Top 10 Biggest AR and VR Trends in 2024

Step into the realm where reality seamlessly intertwines with the virtual, as we embark on a journey to explore the most captivating trends in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) for the year 2024. In this rapidly evolving landscape, technological advancements continue to redefine the way we perceive and interact with our surroundings. 

As we get into the immersive world of AR and VR, free your mind from the confines of the present and join us in unraveling the top 10 trends that are set to shape the future of these groundbreaking technologies. From augmented experiences that blur the boundaries of reality to virtual realms that push the limits of imagination, this exploration is a passport to the cutting-edge innovations awaiting us in 2024 – all without the need for a plug. Embrace the limitless possibilities, as we unveil the next chapter in the evolution of AR and VR.

What is AR/VR Technology?

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are groundbreaking technologies revolutionizing digital interaction. AR enhances the real-world view by overlaying digital information, introducing additional elements like images and sound.

 For instance, it can display sports score overlays during broadcasts or incorporate 3D elements into messages. AR is characterized as 25% virtual and 75% real, seamlessly blending digital augmentations with the natural environment. In contrast, VR generates computer-simulated environments, immersing users in alternate realities primarily utilized in 3D movies and video games. 

VR requires a headset and sensory devices for full immersion, presenting an environment that is 75% virtual and 25% real. Both technologies redefine digital engagement, providing distinctive and powerful experiences.

Also read, “Hire VR Developers: An Ultimate Checklist “

Key Market Takeaways for the AR/VR Sector

According to MarketsAndMarkets, in a landscape where the Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) market is poised to surge from USD 25.1 billion in 2023 to an anticipated USD 71.2 billion by 2028, businesses interested in future-proofing their operations can explore strategic investment opportunities. The sector’s impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23.2% signifies a lucrative avenue for those looking to align with cutting-edge technologies and secure a competitive edge.

Targeted Applications for Growth

Understanding the divergent trajectories of AR and VR provides businesses with valuable insights into targeted applications for growth. With the VR market projected to reach USD 29.6 billion by 2028 at a CAGR of 18.0%, industries seeking immersive experiences, especially in gaming, education, and simulations, can strategically leverage Virtual Reality for unparalleled user engagement.

Source: MarketsAndMarkets

Revolutionizing Customer Interaction

For businesses aiming to revolutionize customer interaction, AR and VR technologies offer transformative solutions. Augmented Reality enriches real-world environments, allowing brands to create interactive advertisements and personalized content. This dynamic shift from passive observation to active participation redefines how businesses connect with their audience, fostering deeper emotional connections.

Capitalizing on Investment Surge

Businesses can capitalize on the notable surge in investments in the AR market, driven by its transformative impact across diverse industries. The advancements in AR hardware and software make it more accessible, offering a myriad of applications beyond entertainment. Companies that integrate AR into their operations stand to enhance user experiences, improve efficiency, and explore new revenue streams.

Immersive Marketing Strategies

For businesses looking to elevate their marketing strategies, AR emerges as a game-changer. Crafting dynamic consumer experiences and immersive campaigns through AR not only captivates audiences but also establishes a lasting connection. From interactive advertisements to personalized product visualization, AR empowers businesses to break traditional advertising boundaries and create unforgettable brand experiences.

North America’s Tech Hub

Recognizing North America’s dominance in the AR and VR markets presents a unique opportunity for businesses aiming to stay at the forefront of technological advancements. With the region serving as a hub for cutting-edge display device technologies, businesses can strategically align themselves with the latest innovations by leveraging partnerships or collaborations with key players in the North American market.

Industry-Specific Adoption

Businesses seeking tailored solutions can explore industry-specific adoption of AR technologies. The growth in the AR market across aerospace & defense, healthcare, consumer goods, and commercial industries highlights its versatile applications. Companies looking to enhance productivity, accuracy, and overall operational efficiency can strategically integrate AR solutions within their specific industry contexts.

Also read, “Top 7 Applications of VR in Fashion Industry“

Top 10 AR/VR Trends in 2024

Here’re some of top trends in the AR/VR sector this year,

1. Generative AI in AR/VR

Utilize AI-powered avatars for immersive virtual training, remote collaboration, and 3D design. These avatars enhance real-time data analysis, task management, and personalized learning during collaborative projects, revolutionizing virtual workspaces.

