5 Augmented Reality Applications to Help You See the World Around You Differently

Augmented Reality is the use of technology to add a layer of virtual elements to add to real life environments and improve the way we perceive things. It is an overlap of the virtual on the real, Iron Man’s helmet in the hit Marvel franchise of the same name, and the Avengers series, is probably the most widely recognizable example of this.

It is a pity that the level of advancement in technology used by that genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist in these flicks isn’t currently in existence, but it gives you an idea of what augmented reality technology is all about, and what it could possibly evolve into in the years to come.

Of course, that is all speculation and wishful thinking about where this technology could progress in the future, if not a completely unrealistic portrayal of the technology for entertainment purposes, but there are devices out there that are already moving in that very direction.

5 examples of augmented reality that are already making life simpler and better

1. Google Glass: In current times, IT powerhouse Google Inc. have a product called Google Glass in development, with a few pieces already in circulation. Probably the most widely known augmented reality device that currently exists this project is still very much ongoing. It has however already found real world applications. Most recently at the CHI Health Center where doctors are making innovative use of Google Glass where the doctor’s assistant can follow the treatment live and make notes while the doctor continues his or her examination unimpeded and without needing to disrupt the procedure to take notes. This news report elaborates. 10 doctors are already using this system, and 10 more will be given Google Glass devices in the near future. There is also a report of a new version of the Google Glass coming out soon, one built specifically for the workplace called the Enterprise Edition. This version gets updates including a repositioned power button, the ability to fold the Glass, a bigger battery, stronger Wi-Fi capabilities and a more robust build that also provides more heat insulation. You can explore Google Glass and all it has to offer here.
2. Microsoft HoloLens: Sticking with the augmented reality glasses theme, Microsoft have their own version called HoloLens. A more distinctive design, this completely independent computer that wraps around your head has a variety of uses, the biggest one being the ability to create and view holograms and superimpose them over reality. It also has voice control, gesture control and you can even use your gaze to interact with the device. The ‘developer edition’ is available now, and you can find out more about this technology and its uses (including its application by Swedish automotive giants Volvo) here.
3. Skully AR-1: Unlike most entries on this list, this is not an eyepiece. The Skully AR-1 is a motorcycle helmet has been built to change the biking experience as we know it. One of the biggest reasons for accidents is the inability to see what’s behind us when riding, and this helmet addresses just that. It has a 180-degree view camera mounted to the back, which relays a live semi-transparent video feed directly to the helmet’s visor allowing the rider to not just see where he or she is going, but also what is behind. The Heads-Up Display or HUD also gives you your current speed so that you don’t have to keep glancing down at the motorcycle’s console, and even has audio and visual navigation built-in, allowing you to use the helmet like any GPS device without compromising safety. You can find out more about this innovative safety gear here.
4. DAQRI Smart Helmet: Another helmet, this one has greater potential as an industry application. Unveiled at the recently held 2016 iteration of the Consumer Electronics Show, more popular known as CES, this helmet drew plaudits from both attendees and the technology press alike. This device is powered by Intel and sports a RealSense 3D camera. It helps wearers look not just at the surface of whatever object they are working with, but through augmented reality, look at projections of the inner workings of the objects, sort of like a live X-ray machine. From internal wiring of devices to schematics of a construction site, this device can help approach troubleshooting, planning and data collection from a completely new position. This device has already been tested in a variety of industry applications in disciplines as varied as aerospace, construction, and oil and gas among others, and it goes in sale in the first quarter of 2016. You can find out more about the DAQRI Smart Helmet here.
5. EyeCAD-connect system: Another augmented reality devices designed to function like glasses, the EyeCAD-connect is built specifically for dentists. Developed by dentist Sven Holtorf in association with IT bigwigs Epson, the glasses superimpose real-time data received from the dental scanner over the actual teeth of the patient. This allows him to digitally transfer his findings to his backroom staff so that they can design the filling or crown required based on this technology’s findings. Dentists no longer need to hold a camera in one hand while alternating his attention between the patient’s teeth and the screen that relays the video feed from the camera, making the whole process for efficient and streamlined. You can explore this device in detail here.

If you still think that these devices look too outlandish to make a fashion statement, one of the biggest criticisms some of these designs have received, then there is good news. If cramping your style is not a compromise you are willing to make in exchange of the many augmented reality applications provided by these devices, then lens eyewear powerhouse Zeiss has made smart glasses that look exactly like normal spectacles. There is not much information regarding these glasses ‘smart’ capabilities yet, but one to watch out for in the future.

Despite whatever might emerge from that particular venture, there’s no doubt that augmented reality has changed the way we look at perceive the world around us, both literally and metaphorically, and have entered a never-seen-before space (except in superhero comics!) in terms of pushing the boundaries of technology that’s ready for mass consumption.

About iXtentia: iXtentia -Mobile app development company, is a division of Extentia Information Technology offering custom application development services and Enterprise mobility solutions.