Augmented virtual reality (ARVR) is a rapidly growing technology that has already transformed various industries like gaming, education, and healthcare.
The Early Days of Augmented Reality
AR is a technology that overlays digital information onto the real world, allowing users to interact with both virtual and physical objects. While the concept of AR can be traced back to ancient times like Leonardo da Vinci’s sketches, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the term “augmented reality” was coined.
In 1968, Ivan Sutherland created “Sword of Damocles,” which was a simple AR application that projected an image onto a person’s head, creating the illusion of a virtual sword hovering in front of them. This marked the beginning of AR development and opened up new possibilities for interactive experiences.
The Development of Augmented Virtual Reality
While AR was initially developed as a standalone technology, it wasn’t until the 1990s that AR started to be integrated with virtual reality (VR) to create what is now known as augmented virtual reality (ARVR).
One of the key figures in ARVR development was Jaron Lanier. In 1992, he created “Pacific DataGraphics” which developed some of the first VR and AR systems. Lanier also co-founded the company “Virtual Reality Medical Center,” which used VR and AR for medical training.
Another pioneer in ARVR development was Paul Dyer. In 1993, he founded “Virtual Worlds, Inc.” which created one of the first AR systems called “The Auras.” The Auras projected a virtual image onto a person’s body, allowing them to see and interact with digital objects.
In 2008, Google introduced its AR platform, known as “Google Goggles.” This marked a significant milestone in the development of ARVR, as it brought AR technology to a wider audience and paved the way for future innovations.
The Role of Smartphones in ARVR Development
Smartphones have played a crucial role in the development of ARVR. With the widespread adoption of smartphones, developers have been able to create more accessible and affordable AR applications.
One of the key players in this space is Apple. In 2015, Apple introduced “ARKit,” which is an augmented reality framework for iOS devices. ARKit has since become one of the most popular AR development platforms, allowing developers to create a wide range of AR applications for mobile devices.
Another company that has played a significant role in ARVR development is Snapchat. In 2017, Snapchat introduced “Snap Map,” which uses AR technology to overlay digital information onto the real world. Snap Map has since become one of the most popular AR applications and has helped to popularize AR technology among younger generations.
The Future of Augmented Virtual Reality
ARVR technology is rapidly evolving, and we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the near future. One area where ARVR is expected to have a significant impact is in the field of education.
ARVR has the potential to transform the way we learn by creating immersive and interactive experiences that allow students to explore complex concepts in a more engaging way.
Another area where ARVR is expected to make a significant impact is in the field of medicine. ARVR can be used to create virtual simulations that allow doctors and surgeons to practice procedures in a safe and controlled environment, reducing the risk of errors and improving patient outcomes.
Summary
In conclusion, the development of augmented virtual reality has been a collaborative effort from many individuals and companies over the years.