Table of contents:
Core Types of Augmented Reality
Examples of Augmented Reality Applications in Different Industries
By blending digital information with the real world, Augmented Reality brings a new dimension to the process of visualizing, planning and executing complex projects. Whether used for training, installation guidance or design reviews, this technology has the potential to streamline processes and reduce errors. But with so many options, what types of AR solutions are available?
In this article, we will explore the different types of Augmented Reality and provide examples of each in use, helping you understand the variety of approaches and what may best fit your unique needs and goals.
What Is Augmented Reality (AR)?
Different types of AR are alike in that they overlay computer-generated images, text, sounds, or videos on a real-world environment, enhancing our interaction with it. Unlike Virtual Reality (VR), which creates completely immersive digital environments, AR creates a hybrid experience that seamlessly merges the physical and virtual. This is achieved through various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart glasses, and headsets, each offering a unique approach to augmenting reality.
The global Augmented Reality market is projected to reach $198 billion by 2025. This explosive growth is driven by advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), computer vision, and mobile technology, which are making AR experiences more accessible than ever before.
In fact, a recent study found that 71% of consumers believe AR/VR solutions can provide them with unique experiences they can’t get anywhere else. AI is playing a crucial role in this expansion, powering sophisticated features such as object recognition, real-time tracking, and personalized content generation.
Core Types of Augmented Reality
As an established outsourcing development company with a proven track record, at HQSoftware we can categorize Augmented Reality into two core types.
1. Marker-based AR
This is perhaps the most familiar type of AR, which relies on specific visual markers to trigger an AR experience. Think of those playful AR filters on social media, or the interactive displays at museums. These markers, often QR codes or images, are recognized by the AR application, triggering the overlay of digital content onto the real world.
How it works: This type of AR uses a camera and some form of visual marker, such as a QR/Barcode or an image, to produce an AR effect when the marker is sensed by the device.For instance, IKEA’s popular app allows users to scan a marker or simply point their phone at a space, and virtually place furniture in their home to see how it would look.
2. Markerless AR
This AR type doesn’t require any predefined markers. Instead, it uses sophisticated computer vision and tracking algorithms to understand the environment and superimpose digital content. This allows for more dynamic and natural AR experiences. Imagine a virtual guide appearing in your living room as you explore a new product, or a 3D model of a building seamlessly blending into your surroundings.
How it works: Instead of markers, markerless Augmented Reality uses a GPS, digital compass, velocity meter, or accelerometer embedded in the device to provide data based on your location.
For instance, Google Maps uses markerless Augmented Reality to help users navigate their surroundings. The “Live View” feature overlays virtual information, such as arrows and directions, onto the real-world view through the phone’s camera.
For your convenience, the table below provides a basic overview of the two different types of Augmented Reality.
| Feature | Marker-based AR | Markerless AR |
| Marker Requirement | Yes (QR codes or images) | No |
| Tracking Method | Recognizes specific markers | Computer vision & tracking algorithms |
| Immersion | Limited, depends on marker visibility | High, blends seamlessly with environment |
| Applications | Social media filters, interactive displays, educational apps | Gaming, retail, navigation, product visualization |
| Technology Used | Camera, visual markers | GPS, sensors |
Overall, AR is finding its way into a wide range of industries, from healthcare to retail. For a better picture, let’s take a closer look at some real-world examples of each type of AR.
Examples of Augmented Reality Applications in Different Industries
Here are some of the AR solutions we’ve developed at HQSoftware, which demonstrate how this technology is creating new possibilities.
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Marker-based AR festival guide app
To promote an ethnic music art festival and boost user engagement, we’ve developed a mobile app featuring marker-based AR experiences. The app uses smartphone cameras as AR scanners to trigger interactive experiences. When visitors point their phones at designated markers, they’re treated to audiovisual content that introduces them to the bands and singers.
We have successfully launched the app on the App Store and Google Play. After the festival, the app garnered over 3,100 downloads, demonstrating its effectiveness in reaching a wide audience.
An AR real estate app
Another example is a mobile app that uses AR to provide real estate information by scanning buildings. It has proved effective in helping users navigate the market more efficiently. An iOS-compatible AR mobile app allows users to scan pre-defined buildings, identify them, and instantly access sale or rental information. Furthermore, the system’s adaptability allows for integrating GPS navigation, expanding its reach to nearby properties and driving increased sales and rentals.
The engaging format of the information has led to increased sales and rental services by enabling users to simply point their iPhones or iPads at buildings.
AR underground cable mapping app
Partnering with HQSoftware, our client gained a powerful mobile app that combines accurate satellite navigation with Augmented Reality capabilities for trench scanning. This innovative solution, known as Groundhawk, empowers end-users to scan trenches, pinpoint precise geolocation, capture photos and videos, and access a comprehensive map showcasing the territory, topography, and essential data.
By streamlining measurement processes, simplifying documentation, and enabling real-time work monitoring, Groundhawk increased work efficiency by up 48% and accelerated project completion by 1.7 times.
