AUGMENTED REALITY APPS AND BRANDS THAT UTILIZE THEM

Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality uses the features and visuals of the real world and incorporates virtual information. This virtual information consists of visual, audio, and other app-generated content. Pokémon Go is a famous example of Augmented Reality where users search for animated characters in real neighborhoods using their devices.

This technology is not new and has evolved over the last decade with implications across many industries. The basic difference between Augmented and Virtual Reality is that the latter is entirely virtual, meaning it does not use real-world features.

If you want your Brand to unleash the power of AR apps, it is vital to consult a Leading Mobile Application Development Company with the right expertise. We present the types of AR Apps and their benefits for different brands for a quick read. There are different types of AR apps according to functionality:

TYPES OF AUGMENTED REALITY (AR)

Marker Based AR

Marker Based AR Relies on a visual marker for activating the virtual content, such as scanning QR codes or facial structure to activate the animations on screen.

Markerless AR

Markerless AR does not need any visual marker to activate the virtual content. It uses hardware and software information for Simultaneous Localization And Mapping (SLAM). It then displays the virtual content on the screen. Markerless AR has four types:

• Projection-Based AR – Relies on projections to generate holographic images
• Location-Based AR – The content is positioned fixed in a physical space
• Overlay AR – Generates an enhanced 3D virtual image and lets users change colors and position
• Contour-Based AR – Also known as Outlining AR, creates silhouettes from real objects for users

BRANDS THAT UTILIZE AR APPS

The uses of this technology are as many as you can imagine. Planning a city’s skyline and the interiors of your rooms and offices was never this easy. The benefits have modernized architecture, production, e-commerce, travel, education, and marketing. We will discuss some brands reaping the benefits of AR Apps and enhancing their user experience.

IKEA PLACE

IKEA place modernizes furniture buying to a whole new level. It helps the users to virtually add 3D furniture models to their homes and consider the aesthetics before making any purchases. The feature allows users to select furniture colors and sizes that match the space available. The Brand is adding features to its app with time to enhance user experience.

GOOGLE LENS

Google lens combines the benefits of AR and Artificial Intelligence to enrich user lives. It lets you scan any landmark, text, or object through your phone. If you see any new animal or insect, scan it with google lens, and it will present you with all the information available.

Need translations of signboards while traveling in other countries? Just take out your phone and scan the board on Google Lens. Google Lens translates any text for you on screen. Click here for more information.

MAGICPLAN

Magicplan is more Architecture-oriented as it provides the mapping plan of a space just by scanning it and marking corners. It has many features, including field reports and sketches. You can generate 2D and 3D models of the scanned space accurately.

Magicplan has 5 million plus downloads but only offers up to two projects for free. With provisions centered around the planning and decoration phase, it is a powerful tool for contractors worldwide.

GOOGLE MAPS

Google Maps has reshaped its street view by incorporating high-tech AR tools and animations to guide you in a better way. You have a guiding fox on the screen, making it more engaging with visual and audio pointers to the desired path.

Many possibilities are opening up through AR technology, such as guiding color-blind and visually impaired people. Google is also continually improving its Maps for more functionality.

YOURCAM MAKEUP

With the digital possibilities opening up, the cosmetic industry is also adapting to modernize how we see makeovers. You can take AR-based selfies for a long list of makeover options to try virtually. It includes lipstick, blush, eye makeup, liners, and many other options.

It is surprising to see such options which were never available before. The whole struggle of trying different makeovers is going to end. So ladies! What are you waiting for? Grab your phones and enjoy while exploring new makeup styles for the next shining moment.

INSTAGRAM

The famous app hardly needs introduction. It started as a photography display app but then expanded to a new level by incorporating AR features in its app. Instagram stories existed long before, but then it decided to introduce AR filters to stories.

Many companies now use their stories segment for campaigns. Individual users have also enjoyed the fun side of trying thousands of effects available to engage with their social friends.

SNAPCHAT

Snapchat has been using AR features since day one, offering different visual effects and interactive filters. However, the app decided to take another leap to enhance the engagement of its users by introducing Snapchat Lens Studio.

Through this separate app, the developers and artists can now create new effects to enhance the AR experiences of consumers. Snapchat reports over 330 million daily active users on its main app, an unmatched opportunity for marketing professionals to appeal to their audience differently.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

With a market size of Mobile AR of around 16.6 Billion Dollars (Statista), brands that are missing the potential benefits must take action. The market is evolving, and delays in making the decision can cost you more in the future. Here are some recommendations to begin the process:

• Validate your AR App Idea
• Do competitive Market Research
• Define Feature Set for your AR App
• Hire a Professional Expert

We recommend developing an AR App for your Brand by hiring a Leading Mobile Application Development Company that can provide high-tech and intelligent solutions. We also advise you to follow our blogs for more information regarding Mobile and Web Applications.