Augmented reality is an indirect or direct simulation of the real world through computer generated platforms. The elements are augmented or supplemented through these digital devices. Audio, video and other sensory characteristics are also provided to the reality. By augmenting reality, the physical world in itself becomes truly immersive. This augmentation is done in real time. This supplemented reality has been put to many uses and the latest innovations. However, the market for mobile AR is expanding at the most rapid pace. Mobile AR platforms can operate on Android, iOS, Samsung and other processing units. While it might be a while because these mobile versions become mainstream, they will however shake the tech up by storm.
Less advanced versions of augmented reality have already entered the scene. An app called Layer can work on Apple phones and gives you augmented reality of surrounding infrastructure. This is done using the phone’s camera as well as GPS settings. This unique app can give you information about any building in the vicinity, information about companies nearby that are hiring, places to eat and their interiors. It is truly revolutionizing. Layer isn’t the only version of augmented reality that has been built for smart phone applications. Yelp also recently introduced the feature to their applications. Their augmented reality called Monocle uses GPS and a compass to locate nearby restaurants and other places to eat. This site not only provides you with reviews left by other customers but also lets acquire ratings of places so you only invest in the best place.
There are other apps on the market that use augmented reality. Many are currently in development. Urbanspoon is a unique app that has a function much like that of Yelp. Wikitude gives you information found on Wikipedia wherever you might be. Most of these mobile applications make use of GPS, compass or camera to bring augmented reality to life.
While augmented reality can pose many benefits, its most profound use has been in Pokemon Go. This has been the height of its usage in the industry. This trend has many people wondering if Glasses could be ultimately better than AR. Headsets and Glasses such as HoloLens, Meta and Magic leap offer mixed reality to customers. This introduces a holographic version of the world. These headsets can be used to browse the web, order stuff online, take a tour of distant lands, and even play games that are completely immersive. While these standards may be much better than augmented reality, their arrival does not mean we should halt the use of augmented reality gadgets. There are many advantages that augmented reality can offer to the industry, it just needs time and space to grow into the market.
Augmented reality for sports and entertainment: Augmented reality can breathe innovation and excitement into the way the entertainment world works. From sports to games, movies and videos, this interesting technology can change the way we enjoy different things. Video game companies are quickly taking advantage of this technology and Total Immersion Company is making softwares that can apply augmented reality concepts to sports cards such as baseball cards. The software uses webcam to recognize the player and then displays the character on screen.
Uses in the Military: Augmented reality may also pose advantages in the military for training. Video games that have incorporated augmented reality softwares can help prepare soldiers mentally for battles and help them and chiefs develop strategies for battle. By using footage from drones, they can be trained according to the terrain and landscape of the place where they are being sent to battle. This will help them overcome anxiety, panic attacks and induce courage and valor.
Medical uses: Augmented reality may also pose numerous benefits for the medical world. Patients who are undergoing treatments can be shown visuals to help them prepare and accept their new forms. For example, people going facial surgery may visualize their new features by the use of this technology and make judicious judgments about their investments.
Virtual reality headsets and gadgets can offer a lot in terms of immersive experiences, however, since augmented reality is in its primitive stage, it must be given time to grow into a full-fledged industry, especially since its advantages will be ground breaking for involved sectors.
