The 3 Biggest Augmented Reality Misconceptions

Augmented Reality is gaining popularity among marketers and customers alike. Customers are getting a kick out of interacting with creative AR ads, like Burger King’s Burn That Ad campaign. Marketers are using augmented reality technology to elevate advertising to a new level of entertainment. Yet, there is still a lot of confusion about what augmented reality is and how it works.

What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented Reality (AR) superimposes digital information on to the real world in real-time. The digital info can be images, 3D models, videos, and more. Essentially, it augments reality by bringing conceptual ideas to life in the real world. Watch a demo here.

Misconceptions About Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality has come a long way in a short time. Many people haven’t been able to keep up with the advancements in technology and are missing out on unique marketing opportunities. The following are common misconceptions about augmented reality that may be holding you back.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality are the Same Thing

Augmented reality is more like the opposite of virtual reality. Virtual reality immerses the user in a virtual world, transporting them in to the digital world. Augmented reality, however, transports the digital elements into the real world, making it hard to tell what is real and what is not. Virtual reality requires a headset to experience the effect, whereas users can experience new AR technology through their mobile devices.

Use of Augmented Reality is Limited to Certain Industries

Until recently, augmented reality has mostly been used in engineering, design, manufacturing, and architecture. However, the sky is the limit now. Augmented Reality examples now include virtual fitting rooms that overlay clothes on your body, or can virtually place furniture in your living room, or a juicy cheeseburger can “appear” in front of a user. Real estate agents can turn ‘For Sale’ signs into virtual home tours. Restaurants can make coupons sizzle. The possibilities are endless.

Augmented Reality is Difficult for Users to Use

It used to be the case that special headsets and programs were required to use augmented reality. Those days are long gone. More so, gone are the days where mobile applications are required. Until recently, users would have to download the company’s application to access the augmented reality. Clearly, this UX is not ideal, where they have to follow a lot of steps before they can even view it.

Today, an AR experience is now only a click away. Technology has advanced so far that all users need to do is point their device’s camera at the source material, and voila! They can experience augmented reality in a matter of seconds.

Conclusion

Augmented reality is no longer restricted by headsets, apps, industry, or professional status. AR is allowing companies to connect with their customers in a whole new way. The ‘wow’ factor of AR marketing is changing the negative perception of ads to a fun experience for users. Don’t let misconceptions hold you back from innovatively interacting with your customers.

Learn how AR can up your marketing game with Aircards.