Augmented reality (AR) is a fast-moving technology with the potential to transform our everyday lives and it’s predicted within a year there will be one billion people using the medium in various capacities. AR relies on computer vision, powered by artificial intelligence, to affect real-life scenarios. It might sound like something from Minority Report but, whether we recognise it or not, we’re already seeing the start of AR’s infiltration into our everyday lives.
At Banuba, we develop powerful computer vision technology to create a range of innovative and ‘futuristic’ applications which turn a regular smart device’s camera into something quite different. This innovative use of the camera unleashes a world of possibilities for consumers; we’ve already seen the excitement from hunting down stray creatures in Pokemon Go and, while Instagram’s dog filter is cute, it’s just one basic example of how AR will be used in everyday life.
Fasten your seatbelts – AR’s on its way and it’ll be a fun ride.
Shopping
AR’s about to change the entire shopping experience as we know it. No longer will you be closing your eyes to visualise whether that sofa you have your eye on will coordinate with your wallpaper; an app will do it for you. IKEA’s AR-enabled Place app is a great early example of this technology at work, allowing you to digitally place items into your desired space before buying. Add some cushions, try a new couch, drop in a lamp, and there – you’ve redecorated. Now all that’s left is to part with those pounds and pick up your new furniture.
It’s not just for heavy lifting either. With AR-enabled vision, you can try on new glasses, outfits, or even nail varnish in about three seconds, helping you make purchase decisions in a fraction of the time.
Navigation
Ever spun around in circles on the pavement with your phone out, waiting in vain for your location arrow to recalibrate? You probably wished that you could superimpose the directions on the street in front of you. Well AR is only too happy to play fairy godmother; soon map apps and navigation technology will superimpose directions on the road in front of you. Gatwick Airport recently took a step in that direction with the announcement that it will provide AR-equipped beacons that enable blue dot navigation to help busy passengers navigate its terminals.
Education
We’re also going to start seeing AR popping up in our schools and playing a major role in day-to-day learning. AR will be used to bring the constellations into the classroom, as well as unveil the inner workings of the heart. Already, museums rely on technology like the Timelooper app to bring ancient history to life, creating a much more immersive and enriching experience.
From interactive selfie filters to smartphone measuring capabilities, we’re starting to scratch the surface of how we’ll begin to use AR on a regular basis. Whether we use it to design our new home, study for a degree or enjoy some free time chasing down Pokemon, it’s clear that AR is already becoming a cornerstone of daily life, but the best is yet to come.
By Vadim Nekhai
Vadim Nekhai is managing director of Banuba, a pioneering AI startup specialising in computer vision