Actionable Insights

• Develop AR/VR platforms integrating AI for seamless collaboration, elevating user experiences through intelligent avatars, and transforming the landscape of remote collaboration and training.
• Implement real-time data analysis and task management features within AR/VR platforms to streamline workflows, enabling personalized learning experiences during collaborative projects.

Real-world Examples:

• Mark Zuckerberg’s Advocacy: Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, champions AI integration for efficient immersive project development.
• Customer Service Chatbots: AI-driven characters enhance customer support within AR/VR environments.
• Powerful and Robust Devices: Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, and Apple Vision Pro set new standards for powerful AR/VR headsets.
• Multi-Sensory Technology on Devices: Haptic gloves simulate realistic sensations, enriching the interaction with virtual objects.

2. Rise of AR Avatars

Unleash the power of AR avatars to transform marketing dynamics. Craft branded virtual influencers for impactful campaigns, engaging product tutorials, and immersive customer interactions. Redefine marketing strategies with these dynamic and personalized virtual personalities.

Actionable Insights:

• Partner with established or niche virtual influencers to promote your brand within their audience demographics, leveraging their existing reach.
• Utilize AR avatars for interactive virtual showrooms and personalized customer service experiences to enhance engagement and create memorable brand interactions.

Real-world Examples:

• Balmain’s Virtual Army: Luxury brand Balmain created a virtual army of digital models for marketing campaigns, forming a new digital marketing strategy.
• IKEA’s Product Tutorials: IKEA uses AR avatars for interactive product tutorials, allowing customers to visualize furniture in their homes.
• Gucci’s Customer Engagement: Gucci’s AR app lets customers try on shoes virtually, providing a personalized shopping experience.
• Interactive Virtual Showrooms: Shopify integrates AR into its platform, allowing businesses to create 3D models for interactive virtual showrooms, enhancing the shopping experience.
• Personalized Customer Service: H&M’s virtual assistant uses AR to help customers find products, answer questions, and provide fashion advice, offering personalized customer service.

Also read, “AR In E-commerce For Virtual Shopping Experience“

3. Gearing Up Vehicles with AR

Revolutionize autonomous vehicles with cutting-edge AR heads-up displays. Elevate navigation, safety, and entertainment with personalized features. This innovative design ensures a seamless and immersive driving experience, setting new standards for the future of transportation..

Actionable Insights:

• Partner with automotive manufacturers to develop AR integrations for vehicles, offering unique value propositions to customers.
• Collaborate on creating personalized entertainment options within AR heads-up displays, catering to the evolving expectations of modern vehicle users.

Real-world Examples:

• Mercedes-Benz AR-HUD: The 2021 S-Class sedan offers an AR heads-up display (AR-HUD) projecting information 33 feet away, enhancing navigation and safety.

• Audi’s AR-HUD: The Q4 e-tron Sportback features an augmented reality heads-up display.

• Hyundai Virtual Guide: Hyundai’s AR smartphone application helps owners understand their vehicles better, replacing traditional instruction manuals.

• Toyota’s Driving Environment Simulation: Toyota uses software, TeenDrive 365, to simulate the aftermath of negligent driving and educate users.

• BMW’s Virtual Model: BMW released its crossover SUV segment entirely in the virtual model, showcasing the potential of AR in the automotive industry.

4. 5G Will Speed Up AR/VR Evolution

The integration of 5G technology into AR/VR landscapes is poised to revolutionize industries. One significant business application is the investment in cloud-based AR/VR solutions that leverage 5G’s low latency and high bandwidth. This allows for seamless remote collaboration and data streaming, transforming the way industries operate.

Actionable Insights

• Investing in cloud-based AR/VR solutions utilizing 5G’s low latency and high bandwidth for seamless remote collaboration and data streaming.
• Developing location-based AR experiences to enhance user engagement and interaction with the real world.

Real-World Examples

• STL Partners: This company delves deep into specific use cases and real-life applications of AR/VR. With the commercial deployment of 5G, STL Partners predicts that augmented reality and virtual reality will bring great value to industries and enterprises by tapping into new use cases.

• Hong Kong Telecommunications (HKT): HKT has harnessed the power of 5G, AR, and drones to revolutionize its field service operations. This integration provides a safer and more efficient approach to operational challenges, showcasing the real-world impact of 5G in AR/VR.

