Why is Augmented Reality So Popular in 2021?
The term “augmented reality” (AR) was first coined by researcher Tom Caudell at Boeing in 1990. However, it wasn’t until recently that AR exploded in popularity. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated its growth, with people becoming more reliant on digital technology for work and entertainment.
What is Augmented Reality (AR)?
AR is a technology that overlays digital information onto the real world, creating a composite view of the environment. It typically consists of a camera, a display, and software that recognizes and tracks objects in the user’s surroundings. AR can be used on smartphones, tablets, and glasses, making it accessible to a wide audience.
AR in Gaming and Entertainment
One of the most popular uses of AR is in gaming and entertainment. Pokemon Go, launched in 2016, was a huge success, with over a billion downloads worldwide. This groundbreaking game used AR to bring Pokemon creatures into the real world, enabling players to catch them on their smartphones. Other popular AR games include Ingress and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite.
Apart from gaming, AR is becoming more prevalent in the entertainment industry. Snapchat filters, for example, use AR to superimpose digital images, animations, and effects onto users’ faces. TikTok, a short-form video-sharing app, is also experimenting with AR effects to enhance users’ content.
AR in Retail and E-commerce
AR is also gaining popularity in the retail and e-commerce sector. With the pandemic causing physical stores to shut down, businesses are turning to AR to offer customers a virtual shopping experience. For example, IKEA’s AR app allows customers to visualize furniture in their homes before making a purchase. Similarly, beauty brands such as Sephora and Estée Lauder are using AR to enable customers to try on makeup virtually.
AR in Education and Training
AR is also being used in education and training. For example, medical students can use AR to practice surgical procedures on virtual models, improving their skills and reducing the need for cadavers. In the military, AR is used to simulate combat scenarios, allowing soldiers to train in a safe and controlled environment.
Conclusion
AR offers countless opportunities in various industries, providing a novel way to engage audiences and enhance experiences. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more creative uses of AR in the future.
