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Companies are using AR to give their customers a unique experience. AR can be used to offer customers real-time updates, interactive advertisements, and product demonstrations. It has been shown that the emotional connection created by people when they interact with or touch a particular product increases the likelihood that they will buy it. According to a report, the market for virtual reality and augmented reality is worth an estimated approx $215 billion. This market is attractive to large corporations like Google, Apple, Facebook, etc. As well as a small business.
The Key Takeaways
- AR isn't just for entertainment. AR is used in many industries, including healthcare, architecture, ecommerce, and more.
- AR applications can be classified into two types: marker-based AR and location-based AR. Marker-based AR apps display AR overlays on top of images. Location-based AR uses GPS, accelerometers, or compass information to overlay AR objects onto physical images.
- Consider the following when choosing an AR SDK: price, platforms, image recognition, tracking support, Unity, OpenSceneGraph GPS, etc.
- This article provides a table that summarizes the key characteristics and features of six AR toolkits.
Augmented Reality Technology
Hardware, power, and the AR application are all factors to be considered:
Mobile Augmented Reality Platforms
Smartphones offer unique advantages over other AR platforms. They're available everywhere, and they are very portable. AR is now affordable for many people who can no longer afford smart glasses or headsets. Businesses have become increasingly interested in mobile AR due to its ease of use.
Mobile AR is not the most immersive or powerful innovative technology, but it can still generate significant revenue. The metaverse is best experienced through AR avatars, filters, and smartphones.
There are three options for mobile AR:
- Create native Android AR apps with ARCore.
- Native iOS AR Apps using ARKit.
- Apps for multiple platforms.
It will cost more, but it could be worth the money if you need more features and power for your app. Cross-platform code is sufficient if the app's not complicated. Despite Android's popularity, GitHub appears to have always preferred ARKit based on the number of repositories they created over the last few years.
What Types Of Augmented Reality Applications Are There?
Below we will explain the differences:
Applications Based On Marker
Apps with markers are based on image recognition. These AR apps use black-and-white markers to trigger AR content. To see the AR component, you must point your camera to a location of a mark anywhere in the globe. The app overlays digital data on top of the marker when it recognizes the marker. They are used in advertising. These apps are used a lot in advertising.
Location-Based Applications
Location-based AR apps work without markers. These apps use a GPS to determine the location of a user; then overlay augmented realities in the real world. Pokemon Go is the most popular application.
Apps are able to notify users of new AR content based on their location. For example, an app could give recommendations about the best bars in your neighborhood and how you can reach them. You can use GPS to locate your car in a parking lot.
What Are The Main Criteria For Choosing An Augmented Reality Software Development Kit (SDK)?
When it comes to choosing a development tool, it's easy to get frustrated. You have a lot of options. Make sure the SDK you choose has the features your project requires.
Cost Of The Product
Open-source AR SDKs offer the best value for people who want to start using AR. These are the simplest to use. Most SDKs have different pricing options based on the needs of the customer. The free tiers will only be available for a limited time and are meant to be a demonstration version. Commercial licenses will need to be purchased to create a large application with dynamic and complex content. Be ready to pay.
Platforms
There are a limited number of AR tools that have durable workflows with Windows and macOS. However, you can build apps on Windows and Android phones and computers by using the augmented Reality Development Kit models.
Image Recognition
This feature is vital for AR apps, as it allows the user to identify objects, images, and places. To achieve this, smartphones and other devices use machine vision, artificial intelligence, and camera software to track and recognize images. The HTML and animations can be added to these images.
Tracking & 3D Recognition
One of the most important features of AR SDK is the ability to track 3D images. This feature allows the application to "understand the space" around the user in large buildings such as airports, shopping centers, and buses. Applications can recognize objects that are three-dimensional, like cups, boxes, toys, and cylinders. Mobile games and e-commerce use this technology.
Support For Unity
Unity is a powerful game engine that can be used for both AR and computer video games. You can use Unity to create a new immersive experience or to enhance an old idea with innovative techniques.
