What are the Different Types of Augmented Reality?

From futuristic visions in movies to interactive experiences on your phone, augmented reality (AR) has rapidly transformed from a niche technology to a powerful tool with wide-ranging applications.

AR overlays virtual objects onto the real world, creating a blend of physical and digital environments. This innovative technology is revolutionizing the way we interact with everything from games and education to shopping and healthcare.

Due to recent advancements in the IT sector, AR comes in different types in the market. And in this article, that’s what we’re going to talk about. In this post, we’ll define the different types of augmented reality in detail.

What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented reality (AR) is an advanced technology that allows digitally generated 3D objects to be overlaid in real-world scenarios using an AR device.  In other words, AR can be defined as a term for technology that uses cameras and specialized AR software to analyze what the camera sees.

The virtual object and the device's camera input appear on the screen in the real environment. This allows users to interact with both the physical world and the virtual object, enriching the experience with data.

However futuristic it may sound, AR technology is easy to use. While still developing, worldwide spending on AR technologies is estimated to reach $45.1 billion by 2022.

The technology is used across various industries, including marketing, healthcare, education, product development, manufacturing, etc.

AR is used to scan real-life surroundings, simultaneously analyze the scanned image, and show users virtual content related to the real world in front of the camera. Looking at the screen, the user sees the natural object and the information presented by AR devices simultaneously, shown in 3D.

How does AR Work?

Augmented reality starts with a camera-equipped device—such as a smartphone, a tablet, or smart glasses with AR software. When a user points the device and looks at an object, the software recognizes it through computer vision technology.

The device then downloads information about the object from the cloud, just as a web browser loads a page via a URL.

A fundamental difference is that the AR information is presented in a 3-D “experience” superimposed on the object rather than in a 2-D page on a screen. What the user sees, then, is part real and part digital.

AR can provide a view of the real-time data flowing from products and allow users to control them by touchscreen, voice, or gesture. For example, a user might touch a stop button on the digital graphic overlay within an AR experience—or say “stop”—to send a command via the cloud to a product.

An operator using an AR headset to interact with an industrial robot might see superimposed data about the robot’s performance and gain access to its controls.

Read More: New Technology Trends in the IT Sector

Types of Augmented Reality

There are different types of augmented reality, however, there are five primary types that we’re going to discuss in detail below:

• Marker-based AR
  
  

• Markerless AR
  
  

• Projection-based AR
  
  

• Superimposition-based AR
  
  

• Location-based AR

1. Marker-based AR

This type of AR, also known as image recognition AR, relies on a QR code or visual marker to trigger the interactive experience. Users scan the marker with their smartphone camera, activating the visual effects. They can then move their smartphone around the static marker to see the digital image in 3D on their screen

One drawback of marker-based AR is that it can only be used with mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets, and users may need to download a dedicated app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store.

One famous example is IKEA’s Place app, which allows users to preview furniture at home before purchasing. The app uses a smartphone or tablet camera to scan the user’s environment and detect a flat surface, like a floor or table. The user can then choose a piece of furniture from the IKEA catalog and place a digital version on the detected surface.

The app uses marker-based augmented reality to recognize the environment and adjust the digital object’s position and scale to ensure accurate placement and size.

2. Markerless AR

These types of augmented reality don’t rely on physical markers like a QR code or image. Instead, markerless AR uses location-based data like GPS or accelerometers in mobile devices to detect and track the user’s environment and determine the location of the virtual content.

This enables the software to understand the spatial relationships and orientation of objects and surfaces in the user’s view and superimpose the virtual content accordingly.

Users open the mobile application or webpage and scan their physical environment with their device to make the digital item appear on material surfaces, like on the floor or a wall.

Users can use markerless AR on irregular surfaces as long as there are recognizable features like corners, textures, and objects to track. It’s worth mentioning that the complexity and variability of the environment impact the accuracy of markerless AR.

This type of augmented reality is usually more complex and costly to set up but is also the most popular option for online shopping and gaming thanks to its ease of use and flexibility.

Markerless AR includes three other types of AR technology which include projected-based AR, superimposition-based AR, and location-based AR. Let’s understand each of these in detail:

3. Projection-based AR

Projection-based augmented reality is typically relies on projectors to display 3D imagery or digital content onto a flat two-dimensional surface, such as a wall, floor, or object. It doesn’t make a fully immersive environment, mainly holograms for events and movies.

Users can utilize projection-based AR for in-person events like store openings or pop-up shops, where you users might want to show holograms.

4. Superimposition-based AR

With these augmented reality technologies, digital augmentation can fully or partially replace an existing physical item.

In other words, superimposition-based AR identifies specific objects or features in the user’s view, such as a book cover, a product label, or a landmark, and then overlays relevant digital content onto the object or feature.

In physical retail stores, this AR can give customers directions and guidance. By overlaying virtual arrows onto the environment, customers can find their way to the products they seek.

Superimposition AR can also give customers product details. By pointing their smartphone camera at a product, they can see virtual overlays with more information, such as price, features, and reviews.

5. Location-based AR

The last and one of the most popular types of augmented reality is location-based AR which relies on geographic data to deliver digital images at specific locations. It’s a popular type of markless AR for gaming––Pokémon Go, for example, relies on location-based AR.

This AR connects the virtual image to a specific location by reading the data in real time using the camera, GPS, compass, and accelerometer.

Also, as it is based on markerless AR, no image track is needed for its operation, as it is able to predict the user’s approach to match the data in real time with the user’s location.

