How augmented reality is changing the way we work

Business Insider

Augmented and virtual reality technology is still in the very early stages of development, but it's already rapidly changing how we do business and innovate. Following is a transcript of the video.

Augmented and virtual reality are still in the very early stages of development, but they're already rapidly changing some industries. Here's how.

NASA has a massive virtual reality lab it uses to train astronauts. The lab teaches astronauts how to walk in space, which used to be almost impossible to teach, as astronauts didn't really know what to expect if they hadn't done it before.

NASA is also using Microsoft's HoloLens to "travel" to Mars. They hope to be able to use the technology to control future rovers and virtually explore the land around the rovers. 

Cirque du Soleil has also been using Microsoft's HoloLens. The Canadian-based circus empire recently showed off how it has used the technology to design its sets and stages. The technology even lets them see how the show will look by using holographic performers.

Architecture firms like Trimble are using the technology to create holograms of their projects, which allows them to quickly assess changes and improvements to various projects. 

There's also Altoura - a commercial real estate virtual reality app. It allows potential buyers and renters to transport themselves into the space they are considering, enabling them to see how it might look once occupied.

There's also the Lowe's Holoroom. Available at select stores, it allows customers to see how products may come together in a room. Allowing them to see how a kitchen, bedroom, or any other project might look - before a single dollar is spent.

While development of these technologies is still in its infancy, it's encouraging to see so many companies and organizations already adapting various forms of enhanced reality.

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