It has essentially merged the gap between reality and computer generated simulations by manipulating what the user experiences via sight, sound, smell and touch. In brief, AR integrates animations into your reality so the general setting looks the same, but with some added details.
Although AR is related to Virtual Reality (VR), the two technologies are not synonymous. VR produces computer-generated simulations of an environment that users can experience by wearing a helmet or gloves with built-in sensors. Read my previous blog on VR for more insight. AR, on the other hand, allows users to experience the technology simply by glancing into the screen of an Android, iPhone or other mobile device such as a tablet.
AR is altering the world as we know it — or at least changing the way people experience the world. The Pokemon game craze is probably the most well-known platform that has utilized AR for gaming. It may sound silly to some, but the game is highly addictive. To understand specific reasons behind this obsession, read my previous blog to learn why Pokemon Go has become so successful.
To gain a better understanding of how app developers have taken advantage of this innovative technology, we will look at a few providers who have successfully used AR for non-gaming purposes.
Health and Education
The Anatomy 4D app is a cloud-based, interactive simulation resource for academic uses. It offers users online access to anatomy data while analyzing detailed bone structures and organ systems. This can be done by downloading specialized research templates or by enabling structure projection and layer blending. The AR program allows project structures to sync with skin to analyze coordination and position. Users can also adequately balance the layers to reveal discrete anatomic implications. You can also hover over objects or images to reveal detailed information via label view. It’s these perspectives that produce enhanced learning retention by granting students an in-depth look at any part of the body they are studying. This also is useful for medical instructors who can organize image and structure curricula along with managing lessons and tests.
Shopping with AR: Pair
This app enables users to place animated images of furniture into their space so they can perfectly visualize how it would look in real life. Pair’s tagline is “The New Way to Try Before You Buy with Augmented Reality.” Indeed, the app grants prospects an easier method to experience the end result of an interior design project. For example, let’s say you just purchased your first home and the space is completely empty. You would be able to walk room to room while viewing how you would want it to look through your mobile device. You’d be able to put furniture, pictures and other items in designated areas of the space, swap them out, and switch them around. Cool, right? Still, Pair has a much more expansive purpose than simply furniture; it could enhance scientific, educational and commercial projects by giving spectators a 3-D demonstration of what a particular vision would look like. I was able to see Pair in action during 500 Startups Batch 18 Demo Day, and it’s pretty impressive.
Mechanics and Construction
This month, AMA XpertEye will supply workers at Keolis Commuter Services (KCS) in Massachusetts with AR smart glasses to improve communication and boost efficiency on their railway transportation system. These specialized glasses stream the video being recorded and tethered to a mobile device. The remote supervisor monitors the recording over a laptop. From there, both parties can "exchange written messages and take screenshots of the video, annotate the images, and send them to each other." Ultimately the goal is to speed up delays caused from train repairs and other technical difficulties. Additionally, Keolis is considering the technology for training purposes, so newcomers can literally see through the eyes of seasoned field workers.
Sports and Play
This cutting-edge technology created by Heads up Display is seen with RideOn Ski Goggles. These one-of-a-kind specs allow users to access heightened assistance while skiing or snowboarding the slopes. Map navigation systems can guide users easily through rough and diverse terrain. You can also communicate with other riders, see their whereabouts and even text them hands-free. In addition, the goggles allow riders to capture images of their surroundings and share them online for others to see. The company is also developing games that can be played directly through these lenses. And, of course, users can jam to their own personalized soundtrack as they ride, jump, flip and recover from a wipeout. Although the technology is geared for the snow, it's useful for motorcyclists, ATV riders and other similar vehicles.
As technology progresses, it will be interesting to see what other AR use cases are developed.