Industries Using Augmented Reality Applications

Now that we’ve covered different types of augmented reality, it’s time to explore what industries are using AR in their operations. Here are the most prominent sectors where AR has made its presence:

1. Education

With advanced technologies like AR, many ways exist to fix educational problems. AR provides a dynamic platform for interactive learning. Students can dissect virtual organisms, explore historical sites, or even explore outer space and other exciting uses, making learning an engaging and immersive experience.

2. Healthcare

AR has also been a game-changer in another sector: healthcare. Surgeons use AR to visualize patient data in real-time during surgeries, enhancing precision and reducing risks. Patients benefit from AR, too, as it can be used for therapy sessions, and helping in rehabilitation; another use of AR is Medical skills training.

3. Manufacturing

Augmented reality is also revolutionizing the manufacturing industry by enhancing quality control, expediting incident resolution, optimizing processes, boosting functional efficiency, streamlining training schedules, and promoting a safety-first working environment.

Companies can achieve more access in the modern, technology-driven manufacturing landscape by embracing AR potential.

Recommended Read: How Industry 5.0 Revolutionizing Manufacturing for a Human-Centric Future

4. Engineering

AR in the beacon guides engineering into a future of boundless possibilities. AR solutions seamlessly merge the digital and physical worlds, redefining how engineers design, visualize, and collaborate.

AR expedites the design process by superimposing 3D models into actual structures, accelerating development and reducing costs. AR offers interactive, real-time guides for maintenance, ensuring precision in problem-solving.

5. Construction

Augmented Reality (AR) is also changing the construction by redefining training and presentation techniques.

In this dynamic industry, AR offers an immersive learning experience that enables trainees to interact with virtual models, machinery, and equipment, all while bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Augmented Reality Technologies

Advantages of AR

1. Improved Engagement

One of the biggest advantages of AR lies in its ability to captivate users in a way traditional technologies cannot. Augmented reality applications can seamlessly blend digital and real-world elements, creating engaging and interactive experiences. For enterprises, this translates to more captivating marketing campaigns and increasing customer engagement.

2. Improved Visualization

Different types of augmented reality have the potential to enhance visualization by superimposing digital data onto the real world. Architects and designers can use this trending technology to showcase their creations in three dimensions, allowing clients to visualize projects with unprecedented clarity.

3. Enhanced Productivity

In the workplace, AR can be a game-changer tool. From assembly line workers to healthcare professionals, AR can help in complex tasks by providing real-time information and step-by-step guidance.

Also Read: Top 10 Social Media Trends in 2024 to Grow Your Audience & Engagement

Potential Disadvantages of AR Technologies

1. Cost

Using AR can be a substantial investment, particularly for businesses. The development and architecture of augmented reality applications, the purchase of AR devices, and the training of staff can all incur significant costs. To address these cost concerns, businesses should conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis.

Find the key areas where AR can bring tangible value, such as improved customer engagement or enhanced employee productivity. Additionally, consider alternative financing options or partnerships to share the financial burden.

2. Technical Limitations

As AR is relatively new and still evolving, some technical limitations persist. These involve the need for powerful hardware, potential glitches, and compatibility issues. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends is crucial to navigate these challenges.

3. Privacy Concerns

Augmented reality can raise privacy concerns by collecting and processing data about users and their surroundings. Striking the right balance between offering a personalized experience and respecting user privacy is an ongoing challenge.

To prioritize user privacy and data security it is ideal to implement stringent data protection measures, such as anonymizing user data and obtaining explicit consent for data collection. Moreover, collaborate with legal experts to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations, and regularly update your privacy practices to address evolving concerns.

Future of Augmented Reality

AR is still in development, and there’s no doubt that it has a bright future ahead. But what can we expect from this technology in the future?

First and foremost, we can expect the different types of augmented reality to become more common among people. As the technology develops, it will become increasingly affordable and straightforward.

We can also expect AR to impact how you interact with the world around you significantly. With the introduction of 5G, AR can provide much higher-resolution real-time information, making it more realistic and immersive.

So, what does the future hold for AR? It’s impossible to tell precisely what will happen, but one thing is clear: it can do a lot more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is Marker-based augmented reality?

Ans. Maker-based AR scans a marker that triggers the augmented experience (whether an object, text, video, or animation) to appear on the device. It usually requires software like a mobile app, which allows users to scan markers from their device using its camera feed.

Q. Which definition best fits augmented reality?

Ans. Augmented reality (AR) integrates digital information with the user's environment in real time. Unlike virtual reality (VR), which creates a completely artificial environment, AR users experience a real-world environment with generated perceptual information overlaid on top of it.

Q. What are the Different types of augmented reality?

Ans. The main types of augmented reality include, marker-based AR markerless AR, projection-based, superimposition-based, and location-based.

Q. What are examples of AR?

Ans. Some examples of AR include anatomy learning for medical students, AR mirrors, Try-on apps, try-before-you-buy, virtual fitting rooms, billing concierge, patient symptom descriptions, and AR turmoil models for surgeons.

Q. What are the Disadvantages of augmented reality?

Ans. Although augmented reality offers many benefits to its users, the technology also has some drawbacks such as cost, technical limitations, and privacy concerns.

Q. What is Projection-based augmented reality?

Ans. Projection-based augmented reality is a type of AR that relies on projectors to display 3D imagery or digital content onto a flat two-dimensional surface, such as a wall, floor, or object. It doesn’t make a fully immersive environment, mainly holograms for events and movies.

Q. How to use Augmented reality in hotels?

Ans. The hotels can use AR in several innovative ways such as creating more interactive rooms, showing guests the way, virtual room keys, and More.