Augmented reality (AR) has long been a topic of fascination among tech enthusiasts and scientists. Though the concept of AR is not new, it was only in the 1990s that computers became powerful enough to handle the complex calculations required for AR. Today, augmented reality is everywhere, from gaming and entertainment to education and healthcare. In this blog post, we will explore the fascinating history of augmented reality, from its inception to modern-day applications.
The History of Augmented Reality
The first mention of augmented reality can be traced back to 1901 when author L. Frank Baum used a device called a “character marker” to overlay information about characters in his book series. However, the first prototype of AR was created in the early 1960s when computer scientist Ivan Sutherland developed the “Sword of Damocles,” which used a head-mounted display to project computer-generated graphics onto the real world. The technology was groundbreaking but too expensive for mass adoption.
In the 1990s, a team of researchers at Boeing developed the Virtual Fixtures system for aircraft wire harness assembly. It was the first practical application of AR in the industry. The late 1990s saw the introduction of ARToolKit, an open-source software library that enabled the creation of AR applications without requiring specialized hardware.
AR Goes Mainstream
The launch of smartphones and tablets provided developers with affordable and accessible platforms to develop AR applications. The first widely recognized AR application was in 2008, when Wikitude launched an AR browser that used GPS to overlay information about nearby businesses. The following year, AR hit the mainstream with the launch of the popular game, Pokémon Go.
Today, AR is used in various industries, including gaming, entertainment, education, and healthcare. For instance, the AR app “Quiver” uses AR to bring children’s coloring books to life, while Ikea’s AR furniture app enables users to position virtual furniture in their homes. In healthcare, AR is used to simulate surgeries, train medical professionals, and even create prosthetic limbs.
Key Takeaways
Augmented reality has come a long way since its inception in the 1960s. What started as an ambitious, expensive technology is now affordable and accessible to almost everyone with a smartphone or tablet. AR is now used in various industries, from gaming and entertainment to education and healthcare. With advancements in technology, AR is likely to continue to grow and evolve. It’s an exciting time for the world of augmented reality, and who knows what the future holds?
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