Description: Digital overlay refers to the integration of digital content over the real world in the context of augmented reality. This concept allows virtual elements, such as images, texts, or 3D models, to be superimposed on the user’s view in real-time, creating an interactive and enriching experience. Digital overlay transforms the perception of the physical environment, enabling users to interact with additional information that complements their reality. This technique relies on advanced technologies such as image recognition, geolocation, and computer vision, which allow for the identification of objects and locations in the real world to project relevant digital content. Digital overlay not only enhances the user experience but also opens up new possibilities in various fields, from education to entertainment, by facilitating the visualization of complex data in an intuitive and accessible manner.
History: The concept of digital overlay in augmented reality has its roots in the 1960s when Ivan Sutherland developed the first virtual reality system known as ‘The Sword of Damocles.’ However, it was in the 1990s that augmented reality began to take shape with Louis Rosenberg’s work on the ‘Virtual Fixtures’ project. Over the years, the technology has evolved significantly, with advancements in hardware and software enabling the creation of more sophisticated applications. In 2013, the popularity of digital overlay skyrocketed with the launch of applications like Google Glass and later Pokémon GO in 2016, which brought augmented reality to a mass audience.
Uses: Digital overlay is used in a variety of fields, including education, where it allows users to interact with 3D models of complex concepts. In the healthcare sector, it is employed to visualize medical information about patients during surgical procedures. In the entertainment realm, it is used in video games and mobile applications that combine virtual elements with the real environment. Additionally, in retail, brands use digital overlay to offer interactive experiences to consumers, such as virtually trying on products before purchasing them.
Examples: A notable example of digital overlay is the Pokémon GO app, which allows players to capture virtual creatures in the real world using their mobile device’s camera. Another example is the IKEA Place app, which enables users to visualize furniture in their home before making a purchase. In the educational realm, applications like Google Expeditions allow users to explore historical sites or scientific concepts through augmented reality experiences.