Support For OpenSceneGraph
OpenSceneGraph is an open-source 3D graphics toolkit. It's used by app developers in fields such as the computer gaming industry and augmented reality.
Cloud Storage vs. Local Storage
If you are developing AR apps for mobile devices, you will need to decide whether to store the data locally or in the cloud. This decision is largely determined by the number of markers you intend to use. If you don't, your app will consume a large amount of space. Some SDKs support only 100 markers, while others can handle thousands. You can also store markers directly on the device. It allows your users to access your app even without Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Support For GPS (geolocation)
GPS is used by AR apps such as Pokemon Go and AR games like Pokemon Go.
Support For SLAM
SLAM is an acronym for Simultaneous location and mapping. It maps the area of the user and records their movements. It is not limited to AR apps.
Top 6 Augmented Reality SDKs For Mobile Apps
Once you've made a list with all the features you need, you can check out these popular toolkits. They are the best because of their features and price. Many are free.
Vuforia
Vuforia is a leading portal for augmented-reality applications. Vuforia's SDK:
- This feature allows you to recognize a variety of objects, such as toys, cylinders, boxes, and images.
- Support for text recognition, up to 100,000 words.
- Create VuMarks which are much more attractive than QR codes.
- The Smart Terrain feature of the app allows you to create 3D geometric maps for any area.
- Transforms still images onto a flat surface into full-motion video.
- This plugin is available for Unity.
- Both local and cloud storage is supported.
Supported platforms: iOS, Android, Universal Windows Platform, Unity.
Price: Free version. The classic version is approx $499 once. The cloud version is $99 per month. Pro version for commercial use.
ARToolKit
ARToolKit is an open-source app for creating augmented reality applications. Although it's free, it offers a wealth of tracking features, such as:
- Unity3D support and OpenSceneGraph.
- Support for both single and dual cameras.
- AR applications that are location-based can be created with GPS or compasses.
- Real-time AR application creation is possible.
- Integrate Smart Glasses.
- Multiple Languages Supported.
- Automatic camera calibration.
Platforms supported include Android, iOS, and Windows.
Pricing: free
Google ARCore
Google ARCore is the result of Google's decision to let developers build AR apps for Android. Google ARCore has been around.
This toolkit has features such as:
- Motion tracking. The camera is used to locate and orientate the device and to place virtual objects accurately.
- Understanding the environment. Using horizontal surface detection, you can place virtual objects on the table or floor. This feature is useful for tracking movement.
- Light estimation. You can adjust the lighting of the virtual object to match the ambient light. Developers can create objects that appear very real.
Google Pixel, Pixel XL, and Pixel 2 XL are currently supported devices. Samsung Galaxy S7, S8 and Note8, Samsung A5 to A8, Samsung Note8, Asus ZENFONE AR, Huawei, P20. OnePlus 5. ARCore is compatible with Android 7.0 and higher.
Pricing: free
Apple ARKit
Apple SDK for iOS augmented-reality features are listed here:
- Visual inertial odometry allows for accurate tracking of an environment without additional calibration.
- Face tracking allows you to easily create 3D facial expressions and apply effects.
- Determine the brightness of virtual objects by using the light levels in the environment.
- It detects horizontal surfaces like tables and floors, as well as vertical surfaces or irregularly shaped surfaces.
- Developers can interact with 2D objects through detection.
- Integrate tools from third-party providers such as Unity and Unreal Engine.
suitable for iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, as well as iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. iPad Pro. iPad Pro 9.7, 10.5, and 12.9. First and second generations. iPad. iPhone 8 Plus. iPhone X.
Pricing: free
Maxst
MAXST provides two SDKs. A 2D SDK for tracking images and a 3D SDK for environment recognition. The 3DSDK offers the following features.
- Mapping and tracking environments with MAXST Visual Simultaneous Maps. When you track the environment, the map will expand. Save maps to use later.
- Save files using Visual Simultaneous Mapping & Localization. You can place 3D objects on any part of the file. This makes it more immersive.
- Barcodes and QR codes.
- Tracking multiple targets with extended images. Follow the target to the maximum distance the camera can see. Track 3 images at once.
- Track digital objects placed on the plane.
- Unity Plugin Integration.
Android, iOS, and Mac VR operating systems are supported platforms.
Pricing: Enterprise version; Free version; Pro One-time charge of approx $499; Pro-Subscription fee of approx $599 annually.
Wikitude
Wikitude SDK7 supports simultaneous mapping and localization. The tool offers the following features.
- Tracking & 3D tracking.
- Image tracking.
- Cloud Recognition (allows for the use of thousands of images as targets).
- Location-based services.
- Integration with smart glasses.
- Integrate other plugins, including Unity.
Supported platforms: Android, iOS, and smart glasses (currently the Epson BT-200, Vuzix M100, and Google Glass).
Price: Each app costs EUR2490. Pro3D costs EUR 2990. Cloud services cost EUR4490. Enterprise versions cost EUR4490.
How To Create An Augmented Reality App
Building an AR application sounds exciting and profitable. However, if you view it as a project, it will require a lot of planning, decision-making, and the hiring of staff and purchasing of technology tools. Avoiding the pitfalls is possible by doing thorough market research, competitor analysis, and having a solid, well-thought-out business plan.
- Select which AR app you want to launch.
- You may also include any additional features you wish to include.
- Choose a stack of technologies and create a development strategy.
- Hiring a developer for AR to meet the technical milestones.
- After testing your AR app, launch it.
Here's a guide to creating an AR application.
Read More: Ten Real-time Cases that are possible with Augmented-reality (AR)
Choose The Type Of AR App You Wish To Create And Launch
The type of AR application you choose will depend on your business needs.
- If you are a startup, then it is likely that you want to create an app with futuristic features. Fill in a hole, integrate Augmented reality technology into a business previously not supported, or develop a game compatible with AR.
- If you already have a business, then you are likely looking for ways to increase sales and marketing. Follow the example of IKEA Place. Add AR features to existing business apps.
What Types of Augmented Reality Applications are there?
There are two types of apps that you can use to invest in augmented reality:
Marker Apps
Apps with markers are the easiest to use. They can include QR codes, images, or symbols. Triggers for AR objects or scenes are captured using the app or device's camera. Backend processing is done by the app.
These AR applications are cheaper and don't rely on complex technology.
Vuforia and Wikitude, as well as other AR-supporting software and frameworks, are built on markers. We suggest you look at open-source SDKs. Compare their suitability for your project, check their eligibility, and then create a tech stack.
Location-based Apps
The app's camera scans the real world and identifies objects. It places 3D objects based on the backend programming concepts.
Due to the advanced architecture, location-based AR apps are expensive to develop and can take up to five months to complete. AR toolkit is by far the most popular software for creating location-based AR apps.
List The Features That You Would Like To Add
These are the five most important features of an augmented reality system:
- GPS Tracking and Map Integration.
- Built-in camera - scans and captures real-world scenes.
- Marker recognition - for detecting images, icons, QR codes, etc.
- Text-based and 3D Graphics Library.
- Guest signup and social media sharing.
As an approver, you can choose to offer as many features or as few as you like. It is important to balance the core functionality of an app and enhance the experience for the user. Let's take an example. Add an AR scanning feature to a marketplace app. This sounds great and completes the user experience. Launch an app that measures and then add a push notification.
You can keep in touch with users by sending them alerts or reminders. If you send out too many notifications, it may actually reduce the user experience and result in lower downloads. Consult with a UX strategist or product manager during this phase to ensure the app has a minimalistic look and that it's been tested on usability.
Now is the time to get into the actual development process, coding, and programming.
