Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information onto the real world. It’s becoming increasingly popular, with applications ranging from gaming to education to healthcare. But who invented AR? Is it just a recent invention, or has it been around for decades? In this article, we’ll explore the history of augmented reality and find out who first came up with the idea.
The Early Days of Augmented Reality
The concept of overlaying digital information onto the real world can be traced back to the 1960s, when researchers at the University of Utah developed a system called “Sword of Damocles.” This system used a projector and a mirror to create an illusion of depth on a flat surface. The researchers were able to display 3D objects on the surface, creating the illusion that they were floating in space.
This was a very basic form of augmented reality, but it marked the beginning of a long journey towards more advanced technologies. In the following decades, researchers and engineers continued to explore new ways of combining digital information with the real world.
The Birth of Augmented Reality Apps
The first modern AR apps were developed in the early 2010s. One of the earliest examples was “Aurasma,” which was launched by Apple in 2010. Aurasma used the iPhone’s camera to detect markers in the real world, and then overlaid digital information onto those markers.
Another early AR app was “Ingress,” which was launched by Google in 2013. Ingress used GPS data and augmented reality to create a virtual game that encouraged players to explore their surroundings and interact with their environment.
These apps were the beginning of a new era for augmented reality, and they paved the way for even more advanced technologies. Today, there are thousands of AR apps available, with applications ranging from gaming and entertainment to education and healthcare.
The Role of Companies in Augmented Reality Development
Many companies have played a role in the development of augmented reality. One of the most well-known companies in this space is Magic Leap, which was founded in 2014. Magic Leap has developed AR glasses that allow users to see digital information overlaid onto the real world.
Another company that has been at the forefront of AR development is Snapchat. The social media platform added AR filters to its app in 2016, allowing users to add digital elements to their photos and videos. These filters have become incredibly popular, with millions of users using them every day.
Other companies that have developed AR technologies include Apple, Google, Samsung, and Microsoft. These companies have all invested heavily in augmented reality, recognizing its potential as a transformative technology.
The Future of Augmented Reality
The future of augmented reality is bright, with new technologies and applications emerging every day. As the technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for AR.
One area where AR is particularly promising is in healthcare. AR can be used to help doctors and surgeons visualize patient anatomy in 3D, making surgeries safer and more accurate. It can also be used to train medical students and professionals, allowing them to practice procedures in a safe and controlled environment.
Another area where AR is expected to have a major impact is in education. AR can be used to create interactive learning experiences that engage students and make learning more fun and engaging. For example, AR can be used to bring history and science to life, allowing students to explore these subjects in a whole new way.