Introduction to AR
Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology-induced interactive environment where 3D elements are incorporated into the real world. It is an overlay into the existing environment that seeks to enhance the perception of the real world in a controllable manner. AR uses digital elements such as visual, auditory, haptic, somatosensory and olfactory stimuli to create a sensory reception. It changes the way big data is transmitted among tangible and intangible objects.
Understanding Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality is a functionality overlaid on the ground work of a user’s reality aka. their real world. It enables them to perceive and actively interact with their surroundings in a way that makes the functions of their environment smarter and more accessible. It is controllable mixed reality meant to enhance daily life and experiences.
Technology companies have utilised the benefit of AR especially in gaming and entertainment. Today, it is an effective tool in education, communications, medicine etc. AR has been used by production companies to visualize and measure the end product before commencing with the production. Marketers and websites use AR to help provide an optimal shopping experience by helping in trial before purchase from the comfort of a tech device, usually just a smartphone and right from home.
Highlights of Augmented Reality
AR is different from Virtual Reality (VR). Where AR blends into the real-world setting making it more interactive and controlled, VR lodges a simulated reality in place of the real world. Video games are a great example of VR where the user inhabits the new environment.
AR only overlays a digital element over the real-world and these elements can be manipulated and controlled to make the setting more interactive.
The primary focus of AR is to make the surroundings feel more immersive and interactive for the user.
This technology is ground-breaking in commercial industries in medicine, education, STEM learning, archaeology and architecture etc. It makes learning seem tangible since AR helps the concepts take actual shape right in front of the user’s eyes.
AR makes use of sensory reception when stimuli is provided to the visual, olfactory, auditory, haptic and somatosensory senses of the body.
