What is AR?

Augmented Reality (AR) is an enhanced version of the real physical world. Designers create inputs— from sound to video, graphics to GPS overlays— in digital content that reshapes the users’ environments. The technology allows brands to offer their customers unique experiences that infuse virtual, interactive elements into reality.

Various devices can display AR: screens, glasses, mobile devices, and more.

And you can apply AR in many different ways, such as mobile apps, web browsers, and social media selfie filters. Check out how enterprises across industries use AR to interact with their audiences:

Image Recognition

Amazon teamed up with L’Oreal to deploy AR to its beauty shoppers. While choosing the best shades of lipstick, the customers can upload a photo or video of themselves, and the app will superimpose different lipstick colors on their lips. This is how you “try on” makeup during online shopping!

Plane Detection

Enter IKEA’s AR mobile app . As the users swipe through different categories of products, they can virtually place any furniture – realistically rendered, true-to-scale 3D products – in their bedroom, study, and living room. The shopping experience has been completely changed to drag and drop.

Geolocation-based Targeting

AR apps can use the device’s GPS sensor to identify its location then add virtual elements to the real environment. Google has recently released its location-based AR experience on Google Maps app . When the phone recognizes its location, it puts AR content – signs and arrows overlaid on top of the camera view – onto the physical world to show direction. Locating your destination has never been easier!

Object Recognition

Nike has added a new AR feature to its app, Nike Fit, that allows you to find your shoe size from the comfort of your home. Simply point your phone’s camera at your feet, and the app will do the hard work.

What’s the difference between AR, VR, MR, & XR?

Read on