VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), mixed reality, spatial computing—this is technology that is changing the way we do business. Companies are rapidly adapting to and using these new digital technologies to create better brand experiences, enhance training, and to collaborate and communicate.
Until now, creating content that works with these advanced platforms has been an obstacle to implementation for many. Most businesses do not have access to the knowledge and skills or software expertise to produce viewable and engaging content for this type of platform nor do they have any idea how to implement it for their business. That's all changing with the development of online tools designed to assist with the conversion of your content for use in the 3D spatial computing environment.
First, a little history about the evolution of VR and AR. According to the Virtual Reality Society, VR is considered to have begun in the 1950s with early elements having roots as far back as the 1860s—long before it became a new form of digital technology. Today it is used extensively in cinema, gaming applications, the military, healthcare and sports and many more industries.
Whereas VR immerses the user in an artificial world, AR—the next logical step in this evolution of the technology—is an interactive experience of the real-world environment overlaid with 3D computer generated information and images which interact together and can be digitally manipulated. The viewer perceives this information as part of the real world. AR is sometimes referred to as spatial computing or a mixed reality environment.
AR is rapidly becoming a tool for use in all industries. For example, in retail sales, customers can now try on virtual clothing in every size and shape without inventory as an issue. Or a client can compare products, colors, and design options for furniture, appliances, flooring, countertops, new car interiors and more. Retail brands can introduce new products at a trade show without physically having the item at the show—reducing shipping costs and space limitations for previously prohibited large equipment items. Moving forward, AR technology will be prevalent in new cars, identifying things like hazards ahead and frequently used lanes.
In the construction and design industries, AR is being used for everything from visualizing current pipe configuration in a remodel to imagining a new build on a property to picking out and placing appliances, cabinetry, flooring in a new home. Architects and designers can create life size 3D replicas of their designs, and remote clients can walk through 3D structures without leaving their office or home. In addition, AR can help architects and clients discover any problems or design flaws prior to the build, giving them time to work out a solution before beginning construction, saving on time and costs. Changes to plans can be made in real time and viewed instantly by all for approval or revisions.
For training purposes and even as a teaching tool AR is proving to be valuable. Visual learners benefit from the visualization capabilities of AR that can bring concepts to life as 3D objects or renderings. Visual learners are more engaged and retain more knowledge. Information provided in a digital format and viewable using AR can be updated rapidly and in real-time, decreasing risks, errors and transfer of outdated information and the costs associated with those issues. By providing real-time updated information and training a company can potentially eliminate or lower risks for injury in dangerous settings such as power plants or manufacturing facilities. It also decreases training costs by presenting hands-on relevant training without costly dated printed materials. With AR, information and data can be passed to a student or employee in real-time.
For those looking for a way to launch AR for their brand or company, the makeSEA platform makes it easy to generate unique 3D visuals from existing files of any format and gives everyday businesses the ability to wow their customers, enhance their offerings