Marker-based AR implies the scanning of a particular image (marker) with the camera of your mobile device. The device recognizes the marker and displays the augmented reality content on top of it. For instance, this type of AR is purposefully used when we want to bring artworks to life from the same point as captured on the image, creating a smooth effect of revival. In order for a mobile device to accurately recognize the marker, the latter needs to have distinctive features and good enough contrast. Any image or object can serve as a marker, provided that it has sufficient unique visual points. The common examples include printed materials, such as logos, pictures, leaflets, brochures, posters and even cylindrical objects like bottles and cans, which require marker-based cylindrical AR tracking. With the help of extended tracking, the user can then move the marker around to a certain degree and the AR content will follow it, maintaining its orientation within a scene. In the Arloopa app, the user can also detach the AR content from the marker and place it anywhere in their environment, manually move it around and zoom in/out as needed.

With the emergence of advanced camera systems and more precise sensors in mainstream devices like Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy, AR has completed the transition from marker-based activations to markerless Augmented Reality experiences. Markerless AR tracking is easily the most effortless way of experiencing digital content via AR. As the name implies, the user does not need to scan any marker, but only needs to choose where to place the virtual content by simply hovering the device over a preferred surface, or even placing virtual objects to float mid- air. Markerless augmented reality is extremely useful for virtual try-on of clothing and accessories or retail product visualizations, allowing to try different combinations of items, styles, and sizes. Other uses range from education and training simulations, advertising, gaming to virtual art exhibitions.

Location-based augmented reality, also known as position-based and geo-based augmented reality, attaches AR content to a specific location. This means that in order to unlock the digital content, the user needs to be physically present at the particular location. In the Arloopa app, the location-based AR content can be discovered using the dynamic map. The pins on the map show the points where AR content is available. Once users arrive at the relevant locations and click on the pins digital content will be displayed in the real environment, completely marker-free. Location-based AR is especially convenient to use during events and in special venues, where the user’s presence is essential, such as concert halls or stadiums. Another popular use is virtual exhibitions that can be easily planned and organized anywhere in the world, with developers not leaving their desks.

If you already have a preferred image which you want to serve as a marker for your augmented reality experience, you should send the image to our team at arloopa@arloopa.com. Our specialists will evaluate your marker, request changes if necessary and create the experience for you.

ARLOOPA offers Starter, Basic and Pro pricing packages designed around the duration of the activation and the number of markers to be used. The stating price per a month of activation is $49/marker. For more information, see the full pricelist.

The activation usually takes from seconds to a few hours depending on the content. If the content needs refining, it will take a bit longer, and if the content is completely ready for activation, the activation will naturally take less time.

You are most welcome to develop and monetize your content with ARLOOPA. In order for your content to appear in our Models Library, please contact us at arloopa@arloopa.com.