Mass Adoption of Augmented Reality: Feasibility, Prospects, Implications, and Alternatives

Augmented reality as a concept and technology has been in existence for decades, but has so far remained the preserve of select groups of users for specific, limited purposes. With the I.T. giant Google poised to release an augmented-reality-dedicated device in 2014, applications of A.R. as seen in science fiction shows such as the Terminator are now on the verge of being popularized. This work examines the question of whether A.R. is in fact ready for mass adoption by users. . . . It does so by first investigating the technologies involved, particularly the availability of A.R. ready devices and connectivity standards. Next, it scrutinizes the current and potential availability of the data content for use in A.R. applications, also touching on the relevant legal and ethical issues. It speculates on the likelihood of A.R. benefitting the majority of the populace rather than reinforcing the “digital gap.” Practical or theoretical solutions are suggested in cases where obstacles and difficulties are identified. . . . The Paper finds that the most common expectation of A.R. is at present not achievable, and proceeds to examine more plausible immediate alternatives as well as the forthcoming A.R. projects and initiatives. It is concluded that the success of A.R. on a wide scale is in a very large part contingent upon the success of Google’s Project Glass. If its quality fails to garner sufficient support and imagination of users, partners, and competitors, augmented reality may well never catch on.