When looking at methods of implementing AR and UX technologies, we have been tasked to create a simple QR code through Zapworks that when scanned will create a 3D image at its position. We started by opening a new 3D core template in the Unity Hub and changing the build environment of the scene to WebGL.
Creating this scene through Unity does allow us to display the image in full 3D with a 2D base image. The user experience from this type of media definitely comes in the form of having the image be physically in front of you as opposed to surrounding the user and blocking out space from their real surroundings. Keeping this in mind does allow us to look at some clear advantages of AR technology as opposed to something more VR for certain situations, such as:
- Health & Safety – User experience is everything with immersive technology, so if the user is at risk of becoming ill or getting injured it becomes a very deterring factor for participation
- Positioning – As opposed to having the user’s vision replaced completely, having these QR codes situated in certain places can make its uses extremely beneficial for tasks such as: giving directions to non native speakers in cities, hands-on training in certain professions etc.
- Everyday use – Google Glasses are a great example of how this AR technology can be used to make life more indulging for the user, having the overlays always available rather than having to hold up a manual overlay like a screen.
With these advantages in mind, should I want to base a project on these types of reality technologies I would aim to make something less game based and more training based. The general idea is that I would aim to create a pop out AR image or information box about something like an instrument or an appliance, and help the user understand more in depth details about what they are looking at. For example, if the use scans the code of an engine, it would bring up a pop up with: the make & model alongside other important figures.
There are disadvantages to AR technology however, mainly in that even though the technology is portable, it would require an overlay for the user to experience it through. This would be through means of either a tablet, phone screen or any other portable digital device like google glasses etc.