What Does It Take To Be an AR (Augmented Reality) Developer?

Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive experience of a real-world environment in which real-world objects are "augmented" by computer-generated perceptual information, sometimes across multiple sensory modalities such as visual, auditory, haptic, somatosensory, and olfactory. The superimposed sensed data is flawlessly interwoven with the material realm, creating the impression that it is an interactive aspect of the real world. Augmented reality alters one's continual appearance of a real-world situation in this situation, whereas virtual reality replaces the user's real-world environment entirely with a simulated one. Augmented reality is related to two largely interchangeable terms: mixed reality and computer-mediated reality.

How is AR different from VR?

Before we begin, we must understand the difference between virtual and augmented reality. Most people confuse the two names and use them interchangeably, but they are not interchangeable. A VR developer creates entirely new digital settings that users can view using a device such as the Oculus headset, whereas an AR developer uses mobile apps to create a layer of digital experience in our reality, such as Pokemon Go, a game that employs this technology.

Video games are just one industry that uses AR/VR technology. This technology is also being used by museums to provide unique visitor experiences. One of the most common uses of AR is to provide information about art items when users scan them with their cameras.

How to Be an AR Developer?

Following are the steps that you must follow to become a perfect Augmented Reality Developer.

Knowledge of programming languages, 3D world, UX/UI programming, linear algebra, and geometry will be advantageous for the job.

Let's go over the steps you need to take to pursue this career.

1) Choose your Programming Language

Unreal and Unity are the two most popular platforms for creating AR and VR experiences. It enables you to build a virtual world in a 3D environment.

According to the State of the Developer Nation, the two main coding languages you should be using are C++ and C#. In addition, you should have some JavaScript knowledge.

Control logic, loops, and OOP principles are important concepts to understand.

2) Acquire Skills

You have two options when it comes to studying and earning a degree.

The first option is to enroll in universities that provide these classes and degrees. The University of the Arts London is one of the most well-known examples. According to a VR/AR Association report, up to 40 universities in the United States offer AR bachelor's degrees. The courses will concentrate on advanced content and complex applications, reflecting the technology's complexity.

The second, simpler, and faster option is to attend a VR/AR technology boot camp. The advantages of these boot camps include quick learning and lots of practice. They will assist you in learning Unreal or Unity apps in a matter of months rather than years.

However, unlike in college, these boot camps will not delve into the same scientific theories. The reason for this is that boot camps do not follow traditional educational methods and instead emphasize doing and practicing. You can use this to find some suitable AR/VR jobs. However, to advance in your career, you should cultivate more professional theory.

3) Work on Projects

You'll need a meticulous portfolio of AR projects you've completed, just like in any other tech industry. A well-prepared resume will make a favorable impression on the employer.

A strong portfolio will help you advance in your career, so get started now. You can begin working on projects that will supplement and enrich your portfolio.

This path will always be available to professional AR/VR engineers.

4) Apply for Jobs

After you've completed the necessary education, developed your hands-on skills, and prepared your resume, it's time to shine.

Employers will see your potential if you have a well-thought-out portfolio of projects.

Relationships and connections with industry professionals are also important factors in determining your future employment. To impress the experts, join the forums and make friends with them.

Don't forget to highlight your accomplishments to help you land better jobs at reputable companies.

These businesses will usually have stringent testing and interviewing procedures in place. Before applying to any organization, make sure you are well prepared.

In What Industries Are AR Engineers Needed?

After learning about the process and skills needed to become an AR developer, you may be curious about the areas in which it is applicable.

Many of these technologies are currently being used in these markets.

1) Travel

One of the most common applications of AR technology in the travel industry is Google Maps' live view. It allows you to track routes more easily and accurately.

AR is also a technology that is frequently used by museums, restaurants, and hotels to deliver customer experiences.

VR, on the other hand, enables tourism businesses to provide customers with virtual tours of various destinations. It is also a novel and unforgettable travel experience in recent years.

2) Education

Ed-tech is one of the most recent educational trends. This method was gradually adopted by students and parents alike.

These technologies provide students with theoretical facilities and virtual learning tours. In this day and age, technology will aid in the continuation of education regardless of distance.

3) Training

Jaguar Land Rover collaborated with RE'FLECT and Bosch to develop an augmented reality-enhanced training app for their employees. This app is designed to provide training to new technicians without requiring them to tamper with vehicle dashboards. A mechanic can use the app to view all the hidden items behind the panel by simply using a touchscreen on the dashboard. The mechanic can use this screen to determine the exact location of all components and interact with them. This application generates all of the connections and wiring diagrams required for instructors to provide training on a physical vehicle without dismantling and reassembling it. Jaguar Land Rover's use of augmented reality has enabled visual knowledge transfer, which not only aids in the training of new technicians but also helps to keep training costs low.

4) Gaming

Gaming is one of the industries that has made the most use of AR and VR technologies and theories.

Pokemon Go, one of the most popular games that have sparked a massive craze in the community, combines a VR engine and technology.

Because AR and VR are on their priority list, the company's primary focus is on improving the overall gamer experience.

5) Healthcare

Medical and pharmaceutical companies must have an AR/VR developer on staff.

These tools will come in handy when they need to guide students, perform complex surgery, or research new diseases.

Final Thoughts

The technology is still in its early stages. It has many limitations, it is costly, and the standards and best practices are still developing. However, it has enormous potential, and now is an excellent time to get started, particularly given that the majority of professional AR/VR developers have less than two years of experience.

Furthermore, some of the skills you'll learn (such as C#) can be applied to other areas of software development or game development if you decide AR/VR isn't for you, making it a low-risk/high-reward opportunity.