Augmented Reality App Research Articles

Augmented reality experiences: Consumer‐centered augmented reality framework and research agenda

AbstractSince the launch of Pokémon Go, augmented reality (AR) has been one of the main research areas within new technologies. Integrating digital elements into the physical world presents exceptional opportunities for different sectors, enabling enhanced interactions and experiences. This study conducts a systematic review of AR literature, highlighting the main theories, theoretical frameworks, and research methodologies employed. It also classifies the main types of AR devices and the diverse contexts in which they are applied. Through a comprehensive thematic analysis, four principal areas of current research are identified: (1) media characteristics and consumer outcomes, (2) psychological influential factors and outcomes, (3) AR app features and technology adoption, and (4) recommendations for implementation in the industry and advantages. Furthermore, the study provides key insights and introduces the consumer‐centered AR framework. The article concludes by proposing a future research agenda, highlighting prospective studies that can contribute from the perspective of the content, context, device, and consumer, as well as avenues for future research from a methodological perspective.

Increasing citizen engagement in sustainable architecture using augmented reality: A pilot study

Sustainability processes aim to include citizens as it is their behaviour and use of the cities that will play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable communities. Yet, active participation of citizens can be challenging, mostly due to lack of information about the topic. Augmented Reality (AR) has been identified as a useful tool to provide information to people, yet it is unclear whether its use can contribute to achieve citizen engagement in sustainability. The present study explores whether the use of AR can increase people's understanding of sustainable architecture topics, thus increasing their interest and engagement. An experimental pilot study was designed, using a self-developed AR application (app). The AR app presented information on how different façade materials of a Sports Hall building in Oslo might impact the CO2-emissions. Two aspects were evaluated in the study: the technical aspect (related to the use of the AR tool), and the sustainability aspects (related to the users' engagement in sustainable architecture). Both aspects were evaluated via subjective assessments (i.e. how user-friendly, useful, realistic and satisfactory the app is evaluated for the technical aspects, and how users understand, get interested and engaged in sustainability aspects). In addition, possible effects of reported gender and professional background (experts vs non-experts) on the subjective evaluations were evaluated. The pilot study included 27 participants, who evaluated the AR tool using a Likert-scale to rate both the technical and the sustainability aspects. The statistical results showed that there were no significant differences between males and females or between experts and non-experts in the technical evaluation of the AR tool nor the evaluation of environmental interest. The results also showed positive correlations between the positive technical experience of the AR tool with the increment of understanding, engagement and interest of the users in sustainability. The findings show advancement in understanding the potential of the use of AR as a practical tool for increasing users' interest and engaging them into the creation of more sustainable communities.

Multi-agent system-based framework for an intelligent management of competency building

To measure the effectiveness of learning activities, intensive research works have focused on the process of competency building through the identification of learning stages as well as the setup of related key performance indictors to measure the attainment of specific learning objectives. To organize the learning activities as per the background and skills of each learner, individual learning styles have been identified and measured by several researchers. Despite their importance in personalizing the learning activities, these styles are difficult to implement for large groups of learners. They have also been rarely correlated with each specific learning stage. New approaches are, therefore, needed to intelligently coordinate all the learning activities while self-adapting to the ongoing progress of learning as well as to the specific requirements and backgrounds of learners. To address these issues, we propose in this paper a new framework for an intelligent management of the competency building process during learning. Our framework is based on a recursive spiral Assess-Predict-Oversee-Transit model that is orchestrated by a multi-agent system. This system is particularly responsible of enabling smart transitions between learning stages. It is also responsible of assessing and predicting the process of competency building of the learner and, then, making the right decisions about the learning progress, accordingly. Results of our solution were demonstrated via an Augmented Reality app that we created using the Unity3D engine to train learners on Air Conditioner maintenance.

