Augmented reality (AR) combined with virtual reality (VR) is one of the hottest technologies of 2018 and beyond. According to my predictions, it is actually one of the
Top 5 Developer Trends Of 2018 along with cloud, cyber security, AI, and blockchain. It simply means, there are growing opportunities for software developers as well.
Virtual reality has been here for a while but recent innovations in hardware, processors, and the mobile industry has created a tremendous opportunity for software developers and content creators. The gaming industry is embracing virtual reality more than any other industry.
Augmented reality is one of the hottest areas for games and app developers. Today, there are more AR and VR games being developed than the regular games. Since Apple announced the ARKit in Sept 2017, more than 13 million app downloads were built using ARKit, according to SensorTower.
Microsoft has given augmented reality a different meaning and use by bringing its first holographic computer, the HoloLens. Microsoft HoloLens adds a new dimension to the space by introducing a mixed reality concept to developers. Mixed reality combines augmented reality, virtual reality, and real-world objects into a single space. HoloLens is the first holographic computer that uses holograms to generate 2D and 3D presentations.
Last year, Intel announced another chapter to augmented reality by introducing a concept of merged reality, that allows users to replace real world objects into a virtual or augmented world.
Devices.
Several device manufacturers have announced their own AR/VR devices. Some of these companies leading innovations include Facebook, Sony, HTC, Google, Samsung, and Microsoft.
According to a report published by IDC, smart augmented reality glasses unit shipment is expected to grow to 22 million by 2022.
Industries.
The opportunity is almost everywhere. Some of the early adopter industries embracing AR/VR technology are automotive, gaming, education, architectural and engineering, housing, manufacturing, healthcare, marketing, travel, fashion and retail, and sports and entertainment.
And the opportunity.
AR/VR generates two main kinds of demand – application developers, and content creators. Most of the AR/VR products require some kind of 2D or 3D content that involves time and resources.
The AR/VR market is expected to grow to $215 billion by year 2021, according to a report published by IDC.
Where to start.
Today, there are several products and tools available to build AR/VR apps. You may pick and choose your area of interest and expertise. Some of the common tools and platforms include Google VR, Apple ARKit, UWP, Unity, Vuforia, VRView, and UnReal Engine.
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