Augmented Reality refers to overlaying parts of a virtual world on top of the real world. Augmented Reality is a way to enhance what you see with your mobile device’s camera by adding multimedia content.
Augmented Reality allows mobile app developers and businesses to overlay digital data over a real-world object.
Businesses can create Augmented Reality apps to build a stronger connection with their customers through interactive user experiences. Digi-Capital blog states that the Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality markets was values at $108 billion in 2021. In this case, Augmented Reality’s share is expected to grow by $83 billion.
Types of Augmented Reality Applications
There are four types of AR Mobile Applications. These are Marker-based, Location-based, Projection-based, and superimposition-based AR Applications.
Marker-Based
Mobile applications that use augmented Reality to mark their environment are based on image recognition. The app uses a mobile device’s camera to identify patterns and markers such as images or QR codes. The app overlays digital information onto the marker once a pattern has been placed. The marker’s position determines the orientation of the AR object.
Location-Based
AR apps that are location-based don’t require markers. Instead, they use GPS and other position sensors (accelerometers or digital compasses) to determine your location and create AR objects. For example, location-based AR mobile apps can give directions to your car in large parking lots.
Projection Based Augmented Reality
Projection-based Augmented Reality is a concept that uses advanced projection technology to create projection-based augmented realities. This projection-based technology can simplify the tedious manual tasks involved in manufacturing.
Superimposition Based Augmented Reality
Superimposition-based Augmented Reality is a type of AR that replaces or partially substitutes the original view with an augmented version. Although an item can be seen in Reality, superimposition AR allows you to see it in Reality. However, the object will look dramatically different when placed in Reality.
Augmented Reality Trends Emerging in 2022
Augmented Reality, or AR, has proven to be a game changer for many industries. Virtual product displays have been a huge benefit to the retail sector. Still, healthcare is also using AR to improve its patient care systems. AR offers a wide range of benefits, regardless of your industry.
Businesses are looking for new ways to incorporate AR into their business processes. This is why they are the leaders of change. This is the AR technology landscape as it stands today and what the future holds for the AR technology sector.
Virtual Showrooms
Brands can engage customers online through virtual showrooms or digital showrooms. These showrooms can be used as a replacement for physical ones and offer a variety of benefits, including increased engagement and sales. Brands can organize and create new collections and upload pricing and delivery information. To eliminate physical sampling, stores can also use 3D virtual sampling functions.
AR Smart Glasses Evolve
For a while, smart glasses with AR technology were a part of the vast reality landscape. These glasses are being hailed as the next generation of wearable technology, allowing users to merge the digital and real worlds seamlessly.
Although there have been many AR intelligent glasses over the years, this concept has not taken the world by storm. This could change soon.
Companies like Google, Apple, and Meta (Facebook), began to talk about their smart glasses releases in 2021. These smart glasses are designed to be more efficient and sleeker than ever.
In-Store Navigation
A mobile app is the most common form of AR in-store navigation. Augmented Reality Navigation will allow customers to quickly navigate large shopping malls and find the right product. These apps can do more than just provide AR routing. They also leverage advanced programming language features like Python try-catch.
Lowe’s is one of America’s most trusted home improvement brands. AR-driven technology can suggest a shopping route, show the exact location of the item and guide customers to discount and gift sections. Lowe’s uses an in-store navigation application to overlay the directional prompts so customers can shop easily.
VR for Real Estate
The combination of VR and real-estate mix can help businesses increase their revenue and improve customer experience. Potential customers can take a virtual tour, no matter where they may be. They can then visualize themselves in the house and decide if they wish to move on. This saves time for both the agents and customers. Agents can show properties to customers who are more likely to buy them. In contrast, buyers can inspect the ones they are interested in purchasing.
How to Pick Best Software Development Kit for Augmented Reality
Check out this article to see the impact Augmented Reality has on mobile app development. It is difficult to choose one SDK when there are so many Augmented Reality development kits on the market. To make the best choice when selecting a tool to develop augmented reality apps, you should consider the functionality of your app. Here are some important criteria we’d like you to think of:
Supported Platforms
When choosing an augmented reality software developer kit, it is important to determine which platform works best. Any SDK will work with iOS and Android, the most popular mobile operating systems. But what if you want to create an app for Windows Mobile instead? Some Augmented Reality SDKs can be used with the UWP, Universal Windows Platform.
This allows you to create AR apps that can be used on smartphones and computers running Windows. You can also develop AR apps for macOS using platforms of Augmented Reality. These functions are vital, and you may need them even if they are not required right now.
Type of License
Most developers and business owners pay attention to the type of license an AR SDK provides. There are many free AR SDKs available online. These SDKs are usually limited in their capabilities. You should choose an SDK with a commercial license to fully exploit the potential of augmented reality technology.
Cost
Cost is the most important factor when buying any product or service. It is a distinct characteristic of AR development tools. You can find many SDKs for free.
Not all of them are useful for a project. Open-source AR SDKs are best for those who want to start an AR development project. They are easily found online.
Paid SDKs are not the same. There are many pricing plans that can be used depending on the client’s needs. You should remember that complex applications require advanced tools and a business permit.
If you are going to make a great app, it is important that you have a budget.
Game Engine Support (Unity)
Unity is easily the most popular and fantastic game engine in the world. Although Unity is primarily used for creating PC games, it can still be used to make AR apps with fantastic impact.
Unity can be used to accomplish both traditional and cutting-edge tasks.
Smart Glasses Support
AR apps are largely accessible through smartphones today so smartphone users can view virtual objects on their phones. Smart glasses are a way to overlay AR objects in real life. Smart glasses offer an AR experience that is hands-free, unlike smartphones. Smart glasses are rapidly becoming more popular. You may still have your Microsoft HoloLens or Epson MoverioBT-300, Vuzix Blade 3000, Vuzix Blade 3000, and many other devices. It is possible to create AR mobile apps compatible with smart glasses.
Cloud Recognition
Your AR app will need more memory space if it requires multiple markers. Your app can store its features in the Cloud to avoid storing large amounts of data. An AR SDK must have cloud recognition support. Your AR app will become more immersive if it can identify more markers.
SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping)
Indoor navigation is where SLAM is most beneficial. Your AR application can use SLAM to map your user’s surroundings and track their movements. At the same time, the user moves around, and the application stores the locations of various objects in the room.
Geolocation
Geolocation support is essential if you want to build a location-based AR app. It’s useful for AR games and tourism apps. An AR SDK with geolocation support is a must if you plan to create a location-based AR app.
The Key Takeaway
It is now clear what Augmented Reality SDKs are and their significant features. This makes it easy to choose the right tool for creating AR solutions. First, you must decide which functionality you require in your mobile app. Next, review the SDKs and consider the price. Now you can create a mobile application that is truly unique.
Choosing the right AR app developer tool requires consideration of many factors. You must not only look for the best features but also consider your budget, so you don’t overspend.
There are many free tools you can use at the beginning. If you want to continue using advanced features, you can upgrade or choose another tool that suits your needs.