• Headout: An on-demand mobile marketplace, Headout explores AR, visual, and audio experiences to create new digital experiences. This illustrates how 5G-enabled AR can redefine the user journey in the travel and tourism sector.

• Verizon: Exploring 5G-enabled AR technology, Verizon aims to help teams visualize processes in near real-time. This facilitates coordination among multiple parties, highlighting the potential of 5G in enhancing collaboration.

4. Advent of WebAR

The advent of WebAR has transformed marketing strategies by allowing businesses to integrate interactive product demos, virtual try-ons, and immersive brand experiences into their websites and marketing materials

Actionable Insights

• Integrating WebAR into websites and marketing materials for interactive product demos, virtual try-ons, and immersive brand experiences.
• Partnering with WebAR platform providers to offer innovative marketing campaigns and increase customer engagement without requiring app downloads.

Real-World Examples

• Huggies: Leveraging WebAR for a marketing campaign in Malaysia, Huggies allowed customers to virtually access their new product line. This demonstrates how WebAR can enhance product visibility and engagement.

• Dell Technologies: Dell utilizes WebAR immersive portals to transport users to different places or even different worlds. This showcases the potential of WebAR in creating unique and captivating online experiences.

• Universal’s “Trolls World Tour”: Universal used WebAR for the promotion of their movie, showcasing how entertainment industries are embracing this technology for immersive promotional campaigns.

• Coca-Cola #Refreshwherevs: Coca-Cola’s use of WebAR in their marketing campaign #Refreshwherevs highlights how major brands are adopting this technology for interactive and engaging promotions.

• Porsche Brand Academy: Porsche utilized WebAR for their Brand Academy, showcasing the versatility of WebAR in various industries beyond traditional marketing.

6. Advancement in AR/VR Displays

The advancement in AR/VR displays, specifically focusing on eye-tracking technology, is reshaping user interaction and personalizing content adjustments for a more immersive experience.

Actionable Insights

• Investing in AR/VR headsets with eye-tracking technology for enhanced user interaction and personalized content adjustments
• Developing AR/VR experiences that utilize focus tracking for targeted product recommendations within immersive environments.

Real-World Examples

• Foveated Rendering: PSVR 2 and Quest Pro exemplify headsets with built-in eye-tracking, reducing the computational power required for demanding AR and VR scenes.

• Varifocal Displays: Dynamic alteration of focal depth, enabled by eye-tracking, is crucial for replicating natural vision. Medical applications, such as SyncThink’s VR goggles for testing patients for visual impairments, showcase the broad spectrum of applications.

• Business-Specific Applications: XR in remote work, utilizing eye-tracking, proves rewarding for industries involving cooperative design, product development, and simulations. It is particularly beneficial in the recruitment process for measuring candidate performance through simulations and gamified experiences.

7. Remote Assistance via Virtual and Augmented Reality:

Implement AR/VR platforms for remote field service and maintenance support, enabling technicians to offer real-time guidance and assistance virtually.

Actionable Insights:

• Develop training programs to educate employees on utilizing AR/VR tools for remote assistance, improving efficiency and responsiveness to customer needs.
• Explore collaboration with companies offering AR remote assistance tools like Vuforia Chalk and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Remote Assist.

Real-world Examples:

• Vuforia Chalk: An AR remote assistance tool designed for on-site technicians, aiding industrial enterprises in scaling knowledge rapidly.

• Microsoft Dynamics 365 Remote Assist: Combines HoloLens functionality for a hands-free AR remote assistance experience.

• Boeing: Engineers at Boeing reduced wiring production time by 25% by replacing assembly manuals with smart glasses displays.

• GE: GE is testing a “smart helmet” for technicians at natural gas plants, enabling remote assistance during maintenance tasks.

8. Use of XR in Healthcare as a Medical Device:

Invest in the development of XR-based medical training simulations, surgical planning tools, and patient rehabilitation applications.

Actionable Insights:

• Partner with healthcare institutions to pilot XR technologies for specific medical applications, collecting valuable data for further development.
• Explore collaborations with established XR health providers like XRHealth and innovative medical device developers.

Real-world Examples:

• XRHealth: The first FDA and TGA-registered VR medical device company, offering solutions in physio, rehab, pain, cognitive, and mental health care.

• AccuVein: A vein visualizer using AR technology, aiding nurses in identifying veins’ paths through a phone camera.

• Imperial College London: VR-trained participants showed 83% success in spinal surgery completion with minimal guidance.

