Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that combines the real world and computer-generated content, such as images, sounds, or other information. AR can enhance one’s perception of the environment and provide interactive and immersive experiences. AR can be used for various purposes, such as education, entertainment, healthcare, and marketing.
Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user’s view of the real world, thus providing a composite view. It is an enhanced version of the real physical world that is achieved through the use of digital visual elements, sound, or other sensory stimuli delivered via technology.
AR can be defined as a system that incorporates three basic features:
A combination of real and virtual worlds
Real-time interaction
Accurate 3D registration of virtual and real objects
The overlaid sensory information can be constructive (i.e., additive to the natural environment), or destructive (i.e., masking of the natural environment). This experience is seamlessly interwoven with the physical world such that it is perceived as an immersive aspect of the real environment. In this way, augmented reality alters one’s ongoing perception of a real-world environment, whereas virtual reality completely replaces the user’s real-world environment with a simulated one.
AR has found applications in various fields such as retail, where it enhances the consumer shopping experience, and healthcare, where it serves as a powerful learning tool for training medical professionals.