Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that lets users see computer generated images in their field of vision, which creates a composite view of the world. The technology scans the physical world, and then enhances it with computer-generated visuals, which can provide relevant information about objects in the real world.
At the moment, augmented reality is mostly accessed through mobile devices, which blend digital content with the physical world.
The potential of AR is massive, especially in Japan, which accounted for 33% of the total mobile AR market in 2014. The global market in growing at a 104.8% percent CAGR from 2014-2019, and is expected to become a major technology is sectors as broad as marketing, healthcare and manufacturing over the projected period.
But why is Japan specifically seeing such intense growth of mobile AR technology? Technavio analysts have narrowed down some of the key factors that are leading to such strong projections for the Japanese market.
Popularity of new technology in Japan
Japan has a history of being the first to adopt any new technology. The country has a strong technology infrastructure and advanced technological standards across industries, and this widespread technophilia has created a perfect environment for the spread of mobile AR technology.
Increased adoption in advertising sector
Several advertisers are experimenting with augmented reality to allow consumers to interact even more with their brands. This new breed of ad is immersive and novel, and more than capable of providing the much sought after hype that every advertiser looks for.
Workflow automation
Healthcare, automotive, defense, oil and gas, and mining are just some of the sectors that are investing heavily in workflow automation in order to reduce human errors. AR could play a major role in processes like parts analysis and simulation, staff support, layout and construction, and planning or supervising.
SLAM technology
SLAM or simultaneous localization and mapping is a popular autonomous mapping and navigation technique in mobile robotics. Originally used as eyes for NASA robots, SLAM is a technology used for creating maps of unknown environments and positioning devices with extreme accuracy within these environments.
SLAM is the ideal technology for AR as it gives a markerless experience compared to marker-based AR, where images need to be printed out.
