When it comes to Augmented Reality the first thing that pops up in your mind is Pokemon Go, the chartbreaker that hit Apple’s and Android’s app stores last summer. But if you dive deeper you may realize that AR is still an underestimated futuristic tech.

Nevertheless, there are a few really cool AR apps worth mentioning:

Star Chart – The #1 stargazing app that turns your phone into a window to space full of magical constellations and far away planets.

Ink Hunter – Download this app before getting a tattoo, it may save you from regrets. InkHunter lets you try on virtual tattoos and share your sketches with friends so you could gather a valuable feedback on how they look.  

WallaMe – Created for those cyber-romantics and vandals who like to cover walls with graffiti. This app opens new dimension and allows you to leave virtual Messages in public places.

 Google Translate – Useful app for travelers who need to translate signs, product descriptions or even crazy Japanese billboards.

And Snapchat of course!

While 3D-printing, Virtual Reality, and those die-hard robots from Boston Dynamics have already strapped into consumer world, AR is barely noticeable. The only powerful AR example is Microsoft Hololens, unfortunately, it’s still not available for purchase.

But the real opportunity for AR software developers lies in B2B sector. Particularly in Logistics, Industrial Design, Industrial Maintenance & Education.

AR in Logistics

Unlike Amazon that relies heavily on robots, DHL wants to take advantage of Augmented Reality’s potential.

There are several areas in which the company intends to use AR:

• Warehousing Operations – DHL is already testing AR headsets that grant hands-free, intuitive support to workers during manual picking operations and while navigating around the warehouse.
• Transportation Optimization – By using AR devices with scanners and 3D depth sensors the company expects to speed up completeness checks and cargo loading process of its freight fleet.
• International Trade – The technology can provide a prompt translation support for customs officers, so they could quickly ensure that the shipment complies with the relevant import/export regulations.
• Last-mile Delivery – Estimates suggest that drivers spend between 40% to 60% of their time not driving but locating required package inside the truck. AR may cut those expenses by providing quick identification. Plus augmented reality could finally replace ID cards and signatures with Visual Identification.

Industrial Design with AR Tools

Those who have been involved into Industrial Design process may recall how difficult it may be to create something that fits three main needs of every customer: cost, appearance, and usability. AR makes it possible to visualize concept upon development and enhance the understanding of its ergonomics and appearance.

Industrial Maintenance & Education

Needless to say that complexification of production machinery and the industry itself creates a shortage of specialized personnel who can manage those systems. This situation leads to a rise of wages and slows the adoption of new standards and technologies inside the industry.

Under such conditions, Augmented Reality offers a new approach to education of workers. The adoption of AR headsets equipped with visual instructions can eliminate the extreme specialization and intensive training of new workers.

Moreover, the AR could cut the expenses on maintenance, so that a company or a customer could perform product service without external help of manufacturer. AR Games that work particularly well on your iPhone.

And do you use ARKit 4 or ARCore?