Tourism has always been associated with emotions, discoveries, and memories. But in 2025, travel will also be associated with technology. Augmented reality is no longer just an experiment — it is becoming the infrastructure for tourism. Today, thanks to WebAR technology, travelers don’t need to download apps: they scan a QR code, open a link, and get an immersive AR layer right in their smartphone browser.

Thousands of creators and companies are already testing these ideas on the MyWebAR platform. And you can too. Here are 12 ideas using AR that may inspire you to start a new project in the tourism industry.

1. Living souvenirs

A magnet, keychain, or postcard doesn’t have to be static. With AR, they can tell a story: a 3D character greeting travelers, a mini-documentary about a landmark, or a musical performance recorded on the streets of the city. Guests don’t just take a souvenir home with them — they take a piece of the city that literally comes to life.

On the MyWebAR platform, you can use Image Tracking or Real World Tracking, or you can add an AR layer using 3D Object Tracking — a real work of art.

2. Postcards with AR

Classic postcards, even those sent from the most distant countries in the world, often end up in a desk drawer. But postcards with AR turn into memorable souvenirs: the Eiffel Tower comes to life with animation, the waterfall roars, and a historical figure tells their story. With the AI Text-to-3D tools on MyWebAR, you can create such content in minutes, even without 3D design skills.

3. Interactive maps

Every traveler needs a map. Yes, Google Maps usually saves the day, but imagine a map that you get at your hotel reception, and this map “comes to life”: hotels, city museums, AR navigation of the entire hotel complex or cruise ship decks with step-by-step navigation, animated routes, or landmarks appearing in 3D. Tourists can scan a QR code and get a tour of the resort or even collect digital “stamps” along the way.

4. Quests and treasure hunts

Gamification makes travel unforgettable. AR quests turn sightseeing into a game: guests scan codes, solve puzzles, find hidden clues in monuments, and collect virtual prizes. Don’t forget to track analytics on the MyWebAR platform to monitor engagement and discover what interests your visitors the most — and at the same time, adjust your AR content.

5. Digital catalogs and brochures

Traditional catalogs and brochures are heavy and static. In AR, the catalog becomes interactive: hotels present tours of rooms, restaurants show seasonal dishes in 3D, and travel agencies add video guides. For example, a printed brochure for a ski resort can unfold into a 3D model of the slopes that “come to life” right on the table in front of you.

6. AR on buildings and facades

Historic buildings, modern art museums, and even cafes can “speak” through AR. Visitors point their phones and see reconstructions, animations, or stories superimposed on real facades. It’s like traveling through time: ruins restored in 3D, old markets brought back to life, or an architect explaining the style of a building. Or, additional beautiful layers of digital art can be added to buildings and cultural sites.

7. AR-enabled travel guide covers

What if your travel guide started telling its story before you even opened it? An AR-enabled cover could launch a trailer: a video greeting from the author, animated route snippets, or a 3D map giving a glimpse of what’s inside. Publishers are already using this idea to stand out, and it’s a new way to combine print and digital technologies.

8. Live menus and gastronomic experiences

Food is at the heart of travel. AR menus allow guests to see dishes in real size before ordering, explore ingredients, or view the chef’s story. With the help of artificial intelligence tools in MyWebAR, it now takes just a few clicks to create such 3D dishes. This approach not only stimulates sales but also reduces misunderstandings in international restaurants thanks to multilingual AR menus.

9. Exhibitions and cultural sites

Museums and galleries are the perfect venues for AR. Visitors can point their phones at an artifact and see its reconstruction, hear the story of its creation, or even interact with characters from history. In MyWebAR, city organizations are already creating AR exhibitions using Spatial Tracking, which makes the experience more immersive.

10. Hotels and cruise ships

Navigating large spaces can be a daunting task. AR guides help travelers find their way around a hotel, locate a spa or conference room, or explore the decks of a cruise ship. Multi-level information allows guests to feel comfortable, and businesses gain the ability to interact directly without hiring additional staff.

