Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes digital information onto the real world, allowing users to interact with both physical and virtual objects in new and innovative ways. AR has been around for decades, but who are the creators behind this revolutionary technology? This article will explore the history of augmented reality and its key contributors.
History of Augmented Reality:
The concept of AR dates back to the early days of computer graphics and virtual reality, with pioneers such as Ivan Sutherland and Jaron Lanier experimenting with ways to combine digital and physical worlds. In the 1960s, Sutherland created “Skywriting,” a program that allowed users to draw letters in the sky using a light pen. This was one of the earliest examples of AR, as it overlaid digital text onto the real world.
In the 1980s and 1990s, researchers at the University of Illinois developed the first AR system, called “Cygwin,” which allowed users to interact with 3D objects in a virtual environment. In 1992, the team created “Virtual Try-On,” which used AR to allow users to try on clothes virtually. This was one of the first applications of AR in the fashion industry.
In 2008, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs announced the development of the iPhone, which featured a built-in accelerometer and gyroscope that allowed for AR applications. The first AR app for the iPhone, called “Augmented Reality Kit,” was released in 2009 and allowed users to create their own AR experiences.
Key Contributors to Augmented Reality:
There are many individuals and companies that have made significant contributions to the development of AR technology. Here are a few key figures:
- Ivan Sutherland
- Jaron Lanier
- Tom Ivy: Ivy is the founder and CEO of Vuforia, a company that provides AR development tools and platforms. Vuforia was acquired by Qualcomm in 2016 for $1 billion, making it one of the most valuable AR companies in the world.
- Tim Cook: Apple’s CEO has been a strong supporter of AR technology, and under his leadership, the company has developed a number of AR-enabled products, including the iPhone X and the iPad Pro.
Conclusion:
The development of augmented reality has been a collaborative effort involving many individuals and companies over the years. While there have been many contributors to this exciting technology, some key figures stand out for their pioneering work and significant contributions to the field. From Ivan Sutherland to Jaron Lanier, Tom Ivy to Tim Cook, these individuals have helped shape the future of AR and paved the way for new and innovative ways of interacting with both digital and physical worlds.