The influence of information technologies on creative and critical thinking of students / La influencia de las tecnologías de la información en el pensamiento crítico y creativo de los estudiantes

Innovative information technology is developing rapidly and is penetrating many areas of life, including education. The paper measures the impact of innovative information technology, using augmented reality (AR) as an example, on the development of creativity and critical thinking among students. The study was conducted among 180 students from Tonghua Normal University in China. The research design: a pre-test and post-test experiment with a control group. The following research findings were obtained: academic knowledge of the experimental group was higher (15.73) than that of the control group (12.13). ARLE model improved critical thinking (8.77 in AR group, 7.60 in the traditional group) and creativity (593 in AR group, 570 in the traditional group). The resulting data demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed model of learning with the augmented reality technology. The research findings have practical implications. For example, they may be used to create new augmented reality apps for other disciplines and majors. The study presents recommendations on the development of creative and critical thinking, which teachers of various disciplines can apply in practice. The impact of other digital tools in education needs to be carefully studied to determine their effectiveness.

How perceived value of augmented reality shopping drives psychological ownership

PurposeThis study proposes a framework that demonstrates how the perceived value of augmented reality (AR) shopping influences the formation of psychological ownership of product and technology. The mediating role of flow experience and the moderating role of perceived control are identified.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey study recruiting 480 participants who experienced AR shopping was conducted to test the hypotheses.FindingsFunctional value is negatively related to psychological ownership of product and technology whereas emotional value shows opposite effects. Flow experience mediates the relationships between functional/emotional value and psychological ownership of product and technology. Perceived control moderates the relationship between emotional value and flow experience, as well as the relationship between functional/emotional value and psychological ownership of product and technology.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest the importance of AR’s functional and emotional values in developing psychological ownership of product and technology. To mitigate the negative effect of functional value, AR designers should focus on creating emotionally engaging apps that induce a flow experience, thereby enhancing psychological ownership. Furthermore, AR apps should be designed to empower users with a sense of control in the AR experience.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the AR and psychological ownership literature. It introduces a model that can explain both the formation of psychological ownership of product and psychological ownership of technology, thereby expanding the current understanding. By adding perceived values as antecedents of psychological ownership, it enriches the psychological ownership literature. Moreover, it enhances the flow experience literature by demonstrating the role of flow experience in the formation of psychological ownership of product and technology.

Open LEARN: Open access linear accelerator education and augmented reality Navigator

PurposeTo create an open-access Linear Accelerator Education and Augmented Reality Navigator (Open LEARN) via 3D printable objects and interactive augmented reality assets. MethodsThis study describes an augmented reality linear accelerator (linac) model accessible through a QR code and a smartphone to address the challenges of medical physics and radiation oncology trainees in low-to-middle-income countries. ResultsMajor components of a generic linear accelerator are modeled as individual objects. These objects can be 3D printed for hands-on learning and used as interactive 3D assets within the augmented reality app. In the AR app, descriptions are displayed to navigate the components spatially and textually. Items modeled include the treatment couch, klystron, circulator, RF waveguides, electron gun, waveguide, beam steering assemblies, target, collimators, multi-leaf collimators, and imaging systems. The linear accelerator is rendered at nearly 100% of its actual size, allowing users to change magnification and view objects from different angles. ConclusionsThe augmented reality linear accelerators and 3D-printed objects make these complex machines easily accessible with smartphones and 3D-printing technologies, facilitating education and training through physical and virtual interaction.

Influence of Technology Readiness in the Adoption of Augmented Reality Applications in Retailing

Forget crowded aisles and unending product comparisons. Imagine yourself trying on clothes virtually, visualizing furniture in your living room before making a purchase, or even discovering information about products that are hidden behind interactive labels. Augmented reality (AR) promises to revolutionize the shopping experience, but widespread adoption depends on understanding user motivations. This study explores what motivates consumers to interact with this emerging technology to determine the “why” behind AR retail adoption. Although AR has the potential to transform many industries, consumer technology readiness is a critical factor that will determine how widely adopted AR becomes. This research investigates how a person’s ability, willingness, and confidence in their ability to use technology serves as a vital link between the potential for innovation and its practical implementation. The study investigates the effects of performance expectancy, price, effort expectancy, hedonic motivation, and technological readiness on adoption behavior using a partial least squares-structural equation modeling analysis of data from 306 online survey respondents. The results show that price and performance expectancy are significant drivers, but hedonic motivation and effort expectancy have no impact on adoption behavior. Notably, one factor that strongly influences the adoption of AR apps is technological readiness. These findings provide retailers with insightful advice, telling them to prioritize app value, affordability, and user-friendly design while also realizing how crucial it is to accommodate different degrees of technological comfort. Retailers can effectively use AR technology to improve customer engagement and accelerate adoption in the retail space by knowing these key drivers.

