Top 5 Augmented Reality Apps to Try in 2024

Augmented Reality (AR) has come a long way, revolutionizing the way we interact with the digital world. Whether for entertainment, education, or productivity, AR apps are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. In 2024, AR technology continues to evolve, offering more immersive and practical experiences. If you’re looking to explore the latest AR apps, here are the top 5 augmented reality apps to try this year.

1. Pokémon GO (AR Gaming)

Pokémon GO remains one of the most popular AR apps since its launch in 2016. This mobile game combines the excitement of catching virtual Pokémon with real-world exploration, using augmented reality to place creatures in your surroundings. In 2024, the game continues to evolve with new features, regular events, and an expanding array of Pokémon.

Why Try It?

• Engage in interactive gameplay by finding and catching Pokémon in your environment.
• Participate in community events and challenges with players around the world.
• Use AR to battle, trade, and complete missions.

Pokémon GO blends entertainment with fitness, making it a fun and engaging way to explore your surroundings while staying active.

2. IKEA Place (Home Decor and Design)

IKEA Place revolutionizes home decorating by using AR to help you visualize furniture and decor in your own space before making a purchase. With this app, users can virtually place 3D models of IKEA products in their home or office, helping them visualize size, style, and placement.

Why Try It?

• Instantly see how furniture looks and fits in your room with realistic, life-sized 3D models.
• Make smarter shopping decisions by virtually testing different pieces in your space.
• Get personalized design suggestions based on your preferences.

Whether you’re renovating or just looking for new furniture, IKEA Place makes shopping for home decor easier and more efficient.

3. Google Lens (Object Recognition and Search)

Google Lens is an essential AR tool for anyone looking to identify objects, translate text, or get additional information on their surroundings. Simply point your phone’s camera at an object or text, and Google Lens provides instant results—whether it’s identifying a plant, translating foreign language text, or finding similar products online.

Why Try It?

• Identify objects, plants, landmarks, and even animals with the help of AR.
• Translate text and scan barcodes quickly.
• Discover more about products or businesses by simply scanning them.

With Google Lens, everyday activities like shopping, traveling, and learning have never been easier.

4. Snapchat (Social Media and Filters)

Snapchat has long been a leader in AR-based social media experiences, offering a range of fun filters and lenses. In 2024, Snapchat continues to innovate with new AR features, allowing users to enhance their photos and videos with dynamic, interactive elements. Whether it’s augmented reality lenses, games, or virtual try-ons, Snapchat’s AR capabilities are continuously evolving.

Why Try It?

• Access a wide variety of fun, interactive filters and lenses to enhance your snaps.
• Explore AR-based games and challenges with friends.
• Use virtual try-ons to see how makeup, accessories, and fashion items look on you.

Snapchat offers endless entertainment, creativity, and social interaction through its AR features, making it a must-have for anyone who enjoys interactive experiences.

5. AR Ruler (Measurement and Productivity)

For those looking for practical AR applications, AR Ruler is an incredibly useful tool for taking measurements of objects and spaces. Using your phone’s camera, the app superimposes virtual measuring lines onto the real world, allowing you to measure length, width, height, and even area with high precision.

Why Try It?

• Measure objects and spaces quickly without the need for a physical ruler or tape measure.
• Supports various measurement units (inches, centimeters, meters).
• Offers additional features like area and volume calculations, perfect for DIY projects or home improvements.

AR Ruler is a must-have for anyone who needs a handy, portable measurement tool at their fingertips.

Conclusion

Augmented reality apps are transforming the way we interact with the world around us, offering a wide range of applications that span gaming, productivity, design, and social media. In 2024, AR technology is becoming more immersive, intuitive, and practical. Whether you’re redesigning your home, having fun with friends, or learning new things, these AR apps offer something for everyone. Embrace the future and explore these top 5 augmented reality apps today!