The term “Augmented Reality” (AR) refers to a live, direct, or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment, with computer-generated sensory input such as sound, video, graphics, or GPS data enhancing some aspects of the environment. Augmented reality leverages the existing world and adds new information on top of it, in contrast to virtual reality, which creates a wholly fictional environment (Chavan, 2016).
To include animation and digital data in the computer program, developers of augmented reality applications use specialized programming languages. To locate and pinpoint the user’s actual location, augmented reality (AR) applications for smartphones typically employ the global positioning system (GPS). For training purposes, the military employs several AR developers who make use of gesture and object recognition.
Applications of Augmented Reality
Here are a few potential uses for augmented reality in the future:
Medical
Through improved sensory perception for the surgeon, augmented reality can lower the risk of an operation. The technology allows medical students to practice surgery in a safe setting. This technology can be used in conjunction with MRI or X-ray equipment to give the surgeon a comprehensive image of the patient’s anatomy.
Education
Applications for augmented reality can supplement regular education. A student’s actual environment can be overlaid with text, images, video, and music. When scanned by an AR device, textbooks, flashcards, and other instructional reading material provide supplemental information for the student presented in a multimedia style. Students can investigate and learn about each key part of the event site through interactive computer-generated reconstructions of historical events.
Navigation
Augmented reality is being used by GPS systems to facilitate travel between locations. The users watch the chosen route over the live view of what is in front of the automobile using the phone’s camera in conjunction with the GPS.
Types of Augmented Reality
The majority of AR-based apps exhibit some distinct variances in their fundamental functionality. As a result, some solutions concentrate on identifying graphic markers some process GPS data, and others may mix both aspects. Full-body motion tracking AR/VR solutions are an emerging technology for people in the sectors who need convincing real-world interactions inside their virtual world surroundings.
Solutions for full-body tracking
Manus VR stands for the most innovative full-body tracking AR/VR solutions. To enable full-body, tactile interactions in virtual reality, Manus introduces Polygon full-body tracking for VR and sophisticated Prime II gloves. Manus, a motion capture specialist, enters a new era of team collaboration in hyper-realistic immersive VR through natural body movements and accurate touch sensations.
Now, Manus offers users a comprehensive, reliable, and effective VR system created especially for teams working in the enterprise sectors of the automotive, engineering, manufacturing, and life sciences, as well as those who develop virtual experiences for media and entertainment.
Apps that use markers
The most well-known AR software principle is certainly this one. Markers come in a variety of forms, from straightforward geometric shapes (which are typically encased in QR codes) to complicated real items for digital perception, such as human faces. These solutions require a lot of man-hours to implement, which makes them somewhat resource-intensive. It takes a long time to process many diverse events;
Apps that use Gyroscope
Another typical method of using AR software is to simply use the data that the gyroscope of the user’s smartphone has gathered. This in-built functionality allows developers to add life to virtual 3D things on top of actual objects in the real world;
Apps for SLAM.
These approaches make use of the Simultaneous Localization and Mapping principle, which is based on gathering information from multiple sensors at once such as the GPS, gyroscope, accelerometer, etc. They draw up three-dimensional objects on the background of real objects, much like the gyroscope-based apps before them, but without the need for markers.
GPS-focused applications.
A high-speed internet connection is also necessary for this kind of solution in addition to the GPS connection. Various current AR browsers are examples of such apps.
Advantages of Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality offers numerous advantages in various fields such as education, healthcare, and entertainment. One key benefit is its ability to enhance learning experiences by providing interactive and engaging educational content. For example, students can visualize complex concepts in 3D models or simulate experiments in a virtual environment. In the healthcare sector, AR technology can assist surgeons during procedures by overlaying medical information directly onto the patient’s body.
Moreover, AR can improve efficiency and accuracy in tasks such as assembly line operations or maintenance processes by providing real-time instructions and guidance. In the realm of marketing and retail, augmented reality enables customers to try products virtually before making a purchase decision, enhancing their shopping experience. Additionally, AR applications have been utilized in tourism to provide users with interactive guided tours or historical information about landmarks.
The immersive nature of augmented reality also has significant potential for gaming and entertainment industries, allowing users to interact with digital elements overlaid in the real world. Furthermore, AR can foster collaboration and communication among teams working remotely through shared virtual spaces. Overall, the versatility and adaptability of augmented reality continue to unlock new possibilities for innovation and improvement across diverse domains.
Disadvantages of Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality (AR) offers many benefits, but there are also some disadvantages to consider. One major drawback is the potential for users to become disoriented or experience motion sickness while using AR devices. This can be a barrier to widespread adoption of the technology, especially in long-term use scenarios.
Another disadvantage is the high cost associated with developing and implementing AR applications. The technology requires specialized hardware and software, which can be expensive for both developers and end-users. Additionally, privacy concerns arise with AR as it can collect and store personal data about users without their explicit consent.
Furthermore, AR can sometimes lead to distractions in real-world settings, as users may become too engrossed in their digital surroundings and lose awareness of what’s happening around them. This poses safety risks, especially in situations where vigilance is essential. Lastly, there are challenges related to content creation for AR platforms, requiring developers to adapt traditional design processes to suit the unique demands of augmented reality experiences.
