Augmented Reality

What is Augmented reality or AR? Augmented Reality is where the physical world merges with the virtual world of computer generated imagery. Creating a mixed reality.

It is very likely you have seen some sort of augmented reality already, just like the weather forecasts on the television, or sports scores on screen whilst the match is being played. It is where computer generated images are overlaid onto a real life background. Television has been doing this kind of stuff for years.

With the introduction of Smartphones and their applications such as GPS (Global Positioning System) and video camera capabilities you can now view augmented reality on your mobile phone. There is a lot of buzz around AR at the moment with numerous companies beginning to use it in their marketing efforts. See what’s being said about Augmented Reality on Twitter.

Watch this video by Dutch company called Layar:




Many companies have realised the opportunities that Augmented Reality hold and are trying various ways to interact with the consumer. Esquire Magazine tried out Augmented Reality in their December issue. Also see the social media guide Mashable’s article on AR says, 10 Amazing Augmented Reality apps for the iPhone that vary from functional, to educational, to just plain fun.

BMW are running an AR project where you can fix your own car, no experience required, it’s all in front of you. See the video.

In 2009 ABI research produced a report saying that mobile devices will help drive the adoption of Augmented Reality, shooting revenue associated with AR from $6 million in 2008 to $350 million in 2014.

It will take some time for Augmented Reality to become mainstream, although interestingly we are seeing some fantastic uses and the future for AR will definitely be something to look forward to in the coming years.