The DL on AR: Importance, Considerations, and Hot Products

So, let's get the down-low on AR-supporting devices, AR headwear, and AR software.

Devices

Today, our devices can do more and more. Particularly, much of our entertainment can now be accessed through any device with internet connectivity, including our phones. And, as this entertainment continues to experience a technological revolution, increasing numbers of such entertainment have complex elements such as AR included.

Just take something like online casino games. Blackjack enthusiasts in the UK can play Live All Bets Blackjack online on their preferred device. This game is live streamed to players in real time, with a human dealer. The dealer has a physical pack of cards, which then are transformed into virtual cards for each player's hand, which appear as if on the table. With this in mind, having a device that can quickly and reliably process complex graphic features such as this is invaluable for accessing immersive entertainment options.

In addition to accessing AR functionality, devices are beginning to include features that allow users to create media with AR. For example, Google Pixel smartphones have a camera feature called Add Me, which is currently available on the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold. This allows someone to take a photo of their friends or family, before standing in the same place themselves. Using AR, the graphics of the first photo are layered over the new image, so that everyone can be captured in a perfectly-positioned photograph.

Picture 1 of The DL on AR: Importance, Considerations, and Hot Products

Glasses and Headsets

Firstly, it is important to clarify the difference between AR eyewear and those for virtual reality (VR). As VR creates a whole new interactive environment, they are essentially wearable screens. However, AR imposes digital elements onto the real world, and so must allow users to clearly see their surroundings, whilst also providing discreet technology to overlay onto this view.

For this reason, many AR headgear take the form of glasses. Some of the best AR glasses on the market include the XReal Air 2, Rokid Max, and, arguably the most popular of all, the Ray-ban Meta Smart Glasses. The latter of these has a 12MP camera, social media integration, and can be operated by voice activation for improved accessibility.

That said, some traditional headsets - whether they are mixed reality or tailored - can support AR. These headsets include the Apple Vision Pro, Varjo XR-4, Oculus Meta Quest 3, and the Microsoft Hololens 2. However, it is important to note that they may have more limited fields of vision due to their more bulky design.

Picture 2 of The DL on AR: Importance, Considerations, and Hot Products

Software

Of course, we couldn't talk about enjoying AR media without having a brief look at some of the best softwares for creating them. This software can have a transformative impact on a wide range of different sectors - from entertainment to architecture, educators to healthcare, and even in your average business.

Some of the top AR tools include Unity, which is best for game development and 3D interactive content; Vossle, for web-based AR; Scope AR, for business-based AR applications; VR Maker by iStaging, for 360 tours, interior design, and real estate; and Zakeke, for customization.

And there you have it - the importance, considerations, and hot products for AR-supporting devices, headwear, and software. All that's left to do is explore, and find the solutions right for you.

Marvin Fry

Update 26 August 2024