Design, development and testing of BodoRao—A markerless augmented reality application for endangered language in primary education

AbstractBackgroundAugmented reality can provide a 3D virtual experience, widely used in modern education. However, the impact of these applications on the underdeveloped tribal community has yet to be investigated. To our knowledge, no markerless augmented reality application has been developed especially for learning the language of the Bodo tribe. Therefore, we have developed a markerless augmented reality application—BodoRao to teach the alphabet and numerals of the Bodo tribal language.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the usability and efficacy of the BodoRao application. To investigate how augmented reality apps affect students' academic achievement in language acquisition. Also, assess the students' attitude towards using an augmented reality application.MethodA mixed‐method approach that combined quantitative and qualitative methods was used to gather the data. A total of 80 students drawn from two user groups: native speakers and non‐native speakers were evaluated, to determine if the BodoRao application can benefit a variety of speakers. Furthermore, from each of the user groups, experimental and control groups were formed. The experimental group used an augmented reality application to learn while the control group studied using a traditional textbook. Eight teachers were also interviewed to get their opinions on the BodoRao application.Results and ConclusionThe findings found a significant difference in the achievement test results between the experimental and control groups for both native and non‐native users. Students' positive attitudes toward the application were also observed, as represented by their high application satisfaction, low anxiety and readiness for use. Additionally, it was observed that there was a positive and significant correlation between the academic achievements and attitudes of native and non‐native students in the experimental group.

Development Augmented Reality of CNC Lathe G-Code Programming

In the realm of education, the most recent novel methods, such as augmented reality (AR), are becoming increasingly popular since students can apply the learning circumstances seen in virtual form to the real-world environment. The study's goal is to create an AR application for G code programming on CNC Lathe machines for the Machining course at Batu Pahat Vocational College. The ADDIE model was employed as the process model in this development. The phases of this paradigm are as follows: analysis, design, development, implementation, and assessment. SolidWorks, Blender, and Blippar are used to create AR apps. Product functionality was evaluated by five experts in the fields of machining and multimedia. The data is collected using an expert confirmation form and analysed using the frequency of acceptance and expert feedback. The study's findings suggest that the built application achieved its purpose. Overall, this AR application for G code programming was created with vocational college students in mind and is suited for use as a supplementary reference that can be used in theoretical or practical lessons.

Augmented reality for chemistry education to promote the use of chemical terminology in teacher training.

Chemistry as a whole is divided into three levels. The macroscopic level describes real, observable phenomena of the material world. The submicroscopic level focuses on particles. The representative level includes pictorial and symbolic representations to visualize substance in its nature. Students often have problems separating these levels and conceptually transfer each of the three levels to the other. Therefore, teachers need to use chemical terminology correctly when teaching the substance-particle concept. Augmented Reality (AR) connects real and virtual world. The observer physically moves in a real environment that integrates virtual elements. The AR technology has great potential for learning in the subject chemistry, especially when it comes to making the "invisible" visible and illustrating scientific phenomena at particle level. The simultaneous presentation should avoid split-attention and offers new possibilities to interactively deal with (M)ER. The question arises whether AR has a positive effect on the use of technical language and the associated understanding of the concept of dealing with (M)ER at the substance and particle levels. With an AR app on the tablet and the AR glasses, the chemical processes of a real experiment are represented by AR visualizations. Therefore, the AR app was piloted. This study captured the chemistry handling with (M)ER of chemistry teachers (N = 30) using a pre-post survey. The participating preservice teachers are described below. Each test includes five tasks elaborated by thinking aloud. The thinking-aloud protocols to acquire the use of the chemical terminology are evaluated in MAXQDA.

