Which industries make the most use of augmented reality?
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology on the rise. Although it was initially limited to entertainment, more and more industries are implementing it in their production processes. In addition, augmented reality training optimizes the training processes of professionals. Architecture, medicine and engineering are three sectors in which AR has already proven to be a differential factor. The main factor that makes these industries benefit from augmented reality is that it allows, quickly and easily, the visualization of virtual content superimposed on the real environment. In this way, an engineer can, for example, perform the assembly of an engine directly on a virtual template visualized using augmented reality. In fact, engineering is an industry in which reality plays a very prominent role. Many automotive firms, such as BMW or Rolls-Royce, have implemented augmented reality training and education. Using augmented reality glasses, engineers perform assembly on a virtual recreation of the vehicle. They can also view holograms with technical information on the different parts, all while continuing to work in the physical environment. Augmented reality agencies have developed their products to the point where they can meet the needs of the most demanding sectors.
Thanks to AR, architects can, for example, superimpose a virtual recreation of a building under construction on top of the
plans. Similarly, this recreation can be used to optimize the building construction process. Medicine is another sector where augmented reality has multiple applications. Using AR, interactive recreations of the various organs can be generated at any scale. This makes it possible, for example, to visualize in an operating room the organ on which surgery is to be performed. It also helps doctors to explain to their patients the diseases and conditions they may suffer from. These recreations allow the patient, for example, to see a recreation of his eye that he can interact with (zoom, rotate, etc.) to better understand what his cataract operation will consist of. Industry and augmented reality: the culmination of a long process In the public’s top of mind, augmented reality is usually always associated with the same products: Pokémon GO, the Ikea app or the Instagram puppy filter. It is true that, in the first instance, this type of technology is mainly used in the video game and entertainment industry. Moreover, the great AR flop par excellence has been engraved in the collective subconscious: Google Glasses. The commercial failure of Google’s device meant that, in part, the general public considered this technology as a minor tool. Augmented reality companies have been working very hard for many years to overcome this “bad reputation”. First of all, by developing high quality and high fidelity applications.
Secondly, making these applications easy to apply in the professional environment. Virtual reality vs. augmented reality: which one to invest in? Virtual reality (VR) also offers solutions for this type of industry. Virtual reality tools have a great immersive capacity, and make it possible to simulate environments that are difficult to recreate in the physical environment. However, for certain tasks, AR offers better solutions. The fact of being able to work directly on the physical environment allows the user a great precision. In addition, augmented reality is generally cheaper and easier to implement in the industry than VR. In short, it is not a question of which technology is better or worse. Each with its own characteristics, augmented reality and virtual reality are capable of meeting the needs of a wide range of sectors.
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