AI and AR: 2024 trends

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1. Generative AI Solutions and Multi-Sensory Technology

• Generative AI will continue to revolutionize content creation, enabling the synthesis of images, videos, and even interactive environments from textual descriptions. This technology will be particularly transformative in AR applications, where users can generate custom avatars or environments on the fly.
• Multi-sensory AI will not only simulate visual and auditory experiences but also haptic feedback and olfactory outputs. This could lead to applications such as virtual cooking classes where users can smell and feel the texture of ingredients, enhancing the learning experience.

2. Advancements in AR Hardware

• The miniaturization of AR hardware components will lead to more discreet and stylish AR glasses. These advancements will reduce the stigma associated with wearing AR devices in public, encouraging widespread adoption.
• Battery life and display resolution are two areas where significant improvements are expected. Longer battery life will enable all-day use, while higher resolution displays will make virtual objects indistinguishable from reality.

3. WebAR and Cross-Platform AR

• WebAR will see improvements in performance and compatibility, making AR experiences smoother and more realistic. This will be crucial for marketing campaigns and online retail, where instant access to AR can enhance consumer engagement.
• Cross-platform AR development tools will mature, allowing creators to build AR experiences once and deploy them across multiple platforms, reducing development time and costs.

4. AR in Retail and Live Shopping

• AR will become a staple in online and in-store shopping experiences. Virtual try-ons and 3D product visualizations will help reduce return rates and increase customer satisfaction.
• Live shopping will integrate AR to allow viewers to see products in 3D or in their own space, making remote shopping experiences more tangible and interactive.
• Augmented reality development for fashion brands

5. AR in Diverse Industries

• In healthcare, AR will assist in patient education, allowing them to visualize their conditions and treatments in 3D. This can lead to better understanding and adherence to treatment plans.
• In education, AR can bring textbooks to life, turning static diagrams into interactive 3D models, making learning more engaging and effective.

6. AR-Based Gaming

• AR gaming will expand to include more genres, such as puzzle games and educational titles. These games will use the real world as a canvas, providing unique gameplay experiences that are not possible with traditional video games.
• Social AR gaming will become more popular, with games designed to be played in groups, encouraging social interaction and physical activity.

7. Mobile AR Tools

• Mobile AR will benefit from the integration of AI, allowing for more intelligent and context-aware applications. For example, an AR navigation app could not only show you the way but also provide information about landmarks you pass by.
• Fitness apps will use AR to create immersive workout environments, making exercise more enjoyable and motivating users to stay active.

8. Wearables and AR Controllers

• Wearables will become more integrated with AR, providing additional input methods and contextual information. For example, a smart ring could be used to control AR interfaces with gestures.
• AR controllers will evolve to be more ergonomic and intuitive, allowing for precise interaction with virtual objects and enhancing the overall user experience.

 

AI Trends: Reality Check and More

 

1. More Realistic Expectations

• Businesses will focus on AI applications that offer tangible benefits, such as process automation and data analysis. This pragmatic approach will lead to more successful AI implementations and a clearer understanding of AI’s value proposition.
• The Deloitte report suggests that companies will increasingly leverage AI for customer service and personalization, driving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

2. Small(er) Language Models and Open Source Advancements

• The trend towards smaller, more efficient AI models will continue, as they require less computational power and can be deployed on a wider range of devices.
• Open-source AI projects will flourish, benefiting from the collective efforts of the global developer community. This will lead to more innovative and diverse AI applications.

3. GPU Shortages and Cloud Costs

• Strategies to mitigate GPU shortages will include the use of specialized AI processors and the optimization of existing models to run on less powerful hardware.
• Cloud providers will offer more competitive pricing and options for AI workloads, helping businesses manage costs while scaling their AI applications.

4. Customized Local Models and Data Pipelines

• Custom AI models will be trained on proprietary datasets, providing businesses with a competitive edge and ensuring data privacy.
• Robust data pipelines will be essential for feeding these models with high-quality data, enabling continuous learning and improvement.

5. More Powerful Virtual Agents

• Virtual agents will handle a wider range of tasks, from scheduling appointments to providing technical support. They will become an integral part of customer service teams.
• Advances in natural language processing will allow virtual agents to understand and respond to complex queries with greater accuracy.

6. Regulation, Copyright, and Ethical AI

• Governments will introduce regulations to ensure that AI systems are fair, transparent, and accountable. This will help build public trust in AI technologies.
• The creative industries will adapt to the rise of AI-generated content, with new licensing models and copyright frameworks that recognize the contributions of both humans and AI.

7. Shadow AI (and Corporate AI Policies)

• Companies will implement comprehensive AI governance frameworks to prevent unauthorized use of AI tools and ensure compliance with ethical standards.
• Shadow AI will be addressed through education and the provision of approved AI tools that meet the needs of employees while adhering to company policies.