11. Travel packages and loyalty cards

Even a plastic card or paper ticket can become a digital channel. Add an AR layer: a welcome video, travel tips, special offers, or loyalty points. This turns ordinary materials into a communication tool that increases customer retention and loyalty. Don’t forget that you can change and add to your AR content without having to change the QR code, which means you don’t have to reissue new batches of cards for guests.

12. Art collaborations

Restaurants and hotels are already collaborating with digital artists to create unique AR scenes for their guests. Imagine a seasonal menu presented not only as text but also as an AR performance on the table. These digital experiences make every visit an event and encourage guests to share their discoveries on social media.

Why it matters

Tourism is at the intersection of pleasure, discovery, and technology. AR amplifies this connection by giving physical things — maps, menus, tickets, facades, souvenirs — a digital “second life.”

And the best part? With WebAR and AI tools on MyWebAR, you no longer need a studio to create this kind of content. What once cost thousands and took weeks can now be built in days, often by marketers or managers themselves.

So take these ideas, test them in your business, and don’t wait for the future — it’s already here, in the palm of your hand.

Augmented reality is no longer just a futuristic concept. It’s a practical tool changing how we learn, teach, and experience the world around us. When used in education, AR makes abstract concepts tangible, fosters creativity, and engages students in entirely new ways.

From primary schools to universities, here are 17 inspiring ideas for using AR in education. Platforms like MyWebAR are making it easy to build immersive content with the help of AI.

1. Bring historical events to life

Recreate historical scenes in 3D so students can witness them in context. Imagine standing in front of the Berlin Wall or seeing the signing of the Declaration of Independence in a 360° AR experience.
Why it matters: Increases retention and empathy by creating emotional connections to the material.

2. Interactive AR science labs

Allow students to explore the human body, dissect a frog, or experiment with chemical reactions virtually.
Why it matters: Gives access to lab experiences without needing physical equipment. And yup! No animals will get hurt.

3. Math made visual

Visualize geometry, algebra, and calculus concepts in 3D. Graphs become interactive, and shapes become manipulable.
Why it matters: Improves understanding of abstract problems and equations.

4. Language learning through AR prompts

Place interactive vocabulary cards or conversation scenarios in physical space. Scan and hear native pronunciation or answer questions in a gamified AR quiz.
Why it matters: Encourages active participation and better memorization.

5. Campus navigation for new students

Create AR wayfinding experiences to guide students to classrooms, cafeterias, or event spaces.
Why it matters: Makes campuses feel welcoming and accessible.

6. Enhance textbooks and printed materials

Add QR codes to textbooks that launch 3D models, animations, or video explanations.
Why it matters: Makes print interactive and keeps learning relevant.

Did you know? DEVAR, the creator of the MyWebAR platform, has been working with augmented reality in education for over 10 years. One of the company’s flagship areas is developing AR-powered books and encyclopedias. More than 15 million copies have been sold in 75 countries in 27 languages.

7. AR for inclusive education (Autism, ADHD)

Create AR scenes that simplify instructions, provide visual cues, and help students with ASD or ADHD stay engaged.
Why it matters: Offers personalized learning paths and reduces cognitive overload and anxiety.

8. AR treasure hunts and quizzes

Design scavenger hunts where clues appear in AR, making learning a playful adventure.
Why it matters: Boosts engagement and adds physical activity to learning.

9. AR-enhanced art and design classes

Use AR to show design iterations, scale models, or animate student artworks.
Why it matters: Encourages creative expression and portfolio development.

10. Time travel tours of cities

Overlay historical scenes on present-day streets. Let students walk through their hometown as it looked 100 or 500 years ago.
Why it matters: Deepens connection with local history and geography.

11. AR coding and robotics training

Visualize code outcomes in AR or connect physical robots to virtual environments.
Why it matters: Helps learners understand cause-and-effect in programming.

12. Student-generated AR projects

Let students build their own AR scenes to present projects or tell stories.
Why it matters: Fosters ownership of learning and digital literacy.

13. Interactive school exhibitions

Add AR to science fairs, art shows, or presentations. Let students narrate their work via 3D avatars.
Why it matters: Builds confidence and engagement with parents and peers.

