Evolution of Augmented Reality

In 1901, the first augmented reality concepts appeared when Frank Baum’s novel “The Master Key” was published. Although the hero’s glasses were not named AR, the daemon gave him glasses so that he could see the letters on people’s foreheads that represented their nature, e.g., E for evil, G for good, W for wisdom, etc.

AR Lab’s “Video Place” was established in 1974.

However, Tom Caudel and David Mizell were the first to document augmented reality features in 1990.

Julie Martin introduced the first fully functioning AR gadget in 1994. It was called “Dancing in Cyberspace” as it was an augmented reality theatre that mixed virtual objects with real-world environment.

AR has progressed rapidly in the twenty-first century. Hirokazu Kato launched ARToolKit, an open-source AR library, in 2000. It was an important combination of virtual graphics and real-time video tracking for overlapping images. ARToolkit seamlessly integrated into web browsers after nine years.

In 2013, Google launched the “Google Glass” project, and in 2016, the augmented reality game “Pokémon Go” dominated the world.

Since 2018, more than 1,000 apps with a range of augmented reality capabilities have been released on the Google and Apple App Stores.

Basic difference between augmented reality and virtual reality

Virtual reality (VR), a technology that immerses the user in a synthetic environment and isolates him from the real world, is commonly mistaken with augmented reality.

The difference between AR and VR is that the former amplifies reality, while the latter replaces. AR thus refers to the overlaying of digital, computer-generated information (e.g., video, sound, or animation) over a real-time environment to complement it.

Consider several examples of VR and AR devices to better understand augmented reality technology.

Augmented Reality apps include:

•       Customers can use Ikea’s augmented reality app to find products suitable for their location. They can look around the room using their smartphone’s camera. They can immediately see if a piece of Ikea furniture matches the design in their flat by swiping and clicking on it.

•       Gap recently introduced AR-enhanced changing rooms, allowing customers to try on a range of items without losing their belongings in store.

•       Bayern Monaco has released an augmented reality app that allows fans to take pictures with their heroes without having to travel to Munich and capture the stars.

•       Thanks to Land Rover’s Augmented Reality software, drivers can view the car’s engine through a transparent bonnet.

Examples of virtual reality

•       Marriott’s virtual reality “Transporters” software allows guests to tour its properties around the world. The software is realistic and can provide a true travel experience.

•       SportX’s virtual reality simulator allows customers to try on sold sportswear in a range of simulated activities such as jogging, swimming, or tennis.

•       During an operation, the HoloTeach VR app allows surgeons to connect and consult in real time, even when they are thousands of miles away.

AR is an interactive reality that incorporates computer-generated components such as video, sound, or graphics/animation into the real world to provide a more immersive experience for the user.