Augmented reality accessories are intuitive tools, add-ons, and extras designed to enhance user experiences when adopting smart glasses and AR headsets.
Demand for these solutions is increasing as the market for augmented reality continues to grow, predicted to reach a value of $1,109.71 billion by 2030. AR accessories dont just give AR fans an opportunity to personalize their experience. They can also improve innovative AR solutions functionality, comfort, and performance.
Today, were looking at some of the most impressive and valuable augmented reality accessories, ideal for consumers and business users.
Augmented reality accessories come in a range of different forms.
Some solutions are simple and designed to address common problems, like keeping devices charged and ready for use. For instance, Microsoft has dedicated USB chargers for its HoloLens 2, while other vendors offer comprehensive charging stations.
Others are more advanced. For instance, rumors suggest Apple may begin embedding AR solutions into its Airtag productsas it invests in the XR world with the Vision Pro and VisionOS.
Here are just some of the augmented reality accessories we recommend considering today.
Spatial computing and augmented reality often go hand-in-hand. Thats particularly true now that innovators like Apple are embracing the broad capabilities of spatial systems to enhance their headsets. One evolving aspect of spatial computing is spatial sound.
Many AR headsets and smart glasses already have their own spatial audio systems. These tools are designed to enhance the XR immersion, helping to position sound around the user wherever it makes the most sense.
However, for headsets that dont have the most intuitive spatial sound capabilities, accessories are an excellent alternative. For example, the Rokid AR Studio spatial computing platform can be enhanced with omnidirectional speakers for cinematic audio.
Apples AirPod Pros and AirPod Max earbuds can also bring spatial sound to various environments. They use Dolby Atmos technologies, internal gyroscopes, and accelerometers to reposition and optimize sound waves.
The hype around haptic technologies, capable of simulating physical sensations for XR users, has died down somewhat in recent years. However, these accessories could be valuable in specific settings. Haptic gloves, body suits, and belts can all transform our interactions with digital content.
These augmented reality accessories have incredible potential, particularly in the enterprise and business environment, boosting collaboration and creativity.
They can allow consumers to feel what theyre interacting with in a virtual or augmented reality space, allowing for better training simulations. Fluid Reality recently introduced an enhanced set of haptic feedback gloves compatible with a range of headsets.
Elsewhere, companies like Subpac produce haptic backpacks, which generate vibrations based on audio signals. There are even organizations like Woojer investing in developing vests and haptic belts which cause immersive haptic sensations for most AR and VR headsets.
In the world of augmented reality accessories, controllers are less common than they are in the VR space. Many of the top AR and mixed reality headsets dont require physical controllers at all. The Apple Vision Proand the Microsoft HoloLens 2 use hand and eye tracking to process user input.
This means you can interact with content without having to press any buttons or interact with a keyboard. However, there are still controllers that can enhance the user experience. Apples Vision Pro solution can work alongside your Mac devices to give you more control over content.
Additionally, innovators like Tap have created strap-style solutions that users can wear on their knuckles to interact with virtual keyboards and other tools. These augmented reality accessories track which fingers you tap to help input commands quickly.
Though they may not be necessary for lightweight smart glasses, protective covers and masks are extremely useful for full AR headsets. Designed to improve user comfort, minimize feelings of VR sickness, and even protect hardware, these augmented reality accessories come in various styles.
There are disposable eye covers for AR and VR headsets, which protect the hardware from sweat and create a more hygienic experience for teams. These solutions can reduce the spread of bacteria and germs, ideal if more than one of your employees needs to use the same headset.
Memory foam faceplates can also increase the comfort of users wearing AR headsets for long periods. Apple has even crafted a modular and customizable system for the Apple Vision Pro to reduce light leakage and minimize pressure on the users face.
Microsoft also has brow pad options for its HoloLens headset, designed for everyday and industrial use.
One of the users biggest challenges when adopting AR, VR, and MR headsets is ensuring these technologies adapt to their visual requirements. Wearing standard eyeglasses under an AR headset or a pair of smart glasses makes the whole experience less comfortable.
This has prompted companies to invest in solutions that allow users to swap the lenses of their smart glasses with solutions tailored to their visual needs. In the VR world, Meta has partnered with the Zenni company to offer custom prescription lenses to consumers.
In augmented reality accessories, Apple is taking a similar approach, allowing users to customize their headsets with prescription lenses. This not only makes AR devices more accessible to a broader range of users, but it can also improve comfort and reduce VR sickness.
Another of the top augmented reality accessories specifically intended for larger AR/VR or MR headsets, durable head straps offer a range of benefits to users.
They ensure consumers get the best possible fit from their wearable device, reducing slippage and unnecessary pressure on their heads and face. Microsoft introduced a high-quality overhead strap for the HoloLens 2, which promises to make wearing a headset more comfortable for extended periods.
Similarly, rumors indicate Apple plans to develop a secondary strap for the Apple Vision Pro. This overhead strap will help evenly distribute the headsets weight for wearers, making it feel more comfortable and balanced.
As advanced technology continues to make AR devices heavier, additional straps will help to reduce some of the strain on users, allowing for a more natural experience.
