There are many fields where AR is utilized, such as commerce, defense, manufacturing, and architecture.
You can create new businesses by collecting data from specific areas.

One of the technologies to watch out for in the new iPhone X, released by Apple to mark its 10th anniversary, is "facial recognition." This technology is implemented through the "TrueDepth Camera" system, a 3D camera based on a 3D sensing module. There is one more technology made possible by a 3D camera that measures depth: "augmented reality (AR)."

Last June, Apple unveiled its augmented reality platform, 'ARKit,' at its developer conference, 'WWDC 2017.' It subsequently announced that it is developing apps utilizing AR technology in collaboration with IKEA. The iPhone X is also equipped with an OLED display and a 3D depth camera for AR implementation.

Market research firm Counterpoint Research predicted that the AR market would reach $60 billion by 2021, outpacing VR in the competition for next-generation technology. Why is AR garnering attention from a business perspective?

AR refers to an information visualization technology that overlays digital information onto the real world. While Virtual Reality (VR) is based on computer graphics, AR is based on computer vision. The difference is that VR cannot move between the computer world and reality, whereas AR can move between reality and the virtual world.

In addition, since VR takes place in a limited space, the HMD does not necessarily need to be wireless. On the other hand, AR has an unrestricted scope of use, so it must be wireless. Although technical improvements in resolution have resolved issues of dizziness and visual asymmetry, VR is still difficult to use for extended periods due to motion sickness. In contrast, AR is less difficult to use because it simply displays information while the user is viewing reality.

There are many companies accelerating the development of AR technology, including not only Apple but also Google and Microsoft. Columnist Park Byung-keun said, “Among the features implemented in the iPhone 8 and X, distance can be measured using the camera’s TOF (Time of Flight),” adding, “In addition to this, Facebook said that an era will come when people use social media while wearing AR glasses.”

Google has utilized its proprietary AR technology, Tango, in commerce. A tablet equipped with Tango was attached to a shopping cart and used as an indoor navigation system. It provided directional and location information during product searches and recommended products by analyzing customer data.

There are also cases where it has been utilized in smart factories. Schneider's AR software, Vizeo 360, is used for on-site maintenance. Scanning equipment with an iPad displays data, allowing for immediate action and a record of defects. It can also be used as a means to monitor and control defect rates remotely.

We must collect data in specific areas that Google and Apple have not considered.

Samsung's logistics factory in Hungary is also utilizing AR. At this factory, which offers regional discounts for sending repair parts, it is possible to use smartwatches and AR glasses to read product barcodes and even input product locations and inventory.

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a digital model based on a three-dimensional information model that integrates and utilizes information generated throughout the lifecycle of a facility. It enables integrated management of the planning, design, construction, and maintenance stages, which was difficult in the traditional two-dimensional drawing environment during the design process.

Columnist Park Byung-geun stated, “BIM will now be used in all architectural designs,” and explained that AR plays an important role in implementing BIM.

He continued by emphasizing, “There are many fields where AR can be used, such as remote repair support, gaming, and travel. You might think we lag behind Google or Apple, but if we collect data from specific areas they haven't considered, it doesn't mean there are no business opportunities. It is important to utilize AR as a tool.”