Introduction to Augmented Reality
The world of technology has been buzzing with the concept of virtual reality, where users wear heavy, expensive goggles to experience a simulated world. However, a more exciting and practical technology is emerging: augmented reality (AR). AR superimposes graphics onto the actual world, allowing users to see virtual objects of their actual surroundings.
What is Augmented Reality?
AR is different from virtual reality since it doesn’t isolate users from the actual world. Instead, it enhances their reality by adding virtual objects, information, and experiences. A well-liked example of AR is the Pokémon Go app, which overlays virtual creatures onto real-world locations. Another example is Snapchat, which uses AR so as to add funny glasses and antennae to users’ faces.
Apple’s Contribution to AR
Earlier this 12 months, Apple released ARKit, a set of tools that makes it easier for software firms to develop AR apps. This move has given AR an enormous boost, and plenty of firms are actually creating revolutionary AR experiences. For instance, IKEA developed an app called IKEA Place, which allows users to check out furniture of their actual homes. The app uses AR to superimpose virtual furniture onto real-world rooms, making it easier for users to make your mind up what to purchase.
AR Apps: A New Wave of Innovation
With the discharge of iOS 11, the iPhone has develop into probably the most common AR platform on Earth. As a result, many latest AR apps are emerging, catering to numerous interests and desires. Some apps are games, while others are useful tools that may enhance each day life. Here are a couple of examples of AR apps which can be making waves:
IKEA Place: Try Before You Buy
IKEA Place is an app that lets users check out furniture of their actual homes. The app is incredibly realistic, allowing users to see how virtual furniture would look of their rooms. Users can pick from a catalog of living-room furniture, select a color, after which tap the screen to put the virtual furniture of their room.
Porsche AR: See the Car in Your Driveway
The Porsche AR app is a sales tool that lets users see what a Porsche would seem like of their driveway or garage. The app is incredibly realistic, allowing users to walk across the virtual automobile and even stick their foot under it. The app also lets users change the automobile’s color, model, and interior, making it a improbable AR demo.
shARk: A Swimming Tiger Shark
The shARk app is a fun AR experience that lets users see a tiger shark swimming through the air. The app is straightforward but thrilling, and users can tap the screen to drop food and attract the shark. The app is a terrific example of how AR could be used to create immersive and interactive experiences.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar: An Educational App
The Very Hungry Caterpillar app is an academic AR experience that brings the favored kids’ book character to life. The app lets users see the caterpillar crawling through their actual world, feeding it fruit, and observing it grow. The app is a delicate introduction to video games and is ideal for little kids.
MeasureKit: A Virtual Tape Measure
The MeasureKit app is a useful AR tool that gives a virtual tape measure. Users can point their phone at an object, tap to anchor the "tape measure," after which point at the alternative corner to get the gap in feet and inches. The app is incredibly accurate and could be used to measure rooms, furniture, and more.
Hair Color Changer: Try Before You Dye
The Hair Color Changer app is a fun AR experience that lets users try on different hair colours. The app uses AR to superimpose virtual hair colours onto users’ live video images, making it easy to see how a brand new color would look. The app is ideal for users who need to check out a brand new hair color without committing to it.
Night Sky: A Stargazing App
The Night Sky app is an academic AR experience that lets users see the celebs and constellations within the night sky. The app uses AR to superimpose virtual stars and constellations onto the real-world sky, making it easy to discover and learn in regards to the night sky.
The Future of AR
The examples mentioned above are only the start of what AR can offer. As technology improves and more developers create AR experiences, we are able to expect to see much more revolutionary and practical applications of AR. Imagine having the ability to see the repair history of a used automobile, or getting navigation directions with AR arrows floating above the real-world sidewalk. The possibilities are countless, and the longer term of AR is exciting.
Conclusion
Augmented reality is a technology that has the potential to revolutionize the way in which we interact with the world. With the discharge of ARKit and iOS 11, the iPhone has develop into probably the most common AR platform on Earth, and plenty of latest AR apps are emerging. From try-before-you-buy furniture apps to educational experiences and useful tools, AR is enhancing each day life and providing latest and revolutionary ways to interact with the world. As technology improves, we are able to expect to see much more exciting and practical applications of AR, and the longer term of this technology is certainly something to stay up for.
