Augmented reality has been around for a few years. But small businesses have only recently started to realize its potential as a marketing tool.
Technology startup company Lampix has created an infographic to summarize all the ways in which augmented reality can be a game-changer for small businesses.
Flexibility of Augmented Reality Creates New Opportunities
Using different components such as sensors, computer and projectors, augmented reality shifts users’ perception of reality.
Here’s how it works. Input devices such as cameras are used to scan, collect data and process a digital model. Afterwards, processors built into devices develop sensory input and produce interactive displays. These images are then imposed onto a screen or flat surface based on the digital model.
Enabling computer-generated images to overlay or interact with real world objects elevates user experience and helps businesses boost customer relations.
Different Forms of Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality works also because of its versatility.
Take its marker-based or image recognition feature, for example. It is being used today for various marketing campaigns, especially the ones involving QR code readers.
Marketers are also using it to access location-based information allowing them to better target their audiences.
For realtors, augmented reality provides an opportunity to heighten user experience. By partially or completely replacing the view of a real world object, augmented reality gives users a futuristic look into things.
Many businesses are also using projection to make their marketing efforts more interactive and engaging.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Even as augmented reality becomes more popular, not many marketers understand how it differs from virtual reality.
Virtual reality creates a technology driven artificial environment experienced through sensory stimulation. Augmented reality, on the other hand, enhances reality through digital information overlay technology.
Unlike virtual reality, which involves high costs, bulky hardware and disorienting user experience, augmented reality presents more marketing opportunities.
How Businesses Can Use Augmented Reality
Want to know more about how augmented reality can boost your business? Check out the infographic below:
Image: Lampix
Aira Bongco
It is really an evolving industry. More investments will be made in this area along with AI. It is expected to grow some more in the years to come.
I would be interested to know what you are defining VR as here. A lot of people use the term VR to explain what is simply a 360 animation / video / environment which allows the user the look around, but not interact with the environment. I would suggest this is the case here as research that my company has done into this shows that when users can walk around in and interactive with the virtual environment, 99% rated it as a comfortable, enjoyable experience (i.e. no motion sickness).
Also what I think has been missed here is the feeling of ‘presence’ in a VR environment, something which you cannot achieve with AR as it just overlays digital images / video over an existing environment.
I believe there is a market for both VR and AR. In fact I think it is risky to categorise them together as they are quite different and will have different uses. The focus should be on what needs to be achieved and then match the most appropriate technology.