Augmented
reality is still in its infancy stage. Really? Think about it again.
According to a market study conducted by Juniper Research, augmented
reality technology in both enterprise and industrial markets will
drive annual software application revenues of $2.4 billion in 2019.
That is increase of almost $247 million in 2014 over the period of
forecast.
Often
dismissed as sci-fi and gimmicky, Augmented Reality is inching closer
to a new normal. From the Facebook acquisition of Oculus Rift and
Google’s investment in Magic Leap, and announcement of Google
Cardboard, Augmented reality is fast becoming the buzzword. Recently,
Apple acquired German startup Metaio, a leading company in the
augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality space. With Apple’s move
in the Augmented Reality space, it looks like the stage is all set
for AR and VR to become popular technologies in 2015. Does that mean
Apple could make augmented reality accessible to iPhone and iPad
users?
But
what has triggered the sudden growth of Augmented Reality? Be it
software improvement, rise of wearable technology and power of
technology computing, the reasons behind the growth are just far too
many.
Businesses
are no longer dismissing Augmented Reality as a gimmicky or
gaming-only technology. In recent times, both location and image
recognition services have gained precision to the point of
perfection. Image recognition capabilities in AR solutions allow
staff to visually identify objects and parts for real-time decision
making. There is lot of business potential spearheading the growth of
AR. AR provides the potential to improve productivity, streamline
current processes, provide real-time access to data, offer innovative
ways to tackle problems, train employees and enhance collaboration.
Here
are few ways to Augmented Reality Apps bridge the gap between digital
and the physical worlds:
Retail
Industry
Augmented
reality is changing the way we shop in a dramatic way. The lines
between online and offline store are getting blurred. Augmented
reality app can allow users to try different variations of product
eliminating the need to have all sizes on display.
Retailers
can expand a business beyond geographical barriers without incurring
significant overheads such as real estate or additional manpower.
This technology lets shoppers walk through virtual aisles.
Supply
Chain Management
Augmented
reality is not about tricks. Businesses can effectively use augmented
reality app in a warehouse. You got it right. We said a warehouse.
After all, augmented reality is not just limited to sci-fi movies or
games. Augmented reality app can help locate products, increase
safety of workers and equipment, and locate products.
Training
& Aftersales Solutions
Augmented
reality is not just about driving sales. It’s very interactive
nature can help explain the most complex technical aspects of
products in a matter of few minutes. Now educating customers at any
point of time with AR app is easy at a matter of tap.
Real
Estate
You
simply hold up your iPhone and move around the property, which will
allow you to virtually walk and check the property, including
furniture, color of walls and lots more. You can easily identify new
properties by simply walking down the street and accessing real-time
information such as price, for-sale status, contact information, and
virtual tours.
Synopsis
The
best part about AR is that it is great for any size of business.
Today’s savvy customers are looking for omni-channel experience.
With AR, businesses can increase the reach of marketing activities.
However, it is important for enterprises to clearly define business
goals before deployment of augmented reality app/tool. Remember,
augmented reality is not a standalone strategy and does not replace
existing channels. It needs to become an integrated part of your
business to generate results.
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