What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented Reality (AR) refers to computer research that aims to produce information systems that combine real-world information with digital information. Augmented Reality is still in the early phase of development, yet many futurists and researchers hope that can be applied in 2010's or 2020's.
The main goal of the Augmented Reality system will manifest themselves as a lens or retinal projector that will provide relevant information display, mapped into the surrounding environment in realtime. For example, when he saw a restaurant with Augmented Reality glasses, then one automatically call directly to the database review, or a menu from the restaurant website. A scientist who works at a pharmaceutical company could use the glasses to view 3D models of various molecules and use it to visualize a better drug. Children may use AR glasses of networks connected to real life playing a video game that allows the firing "laser" from them. Although the possibility is rather limited.
Augmented Reality depends on the progress of miniaturization technologies and mobile computing (mobile computing). Currently, an effective projection system technology and small and fast computers are still not cooked enough to really make an effective Augmented Reality interfaces, even though we were getting closer to perfection with the research carried out continuously by the experts. Prototype has been made for decades, but the main product that really worth not yet exist. One promising technology is the projection of the retina - a low-powered laser projection images directly onto the retina, so that glasses are not used anymore. Commercial retinal projection system actually exists, but the resolution and color palette is still very low.
Augmented Reality is in fact already exist in rudimentary form. For example, sports commentators often use the light pen to "draw" on the soccer field to provide a visual aid to fellow commentators. Another example is the image ads that often appear in the field of badminton when it aired on TV, as if this ad image attached to the field. Image ads sponsorship continues to alternate during the game. This shows proof of the concept of AR though still limited, of course.