Both augmented reality and virtual reality technologies are advancing parallel to each other. They offer a new and exciting way of interaction and immersion quite unlike any other medium. In the past few years, researchers and scientists pitted AR and VR against each other. However, a leading expert says that both technologies will likely co-exist peacefully in the future.
AR and VR technologies to remain relevant
Caspar Thykier, a leading figure in the field of augmented reality and the CEO of Zappar, recently spoke in the Pocket-lint podcast. There, he allayed fears of AR replacing VR technology soon. Zapper’s co-founder claims that AR and VR technologies have different applications and uses. Therefore, the risk of one being affected due to the popularity or evolution of the other is improbable.
Thykier goes on to explain how the equipment required for VR is completely different from the ones needed for augmented reality technology. Due to the mobile nature of headsets, the expert feels that VR is more ubiquitous when compared to AR tech. However, he acknowledges that mixed reality systems are beginning to find their stride in the world today.
Since its 2010 inception, Thykier’s brand, Zapper, specialises in creating augmented reality experiences from prints, packaging, products and even places. The AR technology can either show consumers a video or more information about the products or place.
Thykier’s Vision for AR’s Future
During the podcast, Zappar’s CEO spoke about the future of AR. He says that mobile companies should move away from native apps for AR functionality in handheld devices. Instead, they should adopt webAR experiences within the next three years to increase awareness about this technology.
WebAR, he suggests, would make the technology more accessible to companies and consumers. Very soon, customers will be able to scan a product or package for delightful storytelling. Alternatively, corporations will use the same to provide useful information on products while consumers are shopping.
Companies such as Google and Apple are already devising ways to implement webAR technology to aid in shopping and relaying information. Using ARCore, Google recently released several AR animals including lions, sharks and more. Through the programme, users can place these animals in the real world and gauge their size.
Apple has not been far behind in the AR race as well. The Cupertino-based brand used ARKit to present an augmented reality interface that can aid shoppers. Consumers can check the size and placement of a piece of AR furniture before buying it at the store. However, as of now, you need an iPhone or iPad to use this feature.
Thykier welcomed these additions into augmented reality technology. Although holding your tablet or phone constantly to experience the power of AR is a setback, thankfully most consumers are not yet at the point to complain about this inconvenience. He says that since people are already so reliant on their phones, using it for the AR functionalities does not seem like a burden to them at present. However, he is still looking forward to a truly hands-free AR experience in the not too distant future.