How people with brain injury run and evaluate a SLAM-based smartphone augmented reality application to assess object-location memory.

Augmented reality (AR) technology allows virtual objects to be superimposed on the real-world environment, offering significant potential for improving cognitive assessments and rehabilitation processes in the field of visuospatial learning. This study examines how patients with acquired brain injury (ABI) evaluate the functions and usability of a SLAM-based smartphone AR app to assess object-location skills. Ten ABI patients performed a task for the spatial recall of four objects using an AR app. The data collected from 10 healthy participants provided reference values for the best performance. Their perceptions of the AR app/technology and its usability were investigated. The results indicate lower effectiveness in solving the task in the patient group, as the time they needed to complete it was related to their level of impairment. The patients showed lower, yet positive, scores in factors related to app usability and acceptance (e.g., mental effort and satisfaction, respectively). There were more patients reported on entertainment as a positive aspect of the app. Patients' perceived enjoyment was related to concentration and calm, whereas usability was associated with perceived competence, expertise, and a lower level of physical effort. For patients, the sensory aspects of the objects were related to their presence, while for healthy participants, they were related to enjoyment and required effort. The results show that AR seems to be a promising tool to assess spatial orientation in the target patient population.

Unraveling the factors that influence connectedness and relationship performance with augmented reality apps

PurposeAugmented reality (AR) technology presents novel opportunities for marketers to captivate consumers, enhancing their experiences with brands. Although recent research underscores consumers' favorable responses to AR within retail contexts, there remains a paucity of studies examining the specific factors motivating these responses, i.e. reasons for, such as the appeal of entertainment, trendiness, customization, interaction and augmentation quality. Conversely, reasons against AR acceptance, such as perceived lack of realism, skepticism or perceived deception, are also underexplored.Design/methodology/approachGuided by the behavioral reasoning theory, the current study delves into consumers' personal values and beliefs, their reasons for and reasons against using AR apps and how these factors influence their engagement and relationship performance with AR apps. The data were collected from 343 AR app users to test the developed theoretical framework.FindingsResults reveal that while perceived value compatibility does not influence reasons for using AR apps, it negatively influences reasons against using AR apps and positively influences connectedness to AR apps. Interestingly, openness to change does not significantly influence users’ connection to AR apps, and no association was found between reasons-against and connectedness to AR apps and relationship performance. However, a positive relationship was observed between users’ connectedness to AR apps and their relationship performance.Originality/valueBy offering these insights, this study contributes to a foundational understanding of the behavioral intricacies and dynamic interaction patterns within the rapidly emerging AR user base.

The role of augmented reality app attributes and customer-based brand equity on consumer behavioral responses: an S-O-R framework perspective

PurposeAugmented reality (AR) provides consumers with added value by allowing them to experience products via mobile devices. An increasing number of brands have adopted AR apps, but little is known about how consumers respond to AR app attributes or what motivates them to use luxury brand AR apps. To fill this gap, this study aims to use the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) model to examine how AR app attributes (i.e. interactivity and virtuality) and customer-based brand equity (CBBE) (i.e. brand awareness and brand image) of luxury brands affect consumers’ behavioral intention to share about the app and use it for future purchases.Design/methodology/approachParticipants were recruited using a quantitative online survey (n = 214) and asked to use the Gucci mobile AR app before completing the survey. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data. All measures were adapted from existing literature.FindingsFindings indicate that AR app attributes lead to positive consumer experience, in turn, creating behavioral intention, while CBBE partially leads to positive consumer perceptions. Post hoc analysis confirms that consumers’ perceived values mediate the relationship between AR app attributes and consumers’ attitudes toward a luxury brand AR app.Originality/valueTheoretically, this study expands the application of the S-O-R model along with brand equity to AR adoption and luxury retail by demonstrating the intricate mechanism of how AR app attributes and CBBE promote consumers’ behavioral intentions toward luxury brand AR apps. Practitioners may create more interactive and immersive virtual product demonstrations and focus on establishing the overall brand image.

