Augmented Reality technology started with gaming and later went on to become popular in the entertainment field but now it is not confined only to these two sectors. From retail to manufacturing to healthcare to education, films, animation and even start-ups, business leaders are transforming their business to a new dimension by harnessing the potential of AR Apps. According to Tim Cook, CEO, Apple Inc, “Augmented Reality promises to be as influential to our society as the smartphone.’’
With the interest in Augmented Reality apps growing significantly over the last few years, there are plenty of opportunities for Augmented Reality development companies in India. According to Statista, the worldwide market for AR is expected to rise to over $198 billion in 2025.
There is a growing tendency to adopt technology in every sphere of business. Augmented Reality technology has emerged as the innovative solution to many industries poised for a complete transformation in terms of better customer experience and enhanced brand presence. Research reports suggest that the AR market size which was USD 67.5 million in 2019 is likely to reach USD 1848.9 million in 2025.
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented Reality technology is a revolutionary technology that enhances the physical world by superimposing sound, image and making it immersive and interactive. It introduces computer generated graphics, sound, video, sensory projects into the real world to deliver an engaging customer experience. Accessories like handheld devices, headsets, smartphones, smart lenses, Google glass are popular AR tools that convert users’ surroundings into an interactive environment. The basic concept is to blend the real world with the virtual using computer generated graphics. Though initially developed by the US Air Force the Augmented Reality apps have spread across to a wide range of industries.
How it works
AR technology deploys virtual image over real -world objects using camera and devices like glasses. This superimposition creates an engaging, interactive and immersive experience for the user. The AR technology works on various approaches like Simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM), marker based which uses camera to identify the visual objects like QR or 2D code, location-based AR/ markerless AR where visuals get activated based on GPS and projection-based AR featuring optical devices that project light onto a specifically designed surface.
Impact of Augmented Reality applications in key sectors
Retail sector
The use of Augmented Reality apps in the retail sector can enhance the shopping experience for customers who get a virtual experience of how a product looks and works. Augmented Reality development companies in India are coming up with innovative solutions to strengthen brand experience. Shoppers can get instant information when they point their smartphones at the store shelves. Stores like IKEA have already implemented the AR technology to help customers explore their products in an exciting way and then make an informed purchase decision. Retailers like UrbanLadder and Pepperfry are using Augmented Reality apps to help customers explore options and also see how a product will look in their house. Product launches and brand awareness are made more engaging and interactive on AR enabled platform. Automobile showrooms can also consider digital distribution models for servicing and home delivery of vehicles. AR app is used effectively in designing cars before making the prototype. A quick adoption of Augmented Reality technology will not only enable better customer experience but also help in speeding up productivity.
Real estate
The Augmented Reality technology is showing great potential in the real estate sector as well. Quite often, impressive designs on property fail to connect as some customers might not be interested to read lengthy brochures. It is here that AR apps play a vital role in engaging the target audience that further leads to higher conversion. Realty developers are creating 3 D renderings of future homes and offices. These visual presentations, interactive walkthroughs offer detailed views of elevation, floor plans, electrical, plumbing etc, helping customers make informed decisions.
Healthcare
The AR technology can transform and simplify the way healthcare will be delivered in future. There is already a growing tendency of people turning to telemedicine. The widespread application of AR technology will enable customised treatments with online consultations. The effective implementation of the technology will help in analysing a medical condition and advice thereon. Augmented Reality technology can not only improve the quality of treatment but also better the performance of medical professionals. This technology enables physicians to study the patient’s anatomy without having to cut open a body. They can precisely visualise bones, muscles and other organs by entering the data on to the AR headset. AccuVein, ARnatomy, VA-ST are the presently available AR solutions in the healthcare. For instance, AccuVein helps in identifying the exact location of the veins and Virtual Interactive Presence and Augmented Reality (VIPAR) enables remote surgical assistance. The advancement of AR can drastically transform healthcare sector in the years to come.
Education
The Covid-19 pandemic has been an example where technology was vastly imparting education. Technology has made a huge leap in the education sector. The cloud based online learning is set to continue in 2021. The use of Augmented Reality apps can further enhance learning by introducing new perspectives. The method is not only fun to learn but develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills. AR is also accessible to the visually impaired, with the help of touch vibrations. Younger kids can learn about animals by hearing the sounds they make. This interactive mode of learning makes children more involved in the learning process. As for the higher grades, students often fail to comprehend complex concepts. Their understanding is limited to the textbooks and references. In this context, Augmented Reality apps offer in-depth information in visual form with real life implications. This helps students retain the information in addition to performing better in examinations.
What lies ahead
Going forward, reports suggest that phones and tablets will not be the only devices for AR technology. Research contemplates the use of AR functionality in contact lenses and other wearable devices. AR technology is showing huge potential in public safety as well. AR glasses can alert danger zones. Geolocation enabled AR apps can direct to areas of help like nearest medical centre or fire fighters and police. Some of the trends to look forward include AR enabled shopping, indoor navigation at places like airports, malls, hospitals and office premises and web browsers adopting webAR standards. The growth of AR technology is all set to be steady and the future looks bright for this revolutionary technology in domains like gaming, entertainment, tourism, retail, engineering, real estate and education.
Known for innovative tech centred solutions, Digital Eyecon Pvt. Ltd. is one of the premier Augmented Reality development companies in Hyderabad. This company has delivered innovative and inspiring AR applications in diverse sectors.