14. Library exploration and book previews

Use AR to scan book covers and show summaries, trailers, or author bios.
Why it matters: Encourages reading and helps students choose books.

15. School branding and AR yearbooks

Imagine school logos, uniforms, or banners coming to life with messages, videos, or 3D animations. Yearbooks can hold memories that speak — literally.
Why it matters: Brings school culture to life in new, interactive ways.

16. Immersive storytelling in literature

Make books magical. Characters jump off the pages, settings transform into 3D environments, and students interact with stories as if they were part of them.
Why it matters: Makes literature engaging and accessible, especially for young learners.

17. AI + AR in project-based learning

Using built-in AI tools in platforms like MyWebAR, students can create 3D models, voiceovers, animations, or music. All without coding. In one week, a team can create a fully interactive AR scene to present their project.
Why it matters: Encourages teamwork, creativity, and real-world skills in digital storytelling.

Built-in AI tools to create AR content faster

With MyWebAR, educators don’t need technical expertise. The platform has built-in AI tools that help you:

• Generate 3D models quickly

• Create voiceovers in multiple languages

• Write scripts and quizzes

• Animate scenes

• Translate and localize projects instantly

These tools save time and help educators create high-quality content with ease.

Final thoughts

AR in education isn’t just about novelty. It’s about impact. It helps students understand complex ideas and makes learning inclusive, interactive, and memorable.

With no-code, AI-enhanced platforms like MyWebAR, building an AR scene can be as easy as dragging and dropping content.

Start small. Try one idea. And let your classroom or learning space become a place students will never forget.

We are entering a new era of web-based augmented reality — where AR is no longer limited to printed pictures or QR codes, but instead flows freely through the spaces around us. This is where Spatial Tracking comes in.

With Spatial Tracking, your digital content no longer clings to a flat surface or a static marker. Instead, it wraps itself naturally around real-world objects — whether that’s a sculpture in a museum, a storefront facade, a giant machine, or a historic landmark. The technology recognises the three-dimensional shapes and features of the object, transforming it into an interactive AR anchor point.

This is more than just a technical upgrade. It’s a shift in mindset: AR is no longer something “added on top” — it’s something that integrates into the spaces we inhabit. AR becomes part of our cities, our businesses, our daily lives.

With that vision in mind, let’s walk through how to build your own Spatial Tracking project on MyWebAR, using a simple, no-code process.

Step 1 — Create your project

In the MyWebAR editor, click Create Project and select Spatial Tracking.
The system will generate a unique Scan Link (URL + QR code) — this is what you’ll use to scan and register your chosen object.

Step 2 — Open the scan link

On your smartphone, tap the URL or scan the QR.
A WebAR page will open directly in your browser — no app download required.

Step 3 — Start capturing

Follow the on-screen prompt:
“Point your camera over the object or area you’d like to augment and slowly move your phone from side to side to initialize capture.”

A red Record button will appear — tap it to begin.

Walk slowly along or around the object until the progress bar beneath the button turns orange, or ideally green.

Keep in mind:

• Move smoothly, avoiding sudden jerks.
• Keep your speed steady.
• Make sure each new camera angle overlaps the previous one.
• Pass over the same areas from different angles for a richer scan.
• Work in a well-lit space for the best results.

Step 4 — Finish & Upload

Once the capture is complete, tap Finish Scan.
The system will automatically upload the data.

Step 5 — Refresh the editor

Back on desktop, reload your project.
You’ll now see a proxy model of your scanned object — this is your anchor for adding AR content.

Step 6 — Add your content

Drag and drop your creative assets into the scene:

• 3D models
• Images and GIFs
• Videos
• Audio clips
• Interactive buttons

You can position, scale, rotate, and assign actions to each element.

Step 7 — Preview & Publish

Click Preview to test how your AR scene works live.
When you’re ready, hit Publish — and your original QR/URL will deliver the full AR experience to anyone who scans it.

Why this matters

Spatial Tracking is not just another feature; it’s a major leap forward for web AR. It means that digital layers can now wrap around physical objects in ways we once only imagined — anchored not to flat paper, but to real, textured, three-dimensional space.

