Reality Augmentation – Technology Looks to Improve on Reality

Reality augmentation is receiving a lot of attention from the press lately.  Developers are going so far as to claim that using the technology is better than the real world.

Explanation of Reality Augmentation

In plain English, reality augmentation involves combining digital graphics with the real world.  The technology was first developed by a large manufacturer by allowing an electrician to wear a helmet while working on a wiring layout.  The helmet had goggles that allowed the user to “see” the new wiring scheme and make the realistic wires match the image on the screen.  But developers and users have realized that almost any part of the world can benefit from this technology.

Current Practical Uses

Various methods are taking advantage of the software.  An application for smart phones allow users to point the phone at the sky and see the layout of various constellations.  Another application will show people the closest bus station by merely pointing the phone at the street before them.  And game developers are anticipating a whole new world of games in their future.  Real estate agents are hoping to adapt the technology to make showing homes more efficient.  Potential buyers could enter chat rooms while the Realtor is at a listed home.  The agent could point their smart phone at the home and allow the buyers to see the details from the comfort of their living room.

Possible Assistance for Health Care

One particularly beneficial use of the software could be in the area of health care.  By using a smart phone device at home, elderly people could transmit their information to friends and relatives anywhere around the world.  Rather than call someone to chat about their ailments and problems, they could literally beam their blood pressure, pulse and other vital signs to anyone with an internet connection.

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