5 Inspiring Augmented Reality Examples and Use Cases
When the physical and digital worlds collide, nothing remains the same. With emerging technologies such as augmented reality, companies, big and small, have new ways to connect with their customers.
Creating engaging content for consumers results in a memorable experience that will keep them spreading the word and returning for more.
What is Augmented Reality (AR)?
In simple terms, augmented reality (AR) is a digitally enhanced representation of the actual physical setting created by the use of digitized visual components, audio, and other sensory integration transmitted through technology.
The term “augmented” comes from the Latin term “augere,” which means “to add or enlarge.” Augmented reality is a technique for bringing a digital object into life. It is also referred to as mixed reality because virtual graphics are superimposed over physical objects to augment reality. Augmented reality is identical to virtual reality in that both artificial intelligence digital elements create a living experience.
AR is mainly used to digitally put an object on the surface of an existing physical body. AR enables us to engage with virtual objects as if they were physically there in front of us. Augmented reality technology is definitely in its early stages.
The device that supports the AR feature scans the item on which the digital imprint is to be made using the lens. The algorithm and software then calculate the object’s distance. Finally, the item is digitally superimposed on top of it. In fact, augmented reality is an enhanced representation of the actual physical environment.
5 Top Examples of Augmented Reality
The following 5 examples of augmented reality applications will undoubtedly inspire you to come up with your next big project.
Custom Packaging
Augmented reality has advanced to the point that corporations have embedded the concept in AR packaging in the past few years. Through packaging design, manufacturers can connect to the consumers on a deeper level by using this technology, which works with people’s cell phones. AR packaging, be it in the style of a contest or additional information, is a smart and innovative method to develop a deeper relationship with the brand.
Not only will the relationship get stronger, but the brand will become more distinctive as well. People are likely to engage in a playful manner with AR packaging. For example, a food product can supply clients with recipes and coupons.
A good example is the McDonald’s World Cup application which turns the iconic fry packaging into a soccer game. Augmented reality may be utilized to express your brand’s story. And, ultimately, it causes others to speak about it.
Architecture
Blueprints provide a rough idea of what to be expected in a new space, and 3D models help to express that information even further. These two principles can be blended when using AR in architecture.
Business Cards
Giving your business card to a prospect is all about making an excellent first impression. You can leave a lasting impression on them by using augmented reality business cards. Moreover, there’s only so much space on that little business card layout.
Augmented reality business cards include additional space for info, such as your personal portfolio website. Some even allow you to use a voice-over to accompany the internet data.
Books
Kids already have active minds, but now stories may really fly off the pages. A variety of augmented reality children’s books are available, with virtual material displayed on top of every page. The virtual motion and content are all predefined on each page.
But what if the information on the website changed? There are no restrictions with coloring books, save that you must color within the lines. This Disney technology displays what the tiny Picasso is sketching in 3D by precisely recreating what is on the page in real-time.
Food Menu
Imagine being able to see what the actual food looks like before you make an order. An augmented reality menu allows you to browse the entire menu before selecting your order.
This application of augmented reality technology opens up a plethora of opportunities for comparable organizations in the service industry to go above and beyond for their consumers. Nail salons, for example, may offer their customers color and style variations before requiring them to make a decision.
Try AR and open a world of possibilities
As these 13 examples demonstrate, there are countless uses for augmented reality technology that are just waiting to be discovered.
Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries!