Augmented reality (AR) also known as mixed reality is a technology that overlays computer generated graphics onto the real world through a device such as a smartphone, head-mounted display, or smart glasses. For more information visit our Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) guide.
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AR development tools
| Tool | Useful features and limitations | UQ Library training | Online training guides and courses | Tool cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARCore | ARCore is Google's augmented reality SDK that can be used to build AR applications on Android, iOS, Unity, and Web. | No | ARCore documentation |  |
| RealityKit | Apple RealityKit provides 3D simulation and rendering capabilities to create 3D or AR apps for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS and visionOS. | No | RealityKit documentation | |
| Unity | Unity is a cross-platform game engine with capability to create AR applications. | No | Unity Learn - AR |  |
| Adobe Aero | Adobe Aero is a no-code AR authoring and viewing platform that allows you to create, share and view AR experiences. | No | Learn Aero | |
AR applications
| Tool | Useful features and limitations | UQ Library training | Online training guides and courses | Tool cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ShapesXR | ShapesXR is a collaborative design and prototyping tool for spatial creation. You can join sessions from the web or supported headsets. | No | ShapesXR 2.0 Tutorial 1: Learn the Basics (YouTube 6m) | |
| SketchAR | SketchAR is an AR drawing app that can help you improve your drawing skills and create art. You can use your phone or supported headsets. | No | SketchAR Drawing Tutorials | |
| Civilisations AR | Civilisations AR is an app you can use to look at artefacts from around the world. It makes objects located in museums around the world accessible anywhere. | No | BBC Civilisations AR | Making of | Nexus Studios (YouTube 1m05s) | |
| JigSpace | Jigspace allows you to create and view 3D AR presentations. | No | Jigspace tutorials | |
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Free tools are completely free to use with all features.
Freemium tools include basic functionality for free. Additional features may need to be paid for.
Open source tools are developed in a collaborative manner and can be used, modified or shared openly. This software can be used for free and often includes a lot of support documentation.
Paid tools can only be used after purchasing, and agreeing to, a product licence.
