Augmented reality (AR) refers to the technology that superimposes computer-generated images and information onto the real world. AR software facilitates users overlaying digital information on top of the real world and has a wide range of potential applications.
The current state of technology makes it so that starting an augmented reality software project for a company is a wise move. By using augmented reality, anyone can create an interactive experience for customers that allows them to see products in a whole new way.
Additionally, AR helps save money on marketing and advertising costs by creating an immersive experience for customers without having to print or ship physical materials.
There are several different ways that one can use AR in business. For example, one can use it to create an interactive display in their store that allows customers to see what their products look like in use.
Companies can also use AR to create a virtual showroom for their products that customers can explore from the comfort of their own homes. Additionally, they can create an interactive experience for website visitors that will allow them to see the products in accessible ways. Augmented reality also helps teams collaborate remotely.
No matter how someone decides to use it in business, it’s important to remember that the technology is still in its relatively early stages. Even in these early stages, there are several augmented reality software platforms to choose from, and it’s important to select one that is right for the company.
Kinds of AR Software
There are many different types of AR software available on the market today. Below are just a few of the most popular use cases for AR currently:
- GamesGames such as Pokémon GO, Ingress, and Virus Zombies use AR technology to create an immersive gaming experience.
- Shopping Apps: AR shopping apps allow users to view products in their home environment before making a purchase. Popular AR shopping apps include IKEA Place, Target, and Amazon.
- Navigation Apps: They provide turn-by-turn directions and help users find nearby businesses and attractions. Popular AR navigation apps include Google Maps and Waze.
- Social Media: These apps allow users to share photos and videos with friends and followers in an AR environment. Snapchat is a great example of a popular AR social media app.
- Educational Apps: They provide educational content in an AR environment. Popular AR educational apps include NASA’s Spacecraft 3D and Google Arts & Culture.
Best Augmented Reality Languages and Frameworks
There are several languages and frameworks available for developing AR applications.
- Unity: Unity is a popular game engine for developing augmented reality applications. It offers a powerful scripting system and a wide range of features for creating interactive 3D content.
- Vuforia: Vuforia is an AR SDK to use with several different programming languages. It offers robust tracking capabilities and a wide range of features for creating AR applications.
- ARToolKit: ARToolKit’s an open-source AR SDK working with a variety of programming languages such as C#, C++, Java, etc. It offers excellent tracking capabilities and a wide range of additional features.
- OpenCV: OpenCV is a powerful computer vision library. It is helpful for image processing and computer vision.
- OpenGL: OpenGL is a cross-platform graphics API for developing AR apps. It is mainly applicable for creating interactive 3D graphics.
Augmented Reality Software Development
As with any new technology, there’s a race to be the first to market with a viable product. This led to a boom in augmented reality software development. There are a few key players in this space, but the market is still very much in its infancy.
The 2 main companies in the AR software development space are Google and Apple. Google’s AR platform, Tango, was in development for a few years and used special hardware to map the world around it via AR experiences. However, Google canceled the project.
Apple, on the other hand, only recently announced its AR platform, ARKit. ARKit runs on Apple’s A9 and A10 processors and enables developers to create AR experiences for the iPhone and iPad.
Microsoft is also working on its AR platform, HoloLens. HoloLens is a standalone headset that enables users to interact with digital content in the real world. While there are several other players, including Facebook, Samsung, and HTC, these companies aren’t as far along in their development.
BairesDev Consultancy in Augmented Reality Projects for Your Business
Companies looking to take their business to the next level with AR must find a reputable consulting and outsourcing firm that specializes in this cutting-edge technology. It’s important to find a team of experts who can advise on how to best use this tool for specific business needs—and BairesDev knows just how to accomplish these goals.
Businesses have the ability to use AR to create immersive and interactive experiences for customers. It’s usable for everything from enhancing product demonstrations to providing training and instructions for employees. AR is also helpful in the creation of marketing material that’s more engaging and memorable for the target audience.
When selecting a consulting firm, companies must ask about their experience with AR projects. It’s also important to inquire about their process for developing and implementing AR solutions. Decision-makers must ask for references from past clients so that they can get an idea of the quality of their work.
For businesses choosing BairesDev as their AR partner, the team then works to assess the business needs and objectives. They’ll then develop a custom AR solution tailored to their specific requirements. This solution undergoes testing and refinement until it meets approval. After the finalization of the solution, BairesDev will provide all the necessary support to ensure its successful implementation.
There are many benefits of working with a third-party software development company, such as:
- Expert guidance and support throughout the AR project development process
- Wide-ranging services, including AR app development, AR content creation, and AR platform integration
- Time and cost savings by developing an AR solution that’s tailored to the specific needs and budget of the company
- Impact maximization of a company’s AR projects by developing high-quality, innovative, and user-friendly AR solutions
