Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are two technologies that have recently seen unprecedented influence in the digital landscape. In a way, these technologies have achieved what technology has always wanted to do, which is to blur the line between lived reality and digital reality.
Nearly every tech giant has embraced AR and VR technologies for their unique offerings. AR and VR have spawned a multitude of unique applications across all categories. They have helped make digital interactions seamless, content smarter and user engagement easier by providing a truly immersive and intuitive experience.
5G, the fastest mobile network ever, will ensure the smoothest data transfer to the cloud and a rich virtual experience for consumers. Another big improvement is the promise of working in low bandwidth where network signals are weaker. With 5G, users should enjoy much richer and enhanced virtual and augmented experiences while using less expensive devices and headsets.
But AR and VR have also experienced several performance bottlenecks due to inconsistent network speed, higher latency and lack of multitasking capabilities. Well, such shortcomings will be a thing of the past with the emergence of the 5G network. 5G is already here and will soon be available to the masses worldwide. There is no doubt that 5G will have a huge positive impact on AR and VR applications.
Here we will explain some of the most crucial trends in the development of 5G-powered VR and AR applications.
Automotive systems powered by AR and VR
Self-driving vehicles have already been successfully tested and are waiting to be launched in the market in the near future. But these autonomous cars, once launched, are likely to offer something even more interesting. Yes, you guessed it, autonomous vehicles of the future may incorporate augmented reality (AR) for a revolutionary transportation experience.
Smart sensors that constantly monitor traffic around the vehicle can actually send signals to other cars about their proximity. A large truck that blocks the view ahead for other vehicles following it can even be equipped with a smart rear screen to show traffic ahead to avoid unnecessary attempts to pass.
Current network conditions do not allow for these smart maneuvers, as immersive virtual displays and AR enhancements on the road in autonomous vehicles require a fast connection and low-latency network. The 5G network is likely to provide an answer to these constraints.
AR and VR to enhance the shopping experience
E-commerce customers are already accustomed to virtual product displays with immersive 3D experiences. Customers can now see a product from all angles - Jatha is one 360-degree video away equipped with 3D visuals. They can even interact, move the products on display, get into action and try the products virtually. The virtual test room experience has already been adopted by all major fashion brands and virtual reality displays for automobiles have become the norm for car manufacturers.
On the other hand, augmented reality (AR) has also made great inroads into the retail shopping experience, whether for online stores or for real stores and supermarkets. For example, a home furnishings app can allow you to embed the furniture of your choice into the image of your room and give you a 3D representation of the overall feel and look, as well as the exact ramifications of the furniture footprint in the space. When shopping in a store, you can simply scan a product with your mobile device and get instant details on your device screen, and place orders from your mobile.
In retail in particular, virtual reality and augmented reality have played a huge role in providing a smart, crisp user experience by removing the constraints of physical access. But the virtual and augmented reality experience in retail is often limited by low speed and poor network conditions. This is where 5G network technology can play an important role.