How augmented reality works

How augmented reality works? Augmented reality is the superimposition of digital objects on top of a device’s camera video stream.

By the type of solution, augmented reality can be implemented:

  • as an application
  • web (in a browser)
  • within a social network

Application

The advantage of implementing AR in the application is the higher quality of content, as well as the possibility of different types of tracking: recognition of planes, markers, 3D-objects, face and their combinations. The disadvantage for the user is the need to download the application. This can be a barrier to taking advantage of augmented reality. And if the user decides to install the application, it can be prevented by a low internet speed or insufficient amount of memory in the phone.

An exception is the application pre-installed on the devices through which augmented reality is activated (for example, at an exhibition, in a museum, or at a point of sale).

Example of a case with augmented reality in an app (with the user installing it):

 

web

The advantage of implementing augmented reality in the web is the reduction of the barrier for the user: he does not need to download the application.

Types of tracking for augmented reality on the web: faces, markers and planes.

An example of a case study with augmented reality on the web:

We’ve figured out what type of implementation an augmented reality solution is. But how is AR activated?

In the app: the user downloads the app (he either knows the name of the app in advance or opens the app’s download page using the QR code from the promotional materials).

In the app, the user sees instructions on how to launch the augmented reality view (usually an icon, word or button).

Following these instructions, he sees a notification of permission to use the camera.

Web: the user opens the Internet page in the browser by pointing at the QR code from the advertising or other informational materials. Or goes directly to the desired site. On the page the user will be offered to allow the use of the camera.

 

After the user has authorized the camera on the device, he/she needs to point the device’s camera at the device:

-image target

It is a trigger to activate augmented reality.

The marker can be a 2D image.

Example

 

-plane

After scanning the plane, an object in augmented reality can be set anywhere, it will “fix” there.

Example

 

-3D object

Example: Mercedes A-class

 

-spatial AR 

Example

-face tracking

Example (AR effects in social media)

Each type of augmented reality solution serves specific business needs. We suggest you read the LikeXR AR cases and order augmented reality for your business. Augmented reality is an effective tool for solving business problems in different industries (from marketing to logistics) and for different functions (from marketing to sales).

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