenses or filters. AR is also used in some apps which can help you see how an attire or makeup would look on you. Although AR is still developing, it has amazing uses as of now and it will soon develop even more to benefit industries and people.
Another popular example of AR, was a game – Pokémon Go, as users navigate, they were able to see Pokémon characters appear on their screen, which they were able to capture by throwing poke balls at them. Here AR was used in superimposition to navigation and the game was designed. It was a massive hit. It encouraged people to travel a lot and enjoy the game at the same time.
Another example of AR includes the cricket matches, now and then you get to see some lines and graphs on the screen to demonstrate various things and give awesome visualizations. The Furniture giant IKEA also offers an AR app that can help you to see how every piece of furniture could look at your home. You can easily judge the look, fit, and space constraints via this app.
Difference between AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality)
Virtual reality is also one of the words which you might have heard very often, but do not confuse it with AR. In AR the user’s physical environment is enhanced in real time, AR can be experienced with the use of simple devices like your smartphone. Whereas Virtual reality is completely submersive, the user has to wear a goggle or to be specific VR headset. In VR, the user is completely cut off from the real world and taken thoroughly into a fictional world. Both VR and AR enhances the user experience, and it is used in different places.
How does AR works?
AR uses computer vision, depth analysis, and the use of the camera to collect and process the content and present it to the user. AR device at first identifies the physical object then the software analyses it and downloads images from the cloud. AR represents data in 3D form rather than a 2D demonstration of data or image.
Types of Augmented Reality :
Projection based AR
This type of AR simply works as a projector, the image is rendered to the user. For example, the projection of keyboard for use, or a watch dialer projected on hand. This means physically the object is not present but its image is rendered to the user. Such type of AR can be used to understand spatial visualization, like how the sofa would look in your living room. Analysis of space can be done easily with this type of AR.
Recognition based AR
This is just like scanning a QR code and the object would appear to the user. This AI system will recognize a marker and replace it with an appropriate object.
Location-based AR
As the name suggests, this type of AR will work in coordination with the GPS, accelerometer, and compass of your smartphone, it will give you enhanced information based on the location you are visiting. This would be very interesting to use when you explore new places.
Outlining AR
This type of AR helps you to evaluate space with the help of outlines and guidelines to evaluate things in a better way. Like when you want to park the vehicle in reverse you get guidelines to move the car. Or when in a cricket match you can get to know how each ball was bowled and how far was it hit.
Superimposition based AR
Superimposition simply means keeping one image on the other and comparing it. This type of AR can help in things like X-ray vision or identifying the flaws by comparing with the actual or perfect specimen.
Advantages of Augmented Reality
- AR allows to offer great learning; the visualizations help the user to learn in a better way.
- It can merge the real and virtual world in the best way possible.
- It is used widely in many industries to grow their business.
- Saves money by testing the critical things in AR rather than directly applying it in the real world – like a driving simulator, War simulator- these kinds of things train the users without any risk.
- Very helpful in the gaming industry as the developer can offer a real experience to the user.
- People can share experiences over long distances.
Disadvantages of Augmented Reality
- AR devices are expensive, the AR technology takes lots of time money and effort to develop and maintain
- AR lacks privacy, although it can be used for mass training, when it comes to a personalized experience, it can be an issue.
- Users may forget to experience the actual scenarios and may become addicted to AR technology, none of the technology can ever eliminate the need for actual conversation and experiences.
- Lack of privacy and security is also one of the main drawbacks of AR. People may not be so comfortable sharing lots of information with strangers.
- Addiction to AR can cause issues like eye strain and obesity.
AR will gradually be a part of our daily life. Despite a few drawbacks, it’s not able to know that AR can enhance your experience manifold. AR will evolve a lot and will be widely used in industries like medical, real estate, retail, manufacturing, and many others. Doctors can save so many patients, in retail it can provide an immersive experience and increase the chance of selling the product. AR will not only be used for entertainment but can serve the higher purpose of deriving proper business decisions.
Ajay Rathod
Hi!! I am Ajay, and I’m a passionate blogger who loves to write about a variety of topics. I’m always eager to explore new ideas and share my thoughts with others.