The term “augmented reality” (AR) refers to a technology that superimposes digital data or virtual material over the physical world to produce an improved or “augmented” perception of reality. It creates an interactive and immersive experience by fusing components of the real world with digital sensory input, such graphics, sound, or video.
In order to use augmented reality, a device with cameras, sensors, and displays, such as a smartphone, tablet, smart glasses, or headset, is often required. These gadgets take a picture of the actual surroundings and instantly overlay it with virtual objects or data. The augmented content can be viewed and used by users just like it would be in real life.
In addition, In order to recognize and comprehend the user’s environment and enable the appropriate positioning and alignment of virtual elements, augmented reality (AR) technology relies on sensor data, computer vision algorithms, and accurate positioning. It can improve a number of elements of our lives, including entertainment, learning, gaming, navigation, design, marketing, and more.
AR can be classified into two main types:
- Marker-based AR: It uses predetermined markers, like QR codes or visual patterns, as points of recognition and tracking for the system. These markers are recognized by the device’s camera, which then causes the matching digital content to be shown.
- Markerless AR: This sort of AR, also referred to as location-based or geo-based AR, does not need particular markers. Instead, it uses GPS, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and other sensors to establish the user’s orientation and location and then aligns virtual items in that direction.