Augmented Reality (AR) is transforming the way we interact with the world around us. From virtual shopping experiences to immersive gaming, the applications of AR are endless. Designers can leverage this technology to create innovative and engaging experiences for their users. In this blog, we’ll explore how designers can use AR to design with a new lens and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

What is Augmented Reality? 🤔

Augmented Reality is a technology that superimposes digital objects onto the real world. It enhances our perception of reality by adding computer-generated elements to our view. AR can be experienced through devices like smartphones, tablets, and smart glasses. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as entertainment, education, and advertising. AR is different from Virtual Reality (VR) in that it doesn’t require a completely virtual environment. Instead, it enhances the real world by adding digital elements to it.

An image of a person using a smartphone to experience AR

How can Designers use Augmented Reality? 🎨

Designers can use AR to create immersive experiences that bridge the physical and digital worlds. They can use AR to add layers of information, animation, and interactivity to physical spaces. AR allows designers to create experiences that are dynamic, engaging, and interactive. For example, a designer could create an AR experience that allows users to interact with a virtual object in the real world, such as trying on a virtual piece of clothing or viewing a product in a virtual environment.

An image of a designer working on an AR experience on a computer

Benefits of Augmented Reality in Design 🌟

AR offers several benefits for designers looking to create unique experiences for their users. Some of these benefits include:

  • Immersive experiences: AR allows designers to create immersive experiences that engage users on multiple levels.
  • Increased engagement: AR experiences can increase engagement by providing users with interactive, dynamic, and personalized content.
  • Better user understanding: AR can help users better understand complex concepts by adding layers of information to the real world.
  • Increased brand awareness: AR can be used to create memorable experiences that increase brand awareness and loyalty.

An image of a person interacting with an AR experience

Tools for Designing with AR 🛠️

There are several tools designers can use to create AR experiences. Some popular tools include:

  • Spark AR
  • Unity
  • ARKit
  • ARCore
  • Vuforia

These tools allow designers to create 3D models, animations, and interactions that can be layered onto the real world. They also provide tools for testing and deploying AR experiences on various devices.

An image of a designer working with an AR tool on a computer

Tips for Designing with AR 💡

Designing with AR requires a different approach than traditional design. Here are some tips to keep in mind when designing with AR:

  • Consider the user’s environment: When designing an AR experience, it’s essential to consider the user’s environment. This includes lighting, noise, and spatial limitations.
  • Plan for user interaction: AR experiences should be designed with user interaction in mind. Consider how users will interact with virtual objects in the real world and design for that interaction.
  • Keep it simple: AR experiences should be simple and intuitive. Avoid adding too much visual clutter or information overload.
  • Test, test, test: AR experiences should be tested on various devices and in various environments to ensure they work as intended.

An image of a designer testing an AR experience on a smartphone

Conclusion 🎉

Augmented Reality offers a world of possibilities for designers looking to push the boundaries of what’s possible. By designing with a new lens, designers can create immersive, engaging experiences that transform the way we interact with the world around us. With the right tools and approach, AR has the potential to change the way we design and experience the world.

An image of a person experiencing an AR shopping experience

And that’s it folks! Thanks for reading my blog about designing with a new lens and exploring the possibilities of AR. Till next time! 😉