Top 10 Augmented Reality Apps for Android

Many people have heard of augmented reality or AR, but do not really understand what it is. Some think it is connected to virtual reality. Others add it into the list of scary things they fear that will take over the world someday. However, once you understand the basics of AR, you will find that it is nothing to fear and can be extremely useful and entertaining in our daily lives.

Augmented reality is quite simply something that is technology-enabled to interact with and possibly enhance our lives and the world around us. Read on to learn about 10 of the top augmented reality apps for Android. You might be surprised to learn that you may already be using a couple of them.

1. WallaMe

WallaMe is a fun AR game for Android and iOS. Its users can take a picture of their surroundings, such as a sign or wall, and then draw a picture or message in the app. The message can be just between friends or for all users of the app. If you use your camera where there is a message, it will show up for you.

2. Inkhunter

If you have ever considered getting a tattoo but you are a bit nervous, Inkhunter may be helpful to you. This AR app lets you “try on” a tattoo. You can place a tattoo on the desired location through a picture so you can see how it looks before letting a needle near your body.

3. Quiver

Quiver brings coloring to life. Place your phone over your drawing or coloring page, tap the app and watch the page come to life in 3D form. Though this AR app is made for kids, anyone can enjoy it. This augmented reality app could most definitely be used for business when attempting to bring a product or design to life.

4. Google Goggles

This AR app is incredibly helpful when information is needed on just about any 2d objects. Scan an object and if Google has any information on it, you will get it. It works well with anything from foreign words to paintings to barcodes. Google Goggles could be used to make market and product research simpler.

5. Google Translate

Google Translate is an incredibly useful app for anyone who needs to read another language. Whether the user just wants to read a foreign word online or travels to different countries, Google Translate will tell you what that word means in your language. This is a handy augmented reality app for international business professionals.

6. ViewRanger

ViewRanger is a great AR app for avid hikers, bikers, and other outdoorsmen. It has many trails to be discovered and terrain maps. It shows you lakes and other natural landmarks. Additionally, you can use your GPS to log your own trail into the app.

7. Holo

For some fun with kids or friends, Holo is an amazing AR app. It includes holograms of different people, characters, animals and things that you can place in pictures. You might find Spiderman, monkeys, mermaids and more.

8. Star Walk 2

Staring at the stars is a favorite pastime of many people and being able to name the stars and constellations has been a goal of many others. Star Walk 2 can help with this. By opening the app and pointing your phone toward the sky and you will have a map of the stars and constellations in front of you. It is a great educational tool or can be used for fun.

9. IKEA Place

IKEA Place is similar to Inkhunter. Instead of trying on tattoos, though, you can digitally decorate and rearrange your room. This AR would be useful for setting up and office or remodeling a home before spending the first bit of money or energy.

10. Snapchat

Snapchat is possibly one of the most well-known AR apps. We often see friends and family sharing pictures of themselves with a dog face or cat ears augmented on top of their own face. The face swap feature has also become a popular pastime. Snapchat is one of the leading AR apps currently.

Augmented reality may sound intimidating and possibly a little childish. However, hopefully, you can see the value in these AR apps for your business and personal life. Technology should simplify our lives and entertain us. Put these augmented reality apps for Android to work and play for you.