Augmented Reality (AR) overlays computer-generated graphics, audio, or haptic input on the real world. AR can be experienced on smartphones, tablets, HMDs, and glasses. In recent years, it has been one of the most promising areas of innovation, with applications in entertainment, education, healthcare, and retail.
Brief History of AR Technology
AR technology dates from the 1960s. Harvard University invented “Sword of Damocles” AR in 1968. A translucent screen displayed crude 3D images.
Marker-based AR became popular in the 1990s. Digital content was overlaid on the actual world using QR codes. Marker-based AR enables interactive advertising, gaming, and training.
Recent advances in sensor technology, computer vision, and machine learning have enabled marker-less AR. AR’s use in medical, construction, and manufacturing has increased.
Using AR
Sensors, cameras, screens, and software overlay digital information on the real world in AR. The camera captures the user’s surroundings, while GPS, accelerometers, and gyroscopes detect their position and movements. The user’s device displays digital material generated and rendered by software using this data.
Various Uses for Augmented Reality
AR technologies use diverse methods to overlay digital content on the actual environment and among them are:
- Marker-based: Digital content is triggered by physical markers like QR codes, barcodes, or photographs.
- Marker less: Sensors and cameras recognize and track items in the real world without physical markers.
- Projection-based: Digital content is projected onto real-world items for an interactive experience.
Entertainment
AR is used in gaming, sports, and concerts. Games like Pokemon Go and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite use marker-based AR to overlay virtual characters and objects on real-world landscapes. This technology provides real-time data and analysis for sports players and coaches. By overlaying digital graphics and audio over live performances, AR technology may produce immersive concerts.
Training and Education
In medicine, language instruction, and industrial training, AR is becoming more popular. The simulations can instruct medical personnel in surgery in a virtual environment. Users can practice speaking and listening with virtual avatars in AR language learning.
In industrial training, AR may imitate real-world circumstances to help workers practice and improve.
Augmented Reality has grown into a versatile technology that may be used in many sectors. From entertainment to education, it has the potential to change how we interact with the world. As technology advances, there’s no doubt that it’ll play a more important role in our lives on a daily basis.