• Bionic Vision: XR is used for 3D VR models, aiding in viewing the hearts of conjoined twins and introducing the Holographic Navigation Platform for surgeons.

9. Emergence of AR-Based Indoor Navigation

Develop AR navigation systems for large indoor spaces like airports, malls, and museums to provide seamless wayfinding and enhance visitor experiences.

Actionable Insights:

• Partner with venue operators to implement AR navigation systems, offering branded AR content for additional revenue streams.
• Investigate and adopt proven AR navigation systems, like Google Maps and museum-specific mobile navigation systems.

Real-world Examples:

• Google Maps: Utilizes Visual Positioning System (VPS) for indoor navigation, enhancing wayfinding using a smartphone’s camera.

• Museums: Implementing mobile navigation systems for personalized visitor suggestions based on interest and location.

• Shopping Malls: AR navigation systems aiding customers in wayfinding and providing additional information about stores and products.

• Airports: Indoor positioning system beacons for accurate navigation within large spaces.

10. Establishment of AR and VR in the Education Domain:

Create interactive AR/VR learning experiences for educational institutions and corporate training programs to enhance engagement and knowledge retention.

Actionable Insights:

• Develop VR simulations tailored for specific professional fields to offer realistic training environments and improve skill development.
• Collaborate with educational technology providers like ArborXR, Maryville University, and ClassVR to integrate AR/VR into teaching practices.

Real-world Examples:

• ArborXR: Offers a platform for educators to incorporate AR experiences into teaching practices, covering various learning styles.

• Maryville University: This University in the USA, uses AR in classrooms for an interactive learning experience by superimposing sounds, videos, and graphics.

• ClassVR: Provides virtual reality educational experiences for schools, showcasing the implementation of VR in education.

Top 10 AR/VR Apps in 2024

Here’s a list of the top 10 AR/VR apps this year –

1. IKEA Place

IKEA Place is an AR app using Apple’s ARKit for virtual furniture placement in real spaces. It offers an immersive shopping experience by allowing users to visualize IKEA products before purchase.

Target Demographic: IKEA customers and those interested in home furnishing.

Standout Features:

• Utilizes AR for visualizing furniture in real-world spaces.
• User-friendly interface with compelling design.
• Provides an immersive and interactive shopping experience.

2. Google Lens

 Google Lens is an AI-powered image recognition technology that enhances user experiences through augmented reality and artificial intelligence. It enables searching the web using images or the device’s camera.

Target Demographic: The general public, especially frequent users of Google services.

Standout Features:

• Uses images and the device’s camera for Google Search.
• Identifies objects and text, delivering related information.
• Seamlessly integrated with other Google services for a comprehensive user experience.

3. SketchAR

SketchAR is an AI-based app for drawing, catering to aspiring artists. It combines theory and practice, offering over 550 drawing lessons and allowing users to share their creations globally.

Target Demographic: Aspiring artists and drawing enthusiasts.

Standout Features:

• Provides drawing lessons based on popular characters.
• Enables users to share artworks globally.
• Records time-lapse videos during the drawing process.

4. Just a Line

Just a Line is an app that allows users to create simple drawings in augmented reality. Users can draw in 3D space, and the app offers a straightforward interface for doodling.

Target Demographic: General public, especially those who enjoy doodling and drawing.

Standout Features:

• Allows users to draw in 3D space using AR.
• Simple and intuitive user interface.
• Facilitates sharing of drawings with others.

5. Magicplan

Magicplan is an AR app for creating floor plans, ideal for professionals in remodeling, restoration, real estate, and more. It uses AR and LiDAR technologies for instant floor plan creation.

Target Demographic: Professionals in remodeling, restoration, inspection, real estate, architecture, and interior design.

Standout Features:

• Instantly creates floor plans using AR and LiDAR.
• Allows addition of furniture and objects to floor plans.
• Provides material and cost estimator for remodeling projects.

6. Quiver

Quiver is a graphical editor for creating commutative and pasting diagrams, catering to mathematicians, educators, and students. It supports diagram export to LaTeX via tikz-cd.

Target Demographic: Mathematicians, educators, and students.

Standout Features:

• Creates and shares commutative and pasting diagrams.
• Supports exporting diagrams to LaTeX via tikz-cd.
• User-friendly interface for diagram creation and editing.

