Introduction to Augmented Reality
Apple’s ARKit platform allows developers to create interactive augmented reality apps that mix 2D and 3D elements. These apps use your iPhone’s cameras, display, graphics processor, and machine learning capabilities to deliver realistic experiences. Unlike virtual reality, which transports you to a fictional place using a VR headset, augmented reality superimposes objects and elements onto the world around you.
How AR Works on iPhones
AR is supported on all modern iPhones, including the iPhone 6s and later, and all generations of the iPhone SE. Since ARKit was first announced in 2017, developers have created 1000’s of AR apps for the App Store. Many apps now include AR experiences, including some you may have already got installed in your iPhone, similar to Snapchat, Google Maps, Amazon, and Sephora. AR apps have multiple uses, including shopping, learning, games, DIY projects, and more.
Top AR Apps for iPhone
Here are a few of the top AR apps available for iPhone:
Google Translate
Google Translate is a robust app that uses AR to assist you interpret languages. You can point your camera at a road sign or text in one other language, and the app will display the interpretation on top of your live view. To get one of the best results, change your input and output language within the app. You may upload a picture out of your gallery to view the translated text superimposed on top of your image.
Civilisations AR
Civilisations AR by BBC is a free app that allows you to view artifacts from world wide in augmented reality. You can examine each artifact up close, rotate and zoom in to view their features intimately, and browse an in depth description about each item. The app includes a variety of themes, including Early Civilisations, Human Body, Faith, Encounters, and Progress & Modernity.
Sketchar
Sketchar is an app that helps you learn to attract using AR. The app displays an AR sketch on the surface in front of you, letting you grab a pencil and trace the lines displayed in your phone’s screen. You can pick from various categories, including Architecture, People, Nature, Anime, Animals, Anatomy, Cartoons and Characters, and lots of more.
Sky Guide
Sky Guide is an AR app that helps you explore the celebrities and constellations within the sky. You can point your camera on the sky to see the constellations above you, and the app will even visualize the constellations, joining the dots between stars so you possibly can view their imagined shapes.
TapMeasure
TapMeasure is an app that takes the iPhone’s Measure app to the following level. You can capture measurements, use the spirit level feature, and create 3D models of rooms. The tape measure tool allows you to measure vertical or horizontal surfaces, and you possibly can construct 3D models of a room with easy onscreen prompts to guide you.
Conclusion
Augmented reality is a robust technology that’s changing the way in which we interact with the world around us. With the range of AR apps available for iPhone, you possibly can explore latest worlds, learn latest skills, and rejoice. Whether you are interested by art, history, science, or simply need to try something latest, there’s an AR app on the market for you. So why not give a few of these apps a try to see what amazing things you possibly can discover?
