Augmented reality has really come into its own over the last few years. From interactive and immersive weather reports to helping fighter pilots find their targets day or night, augmented reality glasses have proven themselves as a powerful aid for industry and the general public at large. Considering its progress so far, future applications of augmented reality glasses are likely to be limited only by our collective imagination.
What is augmented reality (AR)?
Augmented reality (AR for short) is defined as “the real-time use of information in the form of text, graphics, audio, or other virtual enhancements integrated with real-world objects.”
This generally means that digital imagery, or data, is rendered onto real-world objects like actual physical things or, at times, integrated into more traditional media like live video streams or heads-up displays, or even special augmented reality glasses.
It can also include the use of computer-generated perceptual information including visual, auditory, haptic (touch), and olfactory (smell) enhancement of how a user experiences the real world.
In other words, as the name suggests, it augments your very reality!
How does AR work?
AR works by adding digital content onto a live camera feed, making that digital content look as if it is part of the physical world around you.
This is generally achieved by using computer vision, which is a trait that differentiates AR from VR, which transports users into completely digital worlds using headsets and sometimes haptic sensors.
Real-world uses of AR
Some real-life examples of augmented reality:
Games like Pokemon Go! use AR
Although its popularity has waned since 2016, Pokemon Go! still has its die-hard fans. The main part of this game’s original appeal was the way it combined the real world with Pokémon characters, which is the very definition of augmented reality. Many other games have copied the same concept since, like Jurassic Park and the up-and-coming Harry Potter themed AR game from Niantic.
Although these examples are purely for recreation, they show the potential for augmented reality glasses.
AR in medical training
Augmented reality is now used in medical training, with applications ranging from MRI applications to performing highly delicate surgery.
At the Cleveland Clinic at Case Western Reserve University, for example, students are taught the ins and outs of anatomy using AR headsets or augmented reality glasses. This technology lets them delve into the human body without the need for dissecting cadavers or watching live operations.
But training isn’t the only application of augment reality glasses in this field. AR also has applications during operations where it can help reduce the need for more traditional invasive cameras and probes.
InnerOptic Technology’s Magic Loupe, for example, integrates with Osterhout Design Group (ODG) and Microsoft‘s HoloLens to improve the doctors’ view of the patient’s insides.
This has the potential to make invasive surgeries more precise and safe.
Car mechanics
Porsche has been trying out AR as a new method to help mechanics during servicing and maintenance of its customers’ pride and joy.
Its Tech Live Look provides Porsche remote servicing engineers with the ability to use ODG smart augmented reality glasses to connect with Porsche’s Atlanta-based service HQ and get real-time assistance.
A Porsche mechanic can then guide remote staff through the process through live guides, video tutorials, documents, and other pertinent information as they work on the car.
The idea is to improve the efficacy of repairs and also help speed up services for customers.
Harley Davidson is using AR to help customers
The retail sector is also starting to use AR to help its customers have a more enjoyable and interactive shopping experience.
Shoppers have long been using their smartphones to compare prices and get information on products in store for many years but by integrating AR, Harley Davidson is taking this to the next level.
They have developed a special app for their customers that lets them view a motorcycle in-store and customise it by changing paint jobs, adding accessories, and more on their phones.
This is an interesting application of AR and one that’s bound to become more common with other large brands, such as potentially Ikea. A number of apps have also been developed that use AR to allow customers to “try on” clothing remotely before they buy online.
Television broadcasts are using AR
From weather broadcasts to sports events, AR is becoming ever more common on your TV. AR is perfectly suited for this kind of application and really brings some subjects to life for the general public.
AR could be used in educational documentaries, live sporting events, or other live news reporting to help you understand more esoteric subjects.
These kinds of applications of AR are both engaging and immersive.
Gatwick Airport uses AR
Augmented Reality is being used by Gatwick Airport’s app to help passengers get to their plane. Their app has been so successful that it has also recently won awards.
The app won the Mobile Innovation of the Year Award at the National Technology awards back in 2017. It provides passengers with personalised wayfinding around the airport and there are plans to integrate intelligent chatbots to improve the service even more.
Their app utilises over 2,000 beacons to guide passengers through AR-augmented smartphone maps through their two busy terminals. The aim is that as the app matures it will make enormous improvements to general traffic flow through the airport.
AR for interior design and modelling
Given the capabilities of this technology, it is only natural that applications in architectural design and construction have already been found. Augmented reality glasses technology can help professionals visualise their final designs with ease during the planning phase.
They can even take virtual tours within their designs using headsets, and tinker with the design in a fully immersive environment. This can even be expanded to city planners who can model entire city layouts and go for a tour.
AR is simply perfect for any activity that has some element of spatial design.
AR in the classroom
Another interesting application for augmented reality glasses is in classrooms. Teachers and other educators are starting to introduce augmented reality to help engage children with the subject at hand.
AR can provide a fun and immersive learning experience for kids of all ages.