Recently, Apple announced the upcoming release of its Vision Pro glasses to the general public, scheduled for 2024. These glasses use a combination of technologies that have seen significant growth in recent years, one of them being augmented reality (AR). In this post, I want to introduce what augmented reality is and how it could benefit the average worker in the future.
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital images, sounds, and other elements onto the user’s physical environment in real-time, creating an interactive experience that enhances the perception of the real world.
Unlike virtual reality, which immerses the user in a completely digital environment, AR maintains contact with the physical world, offering numerous applications both in personal and professional settings.
Benefits for the Future of Work
AR has the potential to revolutionize several industries. One of the fields most likely to benefit is education and professional training. Through AR, employees can receive training in simulated yet realistic environments, allowing them to practice technical skills without real-world risks. For instance, surgeons can train using complex medical procedures with holograms and real-time guides before performing operations.
Another field that could be transformed is manufacturing and industrial maintenance. Workers could receive step-by-step instructions through AR glasses or devices while performing complicated technical tasks, reducing errors and increasing productivity. Companies like Boeing are already using this technology to guide employees in installing complex systems, resulting in significant improvements in accuracy and efficiency.
In addition, in creative sectors such as design and architecture, AR allows professionals to visualize 3D projects before construction, facilitating decision-making and improving team collaboration.
Challenges and Potential Issues
Despite its benefits, implementing AR is not without challenges. In terms of hardware, current glasses and devices can be costly and bulky, limiting their widespread adoption. Although the technology is advancing, improvements are needed in comfort, durability, and battery life to make these devices more accessible and practical for everyday use.
The integration of AR also raises concerns about social behavior. Constant interaction with digital elements could lead to distractions, negatively impacting employee focus in certain work environments. Additionally, there is a risk that people may become disconnected from the real world if they rely too heavily on AR, affecting human interactions and face-to-face collaboration.
AR’s implementation also faces challenges regarding technological infrastructure, as it requires fast and powerful networks to process and transmit the vast amount of data AR applications handle. This could be an obstacle in areas with limited or insufficient internet connections.
Ultimately, augmented reality promises to be a powerful tool for the future of work, enhancing training, productivity, and creativity across various sectors. However, its success will depend on overcoming technological and social challenges to ensure that its adoption is not only effective but also safe and balanced.