Introduction to Augmented Reality
Facebook’s vision for augmented reality has been debuted by Mark Zuckerberg, and it’s expected to play an enormous role in the corporate’s F8 conference for software developers in San Jose. But what exactly is augmented reality, and the way does it work?
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that uses a digital image and layers it on top of an individual’s view of the true world. This might be viewed in multiple forms, resembling a headset or device supporting AR, or something simpler like your smartphone camera. AR is different from virtual reality (VR), which creates a very virtual world for the user to experience.
Have You Used Augmented Reality Before?
You may be surprised to learn that you’ve got probably used AR before, even when you didn’t know it. Have you ever used Snapchat filters or played Pokémon Go? These are each examples of AR in motion. With Snapchat, the app uses digital images like bunny ears or funny glasses and places them in your face when taking an image. In Pokémon Go, users could view the creatures through their smartphone camera, simulating the experience of catching Pokémon in the true world. Other apps like Yelp have also experimented with AR.
Other Companies Jumping on Board
Microsoft is working on a headset called HoloLens, which is a more sophisticated spin on augmented reality. For example, a user could play Minecraft through the device, with their block-filled world coming to life on a coffee table. Apple can be reportedly considering a move into AR, either with the subsequent version of the iPhone or a pair of glasses. Google has also famously brought AR to the highlight with its Google Glass eyewear.
Why is Augmented Reality a Big Deal?
While VR gets plenty of attention, AR is already an idea that many users are aware of, and also you do not have to spend plenty of money to enjoy it. According to Apple CEO Tim Cook, AR has more potential for breaking through to the masses than VR. The revenue potential for AR can be significant, with a SuperData Research report predicting that AR and mixed reality will generate $30.4 billion in revenue by 2020, poised to top VR revenue in the long run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, augmented reality is a technology that’s already getting used by many individuals, and its potential for growth and development is critical. With firms like Facebook, Microsoft, Apple, and Google investing in AR, we are able to expect to see more modern and exciting applications of this technology in the long run. As AR continues to evolve and improve, it’s likely that we’ll see it turn out to be an increasingly vital a part of our every day lives.