With tools like MyWebAR, you don’t need coding skills, big budgets, or specialist hardware to tap into this power. Any brand, artist, museum, educator, or creator can now bring their physical world to life with digital experiences.

The future of AR isn’t just on screens. It’s all around us — and it’s ready for you to build.

AI and WebAR: A Game-Changing Combination

Artificial Intelligence is driving digital transformation across industries, and its integration with WebAR is making immersive experiences more accessible than ever. Unlike traditional AR, WebAR operates entirely in a browser, eliminating the need for app downloads and simplifying content delivery for businesses, educators, and marketers.

The 2025 Deloitte Tech Trends report highlights AI’s role in shaping digital ecosystems, emphasizing AI-driven automation, adaptive AI models, and the democratization of AI tools. As AI capabilities evolve, its synergy with WebAR is unlocking new possibilities for content creators, marketers, and educators.

MyWebAR is at the forefront of this shift, offering AI-enhanced tools that streamline AR content creation. These innovations enable users to generate AR experiences without technical expertise, making AR adoption easier and more scalable.

How AI Enhances WebAR Experiences

AI-powered tools are revolutionizing WebAR in several key ways:

• Automated 3D Content Generation – AI assists in creating 3D models, animations, and textures, reducing development time by up to 70%.
• Cost-Effective Scalability – Traditional AR development can cost $10,000+ and take 3-6 months. WebAR solutions powered by AI significantly lower costs, making AR accessible to small and medium-sized businesses.
• AI Chatbot for AR Creation – MyWebAR’s AI-powered bot enables users to create AR projects in under 30 seconds using text prompts, democratizing AR content creation.

MyWebAR Case Studies: AI in Action

1. AI in Education: Making Learning Immersive

WebAR is transforming education by providing interactive learning experiences.

Case Study: AI Simplifies AR Content Creation
The MyWebAR platform actively collaborates with educational institutions worldwide. The platform’s users include students from over 200 universities, including Duke University (USA), Yale University (USA), University of the Arts (USA), The University of Sydney (Australia), Virginia Tech (USA), California College of the Arts (USA), and Facultad de Artes Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (Argentina), among many others.

The introduction of AI tools for content creation has significantly simplified the workflow for students and educators, allowing them to generate AR content more efficiently. Additionally, users can create more complex interactive scenarios by generating code directly on the platform using AI and without programming knowledge.

AI-powered adaptive learning technologies are predicted to increase student retention rates by 30% by 2025. Platforms like MyWebAR are following this trend, increasing user retention by 45% with AR technology and making it easier for students to customize AI-generated content.

2. AI in Retail and Marketing: Elevating Customer Engagement

Brands are using WebAR to create engaging shopping experiences without requiring app downloads.

Case Study: AI-Powered 3D Content Generation
MyWebAR’s text-to-3D model generator enables retailers and marketers to quickly create custom AR product visuals without requiring specialized design skills. AI-generated models help brands scale AR experiences more efficiently, driving higher consumer interaction.

3. AI in Art and Culture: Redefining Storytelling

AI is enabling new forms of interactive storytelling in the creative industries.

Case Study: AI Expands AR Creation for Artists
MyWebAR has previously highlighted multiple case studies from the art sector. The latest breakthrough occurred following the implementation of AI tools for AR content creation. Artists can now build entirely unique AR environments, combining both virtual and physical elements of their works.

In 2025, an increasing number of museums and cultural institutions are expected to experiment with AI-driven AR to enhance visitor engagement and storytelling. While exact adoption rates vary, the trend toward integrating AR for personalized museum experiences continues to grow, aligning with broader digital transformation strategies in the cultural sector.

What’s Next? The Future of AI in WebAR

As AI technology advances, WebAR platforms like MyWebAR are introducing cutting-edge automation and personalization features that redefine AR creation. Some of the latest AI-powered capabilities include:

• AI-Generated 3D Objects – MyWebAR’s text-to-3D model generator allows users to create detailed AR objects based on text descriptions. This feature is revolutionizing industries like e-commerce, education, and marketing, enabling businesses to scale their AR content faster.
  