SaaS platform for interactive AR content
To create and deploy interactive marker-based and markerless campaigns with ease, our development team has engineered a powerful Augmented Reality platform.This intuitive tool allows users to design complex AR experiences, even without advanced technical skills, and seamlessly integrate them into campaigns.
The system incorporates advanced features such as data analytics, geolocation, and personalization, ensuring a tailored and engaging user experience. The platform’s scalability and robust middleware enable it to handle high loads and to seamlessly integrate with third-party services, ensuring a flexible and adaptable solution. As a result, our client achieved an increase in engagement of up to 5 times.
Mobile AR building viewer
Our fully functional AR mobile app empowers users to visualize potential construction projects on building sites, providing a clearer understanding of future land development. Using GPS navigation, it’s possible to explore 3D models from any angle, whether from afar, close up, or even from the water. This innovative solution has proved successful, leading to a 42% increase in investments for our client.
When in close proximity to a location, users can switch to AR mode to visualize the building in its real-world size. If multiple 3D models are available for a location, users can easily select or slide between them. Furthermore, the app supports marker and QR code integration, enabling users to locate 3D buildings based on the relative positions of these markers.
As mentioned above, Augmented Reality comes in various forms. Below we will clarify each type and highlight those we integrate within HQSoftware.
Key Types of Markerless AR
Markerless AR is at the forefront of AR types, paving the way for more immersive and interactive experiences. Let’s explore the key Augmented Reality applications, highlighting their potential impact on various industries.
Projection-based Augmented Reality
This type of AR utilizes projectors to cast digital images directly onto real-world surfaces. This creates a more immersive experience, blending digital and physical elements in a unique way. Think of interactive museum exhibits, or even Augmented Reality displays in retail stores that project virtual product information onto shelves.
This involves projecting synthetic light onto physical surfaces and, in some cases, allows for interaction with it. It detects user interaction with a projection by its deformations. One example is a device that projects AR graphics onto real-world objects for events or art installations. Another example is an interactive storefront where projections on shop windows react to the movements of passersby.
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Location-based Augmented Reality
Imagine walking down a street on vacation and seeing historical information about the buildings you’re admiring pop up on your phone screen. Location-based AR is bringing these experiences to life, enriching our daily lives and opening up new avenues for exploration and discovery.
The applications of location-based AR are vast and growing. From tourism and navigation to gaming and retail, this technology is revolutionizing industries by providing immersive and interactive experiences. Imagine using your phone to virtually try on clothes in a store window, or exploring a museum exhibit with interactive elements that come to life through your device. Location-based AR blurs the lines between the digital and physical worlds, creating a more engaging and informative reality for everyone.
Contour-based Augmented Reality
This method allows for a more natural and intuitive integration of digital elements into our physical surroundings. Unlike marker-based AR, which relies on specific visual markers, contour-based AR can recognize and interact with a wider range of objects, making it more versatile and adaptable.
Picture pointing your camera at a table and seeing a virtual game board materialize on its surface. Contour-based AR makes these scenarios possible by recognizing the shape and edges of objects, allowing for a more seamless and engaging Augmented Reality experience. This technology holds immense potential for various applications, from interactive gaming and educational tools to product visualization and design prototyping.
Superimposition-based AR
Superimposition-based Augmented Reality hinges on object recognition to seamlessly replace or enhance the original view with an updated augmented perspective, either partially or entirely. This involves using computer vision techniques to identify and locate the target object within the real-world environment.
Sophisticated algorithms, often based on deep learning, analyze images to recognize objects with high accuracy. This process typically involves rendering 3D models, applying transparency effects, and using depth perception to ensure the virtual content appears natural and integrated within the real world.
For example, surgeons can use AR to overlay a patient’s medical imaging data, such as an MRI or CT scan, onto the patient’s body during surgery.
To sum up, the key types of markerless Augmented Reality we’ve examined demonstrate the power of this technology to create seamless and engaging experiences. By removing the need for physical markers, AR allows for greater flexibility and accessibility, making it a valuable tool across various industries. As these technologies continue to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative and transformative applications of markerless Augmented Reality.
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Business Development Manager
Choose HQSoftware’s Solutions for Your Needs
HQSoftware stands out as a leader in providing tailored AR solutions designed to meet the unique needs of various industries. Here’s why HQSoftware should be your go-to choice:
- Expertise. HQSoftware boasts a team of professionals with extensive experience in developing cutting-edge AR applications. Our expertise spans across different types of AR technologies, ensuring we can deliver solutions that are both innovative and practical.
- Customized solutions. Understanding that each business has unique requirements, at HQSoftware we offer customized AR solutions tailored to your specific needs.
- Proven experience. HQSoftware has a portfolio of successful AR projects across various sectors, including education, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, etc.
- Comprehensive services. From initial consultation and concept development to design, implementation, and support, we provide end-to-end AR services development.
Ready to unlock the potential of AR? Contact us today to discuss your specific needs and explore how we can help you create effective AR solutions.
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Having founded the company in 2001, uses his broad knowledge to drive the company forward. Ready to share his wisdom on software development and technology insights
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