As mentioned above, some of the top augmented reality accessories address major challenges consumers and businesses have when adopting XR innovations. Even the best AR headsets often have limited battery power, mainly wirelessly.
This has led developers and innovative vendors to invest in developing new power solutions for their headsets. The Apple Vision Pro, for instance, will have a separate power bank removed from the headset to minimize weight. This power bank can be charged externally, and there may even be an option for companies to buy several extra batteries for long-term use.
Microsoft is also apparently working on developing hot-swappable batteries for AR smart glasses. Companies are working with third-party vendors and developers to create charging stations and docks to simplify the charging process.
Finally, some of the best augmented reality accessories are also the simplest. Though AR headsets and smartglasses are becoming more affordable, thanks to evolutions in advanced technology, theyre still expensive investments. Companies and consumers must ensure they keep their headsets and other devices safe, particularly during transportation.
Carrying cases, offered by leading XR brands like Microsoft and third parties, are a great way to protect a headset from dust, damage, and scratches. Heavy-duty cases can also help to make your technology easier to transport (to and from the office).
Alongside carry cases, some brands invest in other solutions to help maintain XR gear. For instance, cleaning pens and microfiber lens cleaning clothes are low-cost, convenient tools for minimizing wear and tear.
The demand for innovative augmented reality accessories and add-ons will only grow as this market continues to evolve. Vendors will continue to innovate as businesses embrace augmented and mixed reality solutions to empower workers, unlock new levels of productivity, and boost creativity.
From intuitive haptic solutions to spatial audio systems and even simple charging docks, countless augmented reality accessories can enhance user experience. While you might not need all the options above, some of these tools will surely take your AR adventure to the next level.
Read more here:
The Best Augmented Reality Accessories for AR Immersion - XR Today
- Fans still waiting for a virtual reality view of the Buffalo Bills' new ... - Buffalo News - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- Immerse yourself in new, augmented worlds - University of Miami: News@theU - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- Who are the leading innovators in vehicle digital twins for the ... - just-auto.com - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- How Virtual and Augmented Reality Are Redefining Construction - TimesTech - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- Virtualware Appoints VRARA's John A Cunningham to Advisory Board - XR Today - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- University Project Aims to Dissolve Borders Between Virtual and ... - XR Today - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- Are real cadavers better than virtual ones? - Slate - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- Samsung Glasses could be the name of a new pair of Samsung ... - TechRadar - November 28th, 2023 [November 28th, 2023]
- The best VR apps for 2022 | Digital Trends - February 18th, 2023 [February 18th, 2023]
- What is virtual reality? - TechTarget - February 18th, 2023 [February 18th, 2023]
- Forget the metaverse, Sony's PlayStation VR2 will make you a virtual reality believer again - British GQ - February 18th, 2023 [February 18th, 2023]
- Time to play! New virtual reality gaming coming to Northern Virginia - WUSA9.com - January 31st, 2023 [January 31st, 2023]
- Virtual reality training content launched for footwear and leather sector - The Hindu - January 31st, 2023 [January 31st, 2023]
- Texas A&M researchers are using multisensory virtual reality to help NASA astronauts - KAGSTV.com - January 31st, 2023 [January 31st, 2023]
- Hollywoods Virtual Reality Guru and American Millionaire Expanded His Soccer Portfolio to Europe With a Deal Worth $940 Million - EssentiallySports - January 8th, 2023 [January 8th, 2023]
- TikTok owner ByteDance takes first step into virtual reality with ... - December 26th, 2022 [December 26th, 2022]
- Virtual Reality inspires students to think about long-term careers - Turn to 10 - December 21st, 2022 [December 21st, 2022]
- Virtual Reality Arcade with Best VR Game Experiences - Main Event - December 12th, 2022 [December 12th, 2022]
- Virtual Reality - reddit - November 16th, 2022 [November 16th, 2022]
- The Future Of Virtual Reality (VR) - Forbes - November 16th, 2022 [November 16th, 2022]
- Virtual Reality (VR) For Professional Workflows | NVIDIA - October 28th, 2022 [October 28th, 2022]
- Virtual reality in fiction - Wikipedia - October 28th, 2022 [October 28th, 2022]
- Meta will release a new consumer-grade VR headset next year - TechCrunch - October 28th, 2022 [October 28th, 2022]
- Virtual Reality [VR] Market Size & Share | Forecast Report, 2029 - October 25th, 2022 [October 25th, 2022]
- Virtual Reality in the Healthcare Industry - VISUALISE - October 25th, 2022 [October 25th, 2022]
- Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality vs. Mixed Reality - Intel - October 25th, 2022 [October 25th, 2022]
- Applications Of Virtual Reality - Virtual Reality Society - October 25th, 2022 [October 25th, 2022]
- The Global Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality In Manufacturing Market size is expected to reach $27.9 billion by 2028, rising at a market growth... - October 25th, 2022 [October 25th, 2022]
