The Evolution of Advertising in an Augmented Reality
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that allows users to enhance their real-world surroundings with digital content. Unlike Virtual Reality (VR), which creates an entirely new virtual environment, AR adds digital elements to the real world.
AR technology works by using a device, such as a smartphone or tablet, to scan and recognize the user's real-world environment. The device then adds digital content, such as 3D models, images, or text, to the user's view of the world.
AR has a wide range of applications in various fields, including education, entertainment, and advertising. For example, AR can be used in education to provide students with interactive learning experiences, allowing them to explore complex concepts in a more engaging and memorable way.
In entertainment, AR can be used to create immersive gaming experiences, allowing users to interact with virtual characters and objects in the real world. In advertising, AR can be used to create interactive ads that allow customers to try out products or see how they would look in a specific setting.
AR is a rapidly evolving technology with endless possibilities. As the technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more and more innovative applications in various industries. We are already seeing commercialized uses of this useful technology in big companies like Amazon, allowing their users to see how furniture or other useful home items will fit in the space they have in their home.
These technologies have barely begun to scratch the surface of consumer level products and soon, AR glasses will become a major release predictably within the next 2 years. By 2025 we could be looking at a whole new way to connect and observe our surroundings with our daily devices creating a user experience that suits our needs at all times. It might seem like this technology is far off the mark for major release, but we are already seeing companies release versions of this technology to the public at very modest price points. Companies like Apple and Meta have already staked a claim in the AR space within their current devices like the iPhone, IPad and even Oculus devices, but soon lenses will be a major offering in our retail space.
What does AR mean for advertising and customer engagement?
Advertising is set to have a significant impact on Augmented Reality (AR) technology in the coming years. As AR continues to evolve and become more widely used, advertisers are beginning to recognize the unique opportunities that this technology offers for engaging with customers.
One of the main benefits of AR advertising is the ability to create highly interactive and immersive experiences. AR allows advertisers to place digital content, such as 3D models or animations, directly into the real world, creating a sense of presence and immersion that is difficult to achieve through other marketing channels.
AR also offers advertisers the ability to personalize their content based on the user's location, behavior, and preferences. This can help to create more targeted and effective advertising campaigns, increasing the likelihood that users will engage with and respond positively to the content.
As AR technology becomes more advanced and widespread, we can expect to see more and more innovative uses of AR in advertising. This may include interactive product demos, virtual try-ons, and personalized location-based promotions.
However, it is important for advertisers to approach AR advertising with caution and to respect users' privacy and personal space. AR technology has the potential to be highly invasive, and advertisers must strike the right balance between engaging with customers in a meaningful way and respecting their privacy and personal boundaries.
