The list of promising technologies of our times will not be completed without the augmented reality (AR).
Few people know, but the history of AR began back in 1961.
Every year, technology improves and is already becoming a familiar and useful tool.
Back to the Source
In 1992, the first operational AR system began to be used by the U.S. Air Force. It was called “Virtual Lights” – a new method for training pilots. By superimposing physically real objects on 3D virtual ones, the 1st real experience of AR appeared, providing a picture, sound, and touch.
In 2008, the first AR apps were created for phones, so users were able to take advantage of the latest technology for the first time. The first app was created for Android users, and it gave them an opportunity to use their cameras to see various VR objects in 3D on the screen. Soon, the app appeared on the iPhone and was launched as a navigation tool called Wikitude Drive. Today, the creation of such apps gained special popularity: it is possible thanks to many web development services provided by professionals. Wherever the consumer is – there must be an advanced AR technology.
Going Beyond the Wow Effect
AR still has an amazing wow factor. It worked perfectly with the Pokemon Go game, in which millions of players still find, capture, and train virtual creatures that appear on the screen as if they were in the same place as the player.
Augmented Reality: Prospects and Future of Technology
Leading brands and retailers such as Sephora, Nestlé, and Jaguar Land Rover have shown particular leadership in this area. They experimented with using AR to provide personalized consultations or additional services for their products, leading to successful, inspiring campaigns that go far beyond ordinary games.
For example, Ikea has fully integrated AR into its app, which allows users to check how furniture can look in their homes. Confectionery brand Cadbury has used the technology to enhance the Christmas gift calendar for its consumers. Chocolate lovers could use the Blippar app to scan their calendar and enter the World of Winter Wonders.
The largest interest to the tech is among the giants – Google, Apple, and Microsoft. Due to the financial capabilities and the staff of developers, they are the closest to create truly massive products using AR.
After the presentation of Google Glasses in 2012, the prototypes of the gadget were released, and the long process of testing the product began. For a wide audience, Google Glasses became available in May 2014. Their price at that time was $1,500.
In Conclusion
Interest in AR continues to increase each day. Now it is driven by artificial intelligence, which allows cameras to perceive the world and add digital content to it. We are sure that the following years will be key to the development of AR. So, let’s see what it will bring to us.