- We Met in Virtual Reality Explores the Potential of the Metaverse - Seven Days - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- What If the Metaverse Is Better Without Virtual Reality? - WIRED - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- XRHealth and HTC Introduce The First Distraction Therapy Virtual Reality Platform to Improve Patient Experience During Painful or Anxiety Provoking... - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Department of Corrections Introduces Virtual Reality Technology to Augment Programming for Incarcerated Parents and Their Children - Pennsylvania... - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Arden Bendler Browning conquers virtual reality, Luve More LC + Thinkers Makers Society, and opportunity - theartblog.org - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- How Virtual or Augmented Reality Can Help Your Packaging Line - Packaging Digest - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- A marriage of virtual reality and physical therapy: Immergo Labs emerges from its UCSC roots - Lookout Santa Cruz - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Senior living residents explore the world through virtual reality - Rocky Mountain PBS - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Orthopedic Residency Program and PrecisionOS Team up For Exclusive 3-Year Collaboration: Virtual Reality Development and Curriculum Integration - PR... - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- 6 Insightful Construction XR Cases to Read in 2022 - XR Today - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Video footage emerges from an MMA event that put virtual reality users into the thick of the fighting action - Yahoo News - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Carmack: Theres a bunch that Im grumpy about in virtual reality - Ars Technica - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- The Peripheral Co-Creator on the Shows Line Between Reality & Virtual Reality - TV Insider - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Clarkson's Dr. Dana Barry Gave a Presentation at International Conference in Italy - Clarkson University News - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Apple VR glove with finger- and hand-tracking patent hints at companion accessories for the "Reality Pro" headset - Notebookcheck.net - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- Virtual reality spectacle of 2010 sockeye run returns to Shuswap Salmon Arm Observer - Salmon Arm Observer - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- The virtual reality push brings together Microsoft, Meta and the art of war - Stuff - October 19th, 2022 [October 19th, 2022]
- What Is Virtual Reality All About? - Oculus VR - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- What Is Virtual Reality? | Tech & Learning - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- 10 Advantages And Disadvantages Of Virtual Reality (2022) - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Insights on the Tactile Virtual Reality Global Market Research Report to 2027 - Growing Advancements in Virtual Reality Products & Rising... - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Each guest experience will be different: VR and the future of theme parks - The Guardian - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Get your own personal holodeck with the HP Reverb G2 VR headset, now over $100 off at Amazon - Space.com - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Highway workers got a dose of virtual reality to help keep them safe - WVXU - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- IDC Tracker Sees a Long Road Ahead for Augmented Reality Headsets - Business Wire - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Anti-virtual reality note included with Northeastern explosive package - GBH News - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Virtual Reality (VR) Headset Market Projected to Hit USD 57.65 Billion at a 28.50% CAGR by 2030 - Report by Market Research Future (MRFR) -... - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Perspectus and The University of Charleston Offer Next Generation Virtual Reality Education Lab - Business Wire - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Virtual reality: Veteran on virtual trips around the world - VA News - Veterans Affairs (.gov) - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Malden Dancer Part Of Upcoming Augmented Reality Dance Project - Patch - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Cognitive load, fatigue and aversive simulator symptoms but not manipulated zeitgebers affect duration perception in virtual reality | Scientific... - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- The Joys and Horrors of Virtual Reality in Anime - Otaku USA Magazine - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Robot skull measures VR and AR headsets from any angle - MIXED Reality News - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Why VR could be the new dawn of pain, anxiety management - MedCity News - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- Disney Releases First AR Short Film; Is Virtual Reality the Future of Streaming at Disney+? - The Streamable - September 20th, 2022 [September 20th, 2022]
- virtual reality gaming (VR gaming) - WhatIs.com - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Worlds Most Immersive Virtual Reality Experience, Sandbox VR, is Coming Soon to Park Meadows - Yahoo Finance - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Virtual Reality Becomes Actual Reality for Title I Schools Across the Nation - PR Newswire - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Why is VR so important to the metaverse? - Verdict - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Worldwide Virtual Reality in Gaming Industry to 2027 - Rising Research Activities in the Field of VR is Driving Growth - Yahoo Finance - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Clocking In at the Virtual Reality Kmart - WIRED - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Virtual Reality Market to Register Impressive Expansion of - GlobeNewswire - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Welcome to the iDome: Concept offers virtual-reality riding therapy without a headset - Horsetalk - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Virtual Reality for Diversity and Inclusion - ATD - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Meta's 'Project Cambria' Virtual Reality Product to Launch This Fall - The National Interest Online - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Could virtual reality be the future of poultry health? - Food Safety News - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Virtual Reality: Taking the Online Dating Game to New Heights - TechSpective - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- POSITIVE VIBES: The positive vibes of virtual reality - Finger Lakes Times - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Planning Commission to hear request for virtual reality arcade in downtown Carson City - Carson Now - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- The Impact of Augmented Reality on the Gaming Industry in India - GLYFE Nation - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Oshkosh PD: Virtual reality simulator is proving to be a useful tool - WGBA NBC 26 in Green Bay - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]
- Accelerating the Evolution of the Industrial Metaverse - University of Houston - September 2nd, 2022 [September 2nd, 2022]