Virtual Reality and the closely related Augmented Reality technologies have been around for just a few years. But they have already started to make waves in major parts of our lives. From animated filters to games to training environments, both technologies hold immense possibilities. We already know Walmart uses VR to train its employees before they move to their respective positions. Using VR and AR for shopping is another interesting use.
AR, VR, and Trends to Watch in 2019
AR and VR both offer interesting potential to change the way we do things. VR involves an immersive, computer-generated world. AR involves overlaying graphics on our view of the real world. The possibilities are seemingly limitless. Many leading companies have already jumped aboard the AR/VR bandwagon. Some big names include Facebook, Toyota, Walmart, and Google. The technology grows more sophisticated every day. With every new development comes even more possibilities for applications in real life. This blog explores the following 5 AR and VR trends to watch out for in 2019:
- Increased Use in Teaching and Training
- Using AI to Enhance VR and AR
- VR in Consumer Entertainment
- AR Supported Vehicles
- AR and VR based Social Environments
Let’s dive right into these interesting trends that may come to pass this year.
Increased Use in Teaching and Training
Augmented and virtual reality have unique applications in the world of training and teaching. Virtual reality environments allow students to learn sensitive skills and knowledge. All without the associated risks in the real world. You can theoretically train anyone to fly a plane, perform a surgery, repair an engine, and just about any other technical skill. On the other hand, AR augments learning in real-time, real-world environments. By overlaying graphics and information on your view of the real world, AR can help you identify hazards and objectives.
Walmart uses Oculus Go headsets to train its staff in best practices and equipment. The U.S. Army entered into an agreement with Microsoft to use HoloLens in comprehensive military training. Both AR and VR are very useful because they offer risk-free and reduced-cost solutions. This is well-suited to training employees and teaching students.
Using AI to Enhance VR and AR
One of the best uses of AI in use in AR and VR is computer vision. This AI-based technology allows a computer to recognize what it “sees” through a camera or other visual input. The computer then uses AR to highlight and label specific objects in its field of vision. As technology improves, VR will also see AI improvements in its computer-generated environments.
VR in Consumer Entertainment
This one is not so much a new trend as an improving one. People have been using VR headsets for a few years for entertainment at home. But there are two major limitations to most consumer VR headsets. The first is that most require you to connect to a computer via a cable, limiting your range of motion. The second is that cable-free headsets often have a low-powered display. This results in an environment lacking immersive quality. Developers like Oculus and Vive have announced plans to manufacture stand-alone VR headsets. These will come with high-powered displays and batteries. This will ultimately improve the immersive experience for consumers.
AR Supported Vehicles
One area which we can expect AR to make a big hit in is vehicles and automobiles. In-car AR has gained a lot of attention over the last few years. One example in DriveAR by Nvidia. The technology makes use of a dashboard-mounted display to overlay graphics on to camera footage around the car. It highlights hazards, landmarks, and even right-of-way situations. AliBaba has taken a different direction with its own vehicle AR tech called WayRay. This tech projects graphic overlays right on to your windscreen. It offers real-time feedback without the driver having to take their eyes off the road. Both technologies aim to make driving safer and easier, especially for beginners.
AR and VR based Social Environments
Finally, we come to the emerging trend of social VR and AR environments. Spatial is a company making waves by introducing AR office tools for boardroom meetings and presentations. Facebook purchased Oculus in 2016 with plans to incorporate VR into social media. As VR/AR headsets improve, we could see more companies incorporating it. You could even have a virtual exchange with a windows and doors calgary in the near future. We already use AR filters on Instagram and Snapchat to socialize, but that is a very consumer-facing application. Technological improvements can open up more possibilities.
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