7. Envisics

Envisics provides AR-HUDs and automotive sensor systems for an enhanced driving experience. It uses dynamic holography to overlay driving information without distraction.

Target Demographic: Automotive industry, including car manufacturers and drivers.

Standout Features:

• Provides AR-HUDs for enhanced driving safety.
• Uses dynamic holography for non-distracting overlays.
• Seamlessly integrates with the vehicle’s existing systems.

8. Threedium

Threedium offers 3D/AR high-fidelity assets for e-commerce. It provides tools, APIs, and enterprise services for creating and managing 3D/AR assets, supporting real-time product customization in AR.

Target Demographic: E-commerce businesses, marketers, and developers.

Standout Features:

• Provides high-fidelity 3D displays for web and mobile.
• Offers a variety of tools for creating and managing 3D/AR assets.
• Supports real-time product customization in AR.

9. Move.ai

Move.ai is an AI-powered 3D motion capture app for animators, game developers, and filmmakers. It turns 2D video into 3D motion data and offers a simple interface for motion capture and animation creation.

Target Demographic: Animators, game developers, and filmmakers.

Standout Features:

• Uses AI for converting 2D video into 3D motion data.
• Simple and intuitive interface for motion capture.
• Supports real-time motion capture and animation creation.

10. Vuforia Engine

Vuforia Engine is an AR software solution providing advanced computer vision for creating unique AR experiences. It offers tracking for various objects and spaces, supporting large AR experiences and model targets.

Target Demographic: Developers and businesses creating AR applications.

Standout Features:

• Offers tracking for images, objects, and environments.
• Supports large AR experiences on scanned 3D models.
• Allows authoring AR experiences using pre-existing 3D models.

Also read, “How To Gamify Workout With AR And VR Fitness Apps?“

Conclusion

AR and VR technologies are evolving rapidly, impacting diverse sectors with transformative applications. The continued innovation in hardware, the integration of AI, and the exploration of the metaverse suggest a promising future for immersive technologies. As these trends unfold, businesses and consumers alike can anticipate more seamless and engaging experiences.

Looking to Make an AR/VR App?

If you are intrigued by the dynamic world of AR and VR and seek expert assistance in turning your ideas into reality, IdeaUsher is here to help. From mobile app to web app development, our team of skilled professionals is well-versed in the latest trends and technologies. Let us be your partner in crafting cutting-edge solutions that leverage the power of Augmented and Virtual Reality for your business.

FAQs

Q1. How is Extended Reality (XR) different from traditional Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)?

A1: Extended Reality (XR) combines Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and mixed reality, offering a more immersive experience by seamlessly blending the digital and physical worlds. Unlike traditional AR and VR, XR encompasses a spectrum of experiences, ranging from fully immersive virtual environments to enhanced real-world interactions. Understanding these differences is crucial for grasping the versatility and transformative potential of XR in diverse industries.

Q2. What industries are currently benefiting the most from AR and VR integration?

A2: Industries such as healthcare, education, and retail are reaping substantial benefits from the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). In healthcare, AR assists in surgery planning and medical training, while VR enhances therapeutic interventions. In education, AR and VR facilitate interactive learning experiences, and in retail, they offer virtual try-on experiences and immersive product presentations. Exploring specific use cases within these sectors reveals the practical applications and positive impacts on efficiency and user engagement.

Q3. How are AI-driven advancements enhancing the user experience in AR and VR?

A3: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the user experience in Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) through advancements in gesture recognition and spatial computing. AI algorithms enable more intuitive interactions by accurately interpreting user gestures and movements. Additionally, spatial computing, powered by AI, enhances the understanding of the user’s environment, allowing for more realistic and responsive AR and VR experiences. These AI-driven enhancements contribute to creating more user-friendly, immersive, and engaging virtual worlds.

Q4. What are the potential implications of the metaverse on social interactions and collaborative virtual environments?

A4: The ongoing exploration of the metaverse holds significant implications for social interactions and collaborative virtual environments. As a shared, immersive digital space, the metaverse could revolutionize the way individuals interact, collaborate, and socialize online. It has the potential to redefine virtual presence, enabling more authentic and interconnected experiences. The metaverse may shape the future of work, education, and entertainment, fostering a new era of digital collaboration and social engagement. Exploring these potential implications provides insights into the transformative power of the metaverse on our digital interactions and shared virtual spaces.