Augmented reality (AR) is an immersive technology that integrates digital information into the real world

Augmented reality (AR) refers to the real-time integration of digital information into a user’s environment. AR technology overlays content onto the real world, enriching a user’s perception of reality rather than replacing it.

AR devices are equipped with cameras, sensors and displays. This can include smartphones and tablets creating mobile AR experiences or ‘wearables’ like smart glasses and headsets. These devices capture the physical world and then integrate digital content (for example, 3D models, images or videos) into the scene, blending digital and virtual worlds.

Augmented reality’s benefits can also extend to the healthcare sector, where it can play a much bigger role. AR apps enable users to see highly detailed, 3D images of different body systems when they hover mobile devices over a target image. This use of AR has become a powerful learning tool for training medical professionals.

Augmented reality and virtual reality are often confused—augmented reality uses the existing real-world environment and puts virtual information—or even a virtual world—on top of it to enhance the experience.

In contrast, virtual reality immerses users into an entirely different environment, typically a virtual one created and rendered by computers. Mixed reality is a version that combines augmented and virtual realities.