• AI-Powered Virtual Assistants – Intelligent chatbots and voice assistants are now integrated into AR experiences, helping users create augmented reality projects on the go, from generating a 3D object to designing an animated scene for it.
  
• Automated AI-Assisted AR Project Generation – With MyWebAR’s AI-powered creation tools, users can now generate an AR experience in seconds by providing a short text description, making WebAR more accessible than ever.

As AI continues to evolve, the fusion of machine learning and WebAR will drive more intelligent, interactive, and immersive AR solutions. MyWebAR is leading this transformation, enabling creators and businesses to leverage AI for seamless, automated, and scalable AR experiences.

Stay tuned for upcoming innovations that will push the boundaries of AI-powered AR!

In this exclusive interview for the MyWebAR Blog, Levan Geliashvili Eredeli — art manager, curator, and founder of Street Gallery — shares how he’s revolutionizing public spaces with augmented reality. From Berlin City Walls to the vibrant streets of Vienna, Levan uses AR technology to transform urban environments into immersive, interactive art galleries. Discover how platforms like MyWebAR play a crucial role in his projects, making digital street art more accessible and engaging. Learn why Levan believes AR is not just a tool but the future of contemporary art.

Tell us about your project, its idea, geography, and the key messages behind it.

AR Cities is an annual project that merges digital art with urban environments, creating immersive and interactive exhibitions through augmented realityHow AR is Redefining Public Art. Every fall, we bring motion to digital artworks by artists from around the world, transforming cities into open-air digital galleries. The core message behind AR Cities is to make art accessible to everyone, integrating AR technology into public spaces.

The project spans multiple locations, with past exhibitions in Berlin, Tallinn, Tbilisi, Batumi, New York, Vienna, Brussels, Milan and Rome. Through AR Posters, AR sculptures with Spatial tracking tool, we introduce digital street art to diverse audiences, fostering new ways of engaging with contemporary art.

Could you share a little about yourself and your creative journey?

I am Levan Geliashvili Eredeli, an art manager, curator, and the founder of Street Gallery. Since 2007, I have been organizing festivals, exhibitions, and educational programs designed to support emerging artists. My ultimate goal is to empower artists, help them bring their visions to life, and propel them to the forefront of the art scene.

Beyond curation and arts management, I am also an artist. My journey with digital art began nearly two decades ago, in 2003–2004, when I created my first digital artwork. Digital art and street art have always been central to my life, shaping my creative vision and inspiring my work. After years of organizing festivals and leading exhibitions, I wanted to build something that would democratize art, allowing artists to share their work with a wide audience — freely and accessibly.

This vision led to the creation of Street Gallery, a creative movement that challenges the traditional gallery model. We provide an alternative, non-traditional exhibition platform, bringing art into public spaces across different cities and countries. Our concept integrates Art Boxes (wall-mounted exhibition frames), Digital Street Art (Augmented Reality), and Special Digital Monitors in open urban environments — transforming streets into galleries where art is free and accessible to all.

When did you first encounter AR technology, and what was your initial reaction?

I first came across AR online about a decade ago, but my first hands-on experience with AR technology was in 2016. Seeing static images come to life dynamically and interactively felt truly revolutionary, blurring the boundaries between the digital and physical worlds. The ability to engage with art beyond a screen made me realize the immense potential of AR in reshaping how we experience and interact with creativity.

What sparked your interest in using AR in art?

The idea of bringing digital art into public spaces in an interactive way was the key driver. Traditional galleries often feel restrictive, both in accessibility and in how art is presented. AR allows for a democratized experience, letting anyone engage with digital artworks directly in their cityscape, without walls or admission barriers. This intersection of technology and art inspired me to explore AR as a medium for curating exhibitions. I call it the Digital Street Art movement.

How long have you been using immersive technologies, including AR, in your creative work? Was it easy to integrate them into your projects?

Between 2007 and 2008, as technology rapidly evolved, the fusion of art and digital innovation became increasingly accessible. During this period, I began experimenting with interactive installations, exploring ways to integrate technology with physical objects in urban spaces. The breakthrough came with the rise of Augmented Reality (AR), which was driