The modernization of various innovations has paved the way for skyrocketing of several technologies. One such technology is Augmented Reality (AR). If you happen to be new to the space of reality, you might not have heard of this term. AR is a technology that enables users processed images to be displayed in the real world. An example of an excellent augmented reality experience would be to try an item of furniture in space via the Furniture AR experience app before buying it.
Best augmented reality experiences like these are made possible when a particular layer is added over the feed to create a dynamic, life-like experience. Augmented reality experiences are interactive, meaning the users can easily interact and receive live feedback for a corresponding interaction with the app. Many principles go behind in curating the best AR experiences for end-users. With that said, here are all principles an AR designer needs to take care of while building an AR experience:
1.) Set space expectations
Always inform users about the kind and amount of space before indulging them in an AR experience. For example, is the designed AR app ideal for the living room or not? An explicit notification about spatial requirements can help users improvise their expertise.
2.) Promote safe design
Augmented reality experiences can get too immersive at times. Therefore, it’s essential to regularly incorporate reminder notifications about space inspection, which would prevent users from falling by stumbling.
3.) Consider physical limitations
Since AR doesn’t require users to wear headsets, people hold their mobile phones while having AR experiences. Therefore, designers need to consider physical aspects. This can help publish comfortable designs and help prevent fatigue, a common side effect of real experiences. AR experiences created in shorter frames with periodical timeframes can help users have a peaceful experience.
4.) Relaxing experience
No user should be kept forcefully engaged in an augmented reality experience. For instance, a person may keep playing an AR game for longer due to fear of losing progress. An AR app must always include options to pause or save progress at a point in time to make it easier for users to switch places or take a break.
5.) Minimized input
Best augmented reality experiences are built around the idea of applying as few interactions as possible. Increasing inputs at interactions can confuse users and ruin their AR experience. Therefore, one must use less intrusive ways to collect feedback from users.
6.) Easier onboarding
Most users who experience AR apps are likely to be newcomers, and therefore, it is expected that they will require some form of understanding before getting started. A simple onboarding process can simplify this learning process and play a significant role in creating an excellent first impression through unique UX embedded right into the main flow of the app.
7.) Visual guidance
Using familiar UI patterns can significantly boost the ease of use among the people indulging in AR experiences. Friendly interactions would immediately make the app instantly desirable among first-time users. Instead of reinventing the wheel from scratch, one can look forward to making a familiar experience attractive with the combination of motion, animation, and visual cues.
Keeping these principles in mind, any AR Designer can look forward to building quality augmented reality experiences. If you wish to know more about the exciting world of AR, make sure to check out the Design for Augmented Reality course on ProApp. This descriptive course covers exciting topics like fundamentals, design process, types of AR, AR devices, and tools used to build AR experiences as its curriculum.