Knowledge and Utilization of Digital Applications for Effective Service Delivery in Academic Libraries in South-South Universities, Nigeria

This study investigated knowledge and utilization of digital applications for effective service delivery in academic libraries in South-South universities, Nigeria. 3 research questions and 3 hypotheses were raised. The population included 181 selected Librarians in the twelve (12) selected universities in South-South, Nigeria as a case study. A sample size of 119 Librarians representing 66% of the population served as respondents. Convenience sampling technique was used for the study. A 25-item questionnaire was used for data collection. Cronbach alpha statistics was used to obtain 0.73 reliability. Mean/standard deviation were used for research questions and z-test statistics was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The result amongst others revealed that, Librarian in both federal and state universities are knowledgeable about Library Catalogue Apps, Library Card and Account Management Apps, Digital Preservation and Archives Apps and others. Meanwhile, Librarians in both federal and state universities poorly utilize Digital Citation Management Apps, Digital Library Card and Account Management Apps and Digital Preservation and Archives Apps. The analysis also shows that, Librarians do not utilize Digital Augmented and Virtual Reality Apps, Digital Library Events and Notifications Apps, Reading and E-Book Apps, Digital Study and Collaboration Apps and Quick Response (QR) Codes scanners. The challenges academic libraries face in promoting digital applications are inadequate skilled staff to operate digital libraries, difficulty in the enforcement of intellectual property rights, non-utilization of digital library Apps.

AI-Powered Augmented Reality App Satisfies My Beauty Needs and Want

Abstract Purpose: Online shopping is changing because of augmented reality technology. The study aimed to understand augmented reality’s impact on the consumer shopping experience in an online context and further understand how its information, service, and ease of use can impact its continuous intention. Design/Methodology/approach: This research is based on a sample of 348 from China and structural equation modeling using Smart-PLS. Findings: The study outcomes show that Chinese consumers are intrigued and feel engaged with the augmented reality makeup app. Most users have shown positive results towards different constructs, which shows the significance of this technology. Chinese consumers adopt such technologies because of their immersive power that enhances the real environment while shopping online for cosmetic products. Originality: Augmented reality is a disruptive technology that is changing the shopping experience. The current framework helps to understand consumer engagement with this technology and contributes to the AR literature and theory. The insights provide a strong base for future strategy development to integrate this technology in online and offline stores.

Co-created augmented reality app and its impact on the effectiveness of learning a foreign language and on cultural knowledge

This paper addresses the limited exploration of the impact of virtual and augmented reality on the learning process, particularly within the context of foreign language learning among young learners. Motivated by this research gap, the EULALIA, conducted from 2019 to 2023 (2019-1-IT02-KA203-063228), sought to evaluate the efficacy of integrating technology in language education. Specifically, the study investigates the influence of virtual and augmented reality on foreign language learning, examining its effects on subjectively assessed cultural knowledge, and workflow during classes, as perceived by educators. Involving 239 learners, the study employed a pre/post survey methodology, wherein participants provided feedback before and after working with the EULALIA application or traditional learning methods. The quantitative analysis of survey data was complemented by semi-structured interviews with participating teachers, providing additional insights. The results indicate a statistically significant increase in cultural knowledge among the group utilizing augmented reality. The findings suggest a positive impact on students’ learning progression, and workflow during classes. This research contributes valuable insights into the potential of integrating virtual and augmented reality in language education, offering a foundation for future pedagogical advancements.

