What Is AR in Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Augmented Reality (AR) has been a buzzword in the technology industry for quite some time now. With the advancements in technology, AR has become a game-changer in various industries, including tourism. In this article, we will explore what AR is and how it’s transforming the tourism industry.

What is AR?

AR is a technology that superimposes digital information on top of the real world. It enhances our perception of reality by adding computer-generated sensory inputs such as sound, video, graphics and GPS data to our real-world view. Unlike virtual reality (VR), which creates a completely artificial environment, AR overlays digital information onto the user’s physical environment.

How Does AR Work?

AR works through the use of devices such as smartphones, tablets or smart glasses that have an AR app installed. These apps use the device’s camera and sensors to recognize physical objects or locations and then overlay digital information on them.

AR in Tourism

The tourism industry has always been keen on adopting new technologies to enhance its offerings. With AR, tourists can experience destinations like never before. Here are some ways AR is being used in tourism:

Virtual Tours

AR enables tourists to take virtual tours of destinations without leaving their homes. They can explore tourist hotspots using their smartphones or tablets by pointing their device at a location and seeing additional information like historical facts or images overlaid onto the screen.

Navigation

Getting lost in an unknown place can be frustrating for tourists. With AR-enabled navigation, tourists can get directions overlaid onto their view of the surroundings, making it easier for them to find their way around.

Museums and Exhibitions

Museums and exhibitions are utilizing AR to provide visitors with an immersive experience that enhances learning. Visitors can use their smartphones or AR-enabled devices to scan exhibits and see additional information, animations or videos about the artifacts.

Language Translation

Travelling to a foreign country can be daunting, especially if you don’t speak the language. AR apps can translate signs, menus and other written content in real-time, making it easier for tourists to communicate with locals and navigate their surroundings.

Conclusion

AR is transforming the way we experience tourism. It’s enabling tourists to explore destinations in new ways while enhancing their learning experience. As the technology advances, we can expect to see more innovative ways that AR will change the tourism industry.