Augmented reality (AR) technology has been around for decades, but it wasn’t until 2008 that the term “augmented reality” was first used. That year, a group of researchers at the University of Illinois published a paper titled “A Survey on Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality: Applications, Research Issues, Future Directions,” which provided an overview of the state-of-the-art in AR and VR technology.
The Early Days of AR
AR technology can be traced back to the early days of computer graphics. In the 1960s and 70s, researchers began experimenting with ways to overlay digital images on top of the real world. One of the earliest examples of this was the “Mixed Reality System” developed by Ivan Sutherland in 1968. This system allowed users to draw 3D shapes onto a piece of paper, which were then projected onto a screen in front of them.
In the 1980s, researchers at the University of Arizona developed the “Head-Mounted Display” (HMD), which allowed users to view 3D graphics while wearing a headset. This technology laid the foundation for modern AR devices such as smart glasses and headsets.
The Rise of Mobile AR
In recent years, mobile AR has become increasingly popular, thanks in large part to the widespread adoption of smartphones and tablets. One of the most notable examples of this is the “Pokemon Go” app, which was launched in 2016 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The app used AR technology to allow users to hunt for virtual creatures in their real-world surroundings.
Another popular mobile AR app is “Ikea Place,” which allows users to try out different pieces of furniture in their homes using AR. This app has been downloaded millions of times and has helped IKEA customers make more informed purchasing decisions.
The Future of AR
AR technology is constantly evolving, and we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the coming years. Some of the key areas where AR is likely to have a big impact include:
- Healthcare: AR technology has already been used to help doctors perform surgeries more accurately and efficiently. In the future, we could see AR being used to provide real-time guidance during procedures, as well as to help patients recover from injuries more quickly.
- Education: AR technology could revolutionize the way we learn by allowing us to experience educational content in a more immersive and interactive way. For example, students could use AR to explore historical sites or to practice science experiments in a virtual lab.
- Retail: AR technology could be used to help retailers create more engaging shopping experiences for their customers. For example, customers could use AR to try on clothes virtually before making a purchase, or to see how furniture would look in their home before buying it.
Summary
In conclusion, augmented reality technology has come a long way since its inception in the 1960s. From Ivan Sutherland’s “Mixed Reality System” to the wildly popular “Pokemon Go” app, AR has proven to be a powerful tool for engaging users and enhancing their experiences. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more exciting applications in fields such as healthcare, education, and retail.