Understanding mobile augmented reality apps in Pakistan: an extended mobile technology acceptance model

PurposeAugmented reality (AR) adoption has boomed globally in recent years. The prospective of AR to seamlessly integrate digital information into the actual environment has proven to be a challenge for academics and industry, as they endeavor to understand and predict the influence on users' perceptions, adoption intentions and usage. This study investigates the factors affecting consumers’ behavioral intention to adopt AR technology in shopping malls by offering the mobile technology acceptance model (MTAM).Design/methodology/approachThis conceptual framework is based on mobile self-efficacy, rewards, social influence and enjoyment of existing MTAM constructs. A self-administered questionnaire, constructed by measuring questions modified from previous research, elicited 311 usable responses from mobile respondents who had recently used AR technology in shopping malls. This analysis was performed using SmartPLS3.0.FindingsGrounded on the findings of the study, it was found that, aside from factors such as mobile usefulness, ease of use and social influence, the remaining independent variables had the most significant impact on adopting AR technologies. Considering the limitations of this study, the paper concludes by discussing the significant implications and insinuating avenues for future research.Originality/valueTo better investigate mobile AR app adoption in Pakistan’s shopping malls, the researchers modified the newly proposed MTAM model by incorporating mobile self-efficacy theory, social influence, rewards and perceived enjoyment. However, the extended model has not been extensively studied in previous research. This study is the first to examine the variables that affect an individual’s intention to accept mobile AR apps by using a novel extended MTAM.

User experience of an augmented reality heritage app: an experience economy model

ABSTRACT Technological advancements and evolving traveller expectations have transformed the landscape of tourism experiences. Augmented reality (AR) has emerged as a cutting-edge technology widely employed in various domains to enhance user experiences. However, despite its popularity, limited research has been conducted on the user experience of AR heritage apps within the context of the experience economy framework. Therefore, employing a qualitative research approach, this study examined the user experience of an AR heritage app named ‘City in Time’ in Hong Kong, utilising the experience economy framework encompassing education, esthetics, entertainment, and escapism. Furthermore, user satisfaction and behavioural intentions were assessed. The findings underscore the educational value of AR heritage apps and offer a novel interpretation of the value of esthetics, entertainment, and escapism. They suggest the need for refining AR heritage apps to deliver an enhanced destination experience for users. Additionally, the study highlights the potential of AR apps to enrich user experiences and underscores the necessity for future advancements in this field. Finally, this study encourages future exploration of the user experience in AR apps within the tourism industry.

Potential of Augmented Reality in the Library

Augmented reality (AR) applications are getting popular since they integrate the real world and the virtual world. This paper focusses on AR applications for public and scientific libraries. There exist some projects and sample implementations of AR apps specially designed for libraries, but they are seldom found in practice. To identify whether there is potential for AR apps to be applied in libraries, the results of a qualitative study that has been performed among librarians working in public and scientific libraries in Austria and experts in augmented reality are presented. Searching for media, navigating to the correct location and displaying ancillary information, like ratings, reviews, secondary media, links, etc., has the highest potential for users according to the experts. AR apps for maintaining the bookshelfs of a library provide real benefit for librarians and are awarded high potential as well. Guided tours through libraries using AR-based apps lightens the load of the librarians to introduce new users to the library. The feasibility of an AR app for a library is demonstrated by introducing a prototype that supports library users with additional information on media and the library itself.

Effect of augmented reality applications on attitude and behaviours of customers: cognitive and affective perspectives

PurposeUnderstanding how to retain users of augmented reality (AR) shopping apps and to motivate them to purchase is vital to the success of AR apps. This study assessed the chain effect of AR attributes on purchase intention and reuse intention through cognitive and affective factors.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected from Thai users of the IKEA Place app using an online survey. A link to the survey was posted on Thai furniture groups on social media platforms. The 439 responses were analysed using the partial least squares (PLS) approach.FindingsThe results revealed that all four AR attributes, namely interactivity, vividness, novelty and spatial presence, significantly influence perceived enjoyment, perceived diagnosticity and perceived value. Brand attitude, as a key driver of purchase intention, is influenced by perceived value. Attitude towards the app significantly affects reuse intention and is affected by affective and cognitive factors.Practical implicationsThe findings enable shopping app designers and marketers to successfully promote the brand, retain users and boost sales by effectively incorporating AR.Originality/valueThe study extends the literature on the impacts of AR apps on customer behaviours by including affective factors in addition to cognitive factors to explain why AR attributes influence customer attitudes and behaviours. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the serial causal paths from AR attributes to customer behaviours.