AR, Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality (AR) is a real-time technology that enhances the physical world by overlaying digital content—such as 3D models, animations, text, graphics, or audio—on top of the user’s real-world environment. This blending of digital and physical layers is typically achieved through smartphones, tablets, headsets, or smart glasses.

AR enables contextual interaction without disconnecting the user from the real world. In consumer applications, AR is widely used in gaming, navigation, and retail experiences. In industrial contexts, AR offers more advanced functionality:

• Work instructions: Technicians can view step-by-step maintenance or assembly instructions overlaid directly on equipment.
• Remote assistance: Experts can guide on-site staff visually through AR interfaces.
• Asset visualisation: 3D models or status data can be superimposed onto physical assets for faster diagnostics or verification.
• Training: Operators can learn processes through immersive, hands-on simulations.

AR increases situational awareness, reduces errors, and streamlines decision-making by providing just-in-time digital information tied to real-world tasks and locations.

See also: VR (Virtual Reality), MR (Mixed Reality), XR (Extended Reality)