Description: Immersive environments in the category of Augmented Reality (AR) are virtual or augmented spaces that create a sense of presence and engagement for users. By overlaying digital elements onto the real world, AR allows users to interact with virtual information and objects within their physical environment. This technology utilizes devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smart glasses to integrate graphics, sounds, and other data in real-time, enriching the user experience. The main features of immersive environments include interactivity, personalization, and the ability to provide contextualized information, making them especially relevant in various fields such as education, entertainment, and marketing. AR not only transforms the way we perceive the world but also opens up new possibilities for creating unique and memorable experiences, fostering a higher level of engagement and learning. In summary, immersive environments in Augmented Reality are a powerful tool that combines the digital with the physical, offering users an enriched and immersive experience that transcends the limitations of traditional reality.
History: Augmented Reality has its roots in the 1960s when Ivan Sutherland developed the first virtual reality display system. However, the term ‘Augmented Reality’ was coined in 1990 by Tom Caudell, an engineer at Boeing, to describe a system that helped workers assemble aircraft components. Over the years, the technology has evolved significantly, especially with the advancement of mobile devices and improvements in graphical processing capabilities. In 2009, the Layar application marked a milestone as one of the first AR applications for smartphones, allowing users to see information about places and objects through their device’s camera. Since then, AR has grown exponentially, integrating into various industries and applications.
Uses: Immersive environments of Augmented Reality are used in a variety of fields, including education, where they allow students to interact with complex concepts in a visual and practical way. In the entertainment sector, they are employed in video games and applications that offer interactive experiences. In marketing, brands use AR to create more engaging and memorable advertising campaigns. Additionally, in medicine, it is applied for training professionals and in surgical procedures, providing real-time information about the patient. It is also used in architecture and design, allowing clients to visualize projects in their real environment before construction.
Examples: A notable example of Augmented Reality is the Pokémon GO application, which allows players to capture virtual creatures in the real world using their smartphone camera. Another case is IKEA Place, which enables users to visualize furniture in their home before purchasing, assisting in decision-making. In the educational field, applications like Google Expeditions allow students to explore historical places and scientific concepts through immersive experiences. In medicine, the AccuVein application uses AR to help healthcare professionals locate veins in patients, improving accuracy in administering injections.
