Augmented reality

Full lap (Full definition)

Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive experience that enhances the real world with computer-generated perceptual information. It overlays digital content, such as images, sounds, and text, onto the user's view of the physical environment.

Unlike virtual reality (VR), which creates a completely immersive digital world, AR integrates digital elements with the existing environment, blurring the lines between the physical and virtual worlds. AR applications utilise various technologies, including cameras, sensors, and display devices, to understand and interact with the user's surroundings. These technologies enable the placement of virtual objects in the real world, allowing users to interact with them as if they were physically present. The digital content can be anchored to specific points in the real world or can move and change in response to the user's actions and the environment.

AR has found applications in numerous fields, including gaming, education, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. In gaming, AR can create immersive experiences that blend digital characters and objects with the user's surroundings. In education, AR can provide interactive learning experiences, such as exploring historical sites or visualising complex scientific concepts. In healthcare, AR can assist surgeons during operations or provide training simulations. Retailers use AR to allow customers to visualise products in their homes before purchasing, while manufacturers use AR for training and quality control.

The development of AR technology is continuously evolving, with advancements in areas such as computer vision, spatial mapping, and display technology. As AR technology becomes more sophisticated and accessible, it is expected to play an increasingly significant role in how we interact with the world around us.