he Augmented World Expo (AWE) is one of the biggest annual AR/VR events of the tech event calendar, which typically attracts around 7,000 attendees and more than 250+ exhibitors. However this year, like most events planned in 2020, the event has had to pivot and go entirely online due to the pandemic lockdown and travel restrictions.
The change to a completely virtual event didn't seem to dampen the spirits of companies taking part, and there were some impressive Augmented Reality projects on show at this years event. There were 16 Auggie Awards given out during the online awards show, so let's take a look at 3 inspiring Auggie winners of 2020.
Best Consumer App
Winner: SBB AR App - The Future of Customer Information by SBB
As Google has recently shown, with their Live View AR directions mode, Augmented Reality can prove extremely useful in assisting travellers with getting around. SBB Immobilien developed a consumer app to increase travel convenience when navigating new places.
Pitched as a way to optimise your travel by making it easier to navigate through places like train stations, which can be notoriously difficult if it's your first time at a particular station. Currently, SBB AR Preview App is only available on Android and functions at Zurich main station as well as other associated stops.
This is a great use of AR and provides a genuine utility to the consumer - let's hope they roll out more available locations soon.
Best Headworn Device
Winner: Nreal Light by Nreal
Using advanced cameras within the Nreal Light frames, Nreal offers a Mixed Reality (MR) experience by layering things like apps and video within your own environment. 5G enabled, the Nreal Light glasses are being targeted towards a range of industries and applications for both consumer and businesses. Nreal lists the following examples:
- Gaming
- Shopping
- Studying
- Collaborating
- Manufacturing
- Tourism
- Healthcare
- Logistics
With YouTube comments like:
"Shut up and take my money, when can we buy?"
There is a clear excitement around such a product and well deserved Auggie for Nreal!
Best Input or Output Hardware
Winner: Looking Glass 8K Immersive Display by Looking Glass Factory
The Looking Glass 8K Immersive Display is boasted as the world’s largest, highest-resolution holographic display and at 32’’ it is four times the size of anything else available on the market today. It's clear why Looking Glass Factory were crowned this years Best Input or Output Hardware award when you take a look at the 8K display in-action. The crystal clear holographic image allows for a highly immersive viewing experience.
The product lends itself to use-cases like mapping, automotive, architecture and engineering among other industries.
AWE 2020 Round up
As with many other live events this year, AWE have done a fantastic job at quickly moving to an online event. What happens in 2021 is still unconfirmed, but here's to hoping we get back to normal proceedings as soon as possible.
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