Augmented reality (AR) is an environment (a part of the real world), which is complemented by digital data using modern devices – computers, tablets or smartphones.
AR has been constantly evolving and every day we get more and more new information about the introduction of certain elements of augmented reality in our life. Talks about dynamic AR development can be easily confirmed by statistical data: the market for augmented reality elements has grown by almost $ 3 billion over the past few years, which is comparable to such industries as defense, advertising, and medicine.
Some interesting facts about AR
Despite the fact that augmented reality has been known for a long time, there are still little-known facts related to this area:
- The term 'augmented reality' is relatively new – it was firstly applied in 1990 and its creation is attributed to Thomas Caudell, who at that time worked in the research center of the Boeing company. To date, AR is an indispensable component for air flights safety: it is used to visualize the route and landing path. In turn, some pilots of advanced fighters use helmets with augmented reality elements that allow to see the world around you, as if there is no barrier between the pilot and the surrounding reality in the form of a cabin.
- Augmented reality is mistakenly placed next to mixed reality as a separate term. But in fact, AR should be perceived as part of or even a substructural element of mixed reality.
- AR involves not only adding digital objects to the real world, but also removing real objects from the real world. However, the second possibility is not practically applied because it is difficult to use it for good or profit.
- Oddly enough, but smartphones, which are actively used to create augmented reality, are not considered to be devices intended for this purpose. Specialized AR devices are now understood as structures that are put on the head and those devices that transmit information directly to the retina of the eye.
- Visualization of offside in football is also a prime example of AR.
As we can see, augmented reality has already been quite actively used in everyday life. So, Touristl virtual guide project will soon become a real revolution in the world of tourism and hiking. With its help, augmented reality will allow to interact with the surrounding historical and cultural city landmarks in an entertaining way, to learn information about the sights in an easy and relaxed manner.
