Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented Reality, or AR, is a type of technology that adds digital images, sounds or information on top of the real world. You can see AR by using special glasses, phone cameras or tablets. AR does not create a whole new world like Virtual Reality (VR) — it adds to what you can already see.
Benefits of Augmented Reality
AR has been developed to make experiences more interactive, helpful and fun.
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Adds useful information to what you see
(e.g. directions or names of objects) -
Makes learning more interesting and hands-on
(e.g. showing 3D models in the classroom) -
Improves shopping, gaming and entertainment
(e.g. seeing how furniture looks in your room) -
Helps people with tasks in real time
(e.g. showing how to fix something step-by-step)
Current Applications of Augmented Reality
AR is already used in many ways today:
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Games and apps (e.g. Pokémon GO lets players see and catch creatures in the real world)
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Social media filters (e.g. funny masks or effects on Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok)
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Education (e.g. apps that show 3D objects and facts in science and history lessons)
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Shopping apps (e.g. seeing how furniture or glasses look before buying)
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Navigation apps (e.g. showing arrows and directions on your phone screen)
Augmented Reality's impact on Society
Education
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AR makes learning more interactive and fun with 3D models and information.
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Some schools may not have access to the latest AR technology.
Work
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AR helps workers do jobs more safely and quickly with on-screen guides.
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However, not all jobs or industries are ready for AR yet.
Environment
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AR apps can help reduce waste (e.g. trying items virtually before buying).
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AR devices still need power and materials to make, which can affect the environment.
Future uses of Augmented Reality
AR is improving fast and could be used in more ways in the future:
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Smarter glasses that show useful information without needing a phone
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Training and work help (e.g. step-by-step guides when fixing machines)
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More advanced games and experiences that mix real and digital worlds
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Virtual meetings where people appear in your room as 3D holograms
Augmented Reality adds digital information to the real world. It helps make learning, working and playing more fun and interactive. AR is already part of many apps and games, and in the future, it may become a normal part of everyday life.