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The Future of Augmented Reality in 2021: What to Expect
Augmented reality (AR) has been around for several years, but recent advances in technology, particularly in 5G networks, artificial intelligence, and sensors, have propelled its development and adoption. AR overlays digital objects and information onto the real world, enabling users to enhance their perception, interaction, and productivity. AR has many applications in domains such as gaming, education, retail, healthcare, tourism, and industry. In 2021, AR is poised to expand its reach, functionality, and innovation. This article discusses some of the trends, challenges, and opportunities of the future of AR.
AR in Smartphones and Wearables
One of the main drivers of AR is the integration of AR features in smartphones and wearables. Many popular brands, such as Apple, Google, Samsung, and Huawei, have already incorporated AR in their devices through software frameworks like ARKit and ARCore. These frameworks provide developers with tools to create AR apps that can display 3D models, track objects and surfaces, recognize faces and gestures, and integrate with other sensors. In 2021, we can expect more AR apps that leverage the cameras, screens, and connectivity of smartphones and wearables to offer immersive and useful experiences. For example, AR shopping apps can enable users to try on clothes, furniture, or makeup virtually before buying, while AR navigation apps can provide directions and information overlaid on the real world.
AR in Smart Glasses and Headsets
Another trend in AR is the development of dedicated smart glasses and headsets that can deliver more advanced and comfortable AR experiences. Many companies, such as Microsoft, Magic Leap, Varjo, and Nreal, have released or announced AR glasses that feature high-resolution displays, spatial audio, hand tracking, and voice control. These glasses can enable users to see and interact with digital objects and environments in a more natural and immersive way than with smartphones. Furthermore, they can benefit industries that require hands-free and context-aware assistance, such as manufacturing, logistics, maintenance, and training. In 2021, we can expect more AR glasses and headsets that cater to different needs, preferences, and budgets. However, the adoption of AR glasses and headsets also faces challenges such as cost, privacy, comfort, and social acceptance.
AR in Gaming and Entertainment
AR has significant potential in gaming and entertainment, as it can create new forms of gameplay, social interaction, and storytelling. In 2020, the global AR gaming market reached $13 billion, and is expected to grow to $40 billion by 2024. AR games such as Pokemon Go, Minecraft Earth, and Wizards Unite have already demonstrated the appeal of mixing real and virtual worlds. However, the upcoming releases of AR games such as Pokemon Snap and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite AR Legacy could further enhance the immersion and interactivity of AR gaming. Moreover, AR can enable new forms of entertainment such as AR concerts, theater, or sports events, where virtual performers and effects can interact with the audience in real-time.
AR in Education and Training
AR also has promising uses in education and training, as it can provide visual and interactive learning experiences that enhance memory, engagement, and motivation. AR can represent complex concepts and data in intuitive and dynamic ways, as well as offer simulations and scenarios that simulate real-life situations. In 2020, the global AR education and training market reached $350 million, and is expected to increase to $1.5 billion by 2025. AR apps such as Civilizations AR and Boulevard AR can already offer learners immersive and informative journeys through history or culture. Moreover, AR can benefit training programs in industries such as healthcare, construction, or aviation, where hands-on practice and safety are crucial.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the future of AR in 2021 looks promising, as it can offer new ways to improve our perception, interaction, and productivity in various domains. Augmented reality in smartphones and wearables, smart glasses and headsets, gaming and entertainment, and education and training has vast potentials to expand and innovate. However, the adoption of AR also faces challenges such as technical limitations, user acceptance, and social implications. To fully realize the benefits of AR, we need to foster collaboration between researchers, developers, users, and regulators, and ensure that AR aligns with ethical and human-centered values.
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