Augmented Reality and Mobile Apps
Augmented Reality (AR) made an explosive debut in 2016 when the popular Pokemon Go mobile game introduced AR to the masses. The game was championed for getting players off their couches and on their feet, chasing down Pokemon creatures all over the globe. Fast forward to 2019, and we are seeing AR used by several familiar brands.
Warby Parker
Raise your hand if you dread going to brick and mortar stores to find a new pair of sunnies or eyeglasses! I don’t know about you, but I find the vast selection of frames to be very overwhelming. If you also suffer from analysis paralysis check out the Virtual Try-On feature on the Warby Parker app.
From the comfort of your own home or favorite coffee shop, you can try (and retry) frames until your heart is content. Warby Parker is using AR and selfie mode to make selecting new frames effortless. Simply download the app, choose your style, select “try these on using your camera” and voila!
I’m loving the way this company is changing the way that the indecisive ( Me- 🙋) choose eyewear.
Geico
GEICO isn’t just producing hilarious commercials to promote their home, auto, renters, and life insurance policies. They are also integrating AR capabilities into their mobile app.
In addition to the features that are reserved for paying GEICO policyholders such as, roadside assistance, pay your bill, and ID card viewing. The GEICO app also includes a gas finder — which displays, station address, the distance for your current location, and real-time gas prices, local restaurants, nature parks, entertainment, and of course GEICO brick and mortar locations.
You can even “mark your car”. This app feature allows you to see the location and distance you are from your vehicle. Forgot where you parked at the grocery store? Have no fear, the GEICO app will point you in the right direction.
Overstock
This best in class retail mobile app gives users access to deals on stylish furniture, decor, and area rugs. But wait, there’s more! Overstock is also getting into the AR game.
Are you feeling wishy-washy about pulling the trigger on an armchair for your office? No worries! Just download the Overstock app, search for the item you would like to buy, and click the “view in my room” button. You can view the 3D objects by itself, against a white background, or you can switch to AR mode and place the item in your space.
Snapchat
With over 114 Million DAU during the month of May alone, Snapchat is probably one of the most well known and highly used forms of AR, present day. This app needs no introduction, the way that Snapchat is using AR to engage its users is revolutionary. Adults, children, and even pets are featured in snaps sent amongst friends daily.
Pokemon Sleep
Who would have thought you could gamify sleep?! The new Pokemon Sleep app, due to release in 2020, is doing just that. Players sleep patterns will be tracked by a built-in sleep monitoring system included in the new and improved Pokemon Go Plus +. The handheld device will monitor how long you sleep and the data collected each night will be transferred directly to your mobile device.
Details about how the game actually works have not been released- stay tuned to find out how Pokemon Sleep effects the popular AR game.
Porsche
Free Porsche, anyone?! Yes, please! Porsche has developed an AR Visualizer app that allows anyone to park a Porshe in their driveway, living room, or next to your office desk- the sky is the limit. No really, the app does not recognize the sky as a surface so you can’t park your new Porsche in the clouds. After you have downloaded the app and given access to your camera you can create the Porsche of your dreams. The technology feature allows you to view aerodynamics, vehicle concepts, battery charging location, and chosen model highlights. You can even drive it. Cool, right?!
Minecraft Earth
To commemorate their 10th Anniversary, Minecraft will be releasing a new mobile game centered around AR. A beta version of Minecraft Earth is planned for launch later this summer. According to the Minecraft website, games will be challenged to collect, explore, collaborate, and survive like never before.
Now that AR has expanded past the traditional mobile gaming apps the opportunities seem to be endless. The apps mentioned above are great examples of why jumping on the bandwagon might be a smart decision.