Choose A Tech Stack And Develop A Development Strategy
Once you have decided on the features you want to include in your app, you will need to select the right tools and technologies. Each feature requires different levels of support and code.
Technically speaking, Augmented Reality apps require a solid programming infrastructure. This is especially true in the backend. It helps them to recognize and integrate two landscapes.
AR requires the development of specific software and frameworks. AR requires specific software and frameworks to be developed:
- The size of your AR app and the audience you're targeting.
- Core Features and Functionality.
- You intend to expand the AR business or product you offer in the future.
- Budget for AR App Development.
Tech Stack For Augmented Reality Apps
A typical AR app is made up of the following:
Languages Of Programming
C++ and HTML are the most common choices when building a tech stack. A tech stack is at the core of any digital product, be it an app, a website, SaaS, or corporate software.
Frames Front End and Back End
Python's compatibility with a variety of languages and databases makes it a good choice for AR developers.
AR Frameworks
We use three of the most popular AR SDKs for development:
- Wikitude
Wikitude's Premium AR Development Kit is exclusively designed for corporations, businesses, and enterprises that are investing in Augmented Reality. This software includes features such as image recognition, CMS integration, location-based support, 3D detection, and CMS integration.
Wikitude Studio, one of the company's products, is a specialized product. Wikitude Studio is one of the company's specialized products.
Wikitude has a free basic plan, but it is not suitable for AR app development. Enterprise plans start at EUR2490 and are available on custom quotes.
- MAXST
MAXST is a Korean AR Framework that has two software development kits dedicated to tracking objects in 2D and detecting their 3D location.
Many app developers use MAXST to create AR games, as it is compatible with Unity. AR features also include image tracking, mapping of the environment, and placing digital objects in simulations or real-world environments.
- Vuforia
Another leading AR framework and software is Vuforia. This company offers a wide range of corporate products, including the Vuforia engine.
Supports Android and iOS. Unity is also supported. Vuforia's basic prototyping plan costs as little as approx $99/month when you add the cloud-based options.
This article discusses six AR Frameworks that can be utilized for Android or iOS applications.
A powerful database, such as MongoDB or MySQL, will be required to create AR applications, just as with other apps. Cloud services, like AWS and Amazon Web Services, are also needed.
Hiring A Developer Of Ar Apps And Completing The Technical Milestones
This A-team will support you throughout the development process. Only if you are a business person and not very proficient in programming will you need a smaller group.
Your choice of human resources will be a major cost center in your project. By analyzing the work location and operational location of your team, you can optimize your costs:
- Hiring a team of full-time employees and paying their full salaries is expensive.
- Hiring a development team on an hourly basis is a brand-new concept that gives you complete control over the project schedule.
- It is common to outsource your entire app project. Remotely monitoring the project's progress will ensure it is completed on schedule, tested, and released.
Tips on Where to Hire:
- You should have a budget in mind when you hire from the USA. The cost is lower than European developers.
- While you can find the lowest rates in the Middle East if you do your research, it is important to carefully evaluate the portfolio of a company before signing any contract.
Launch Your Product Using The Augmented Reality App
You must test your app prior to releasing it to the public for use and download. AR developers use three standards for testing and assessing the quality of mobile technology apps: Technical performance QA experts evaluate both the backend as well as the front end of the app. QA ensures the build is free of bugs and viruses and that it does not crash across platforms.
This is the test that focuses on the app's loading time, signup, sign-in and other features. The security of an app is a key factor. Penetration testers will conduct ethical hacking to ensure the app does not leak sensitive information. They also assess the app's accuracy. AR apps must be able to accurately recognize text, images, locations, and the environment. Functional testing, unit testing, and instrument testing are all types of testing. Once the client approves it, it is ready to launch and deploy in the store.
Conclusions
Augmented reality is a very popular technology. Each new AR app launch generates excitement. Therefore, developers are trying to master this technology to launch their AR applications. This article compares various features, such as image and 3D recognition, storage options, and Unity support, in order to help developers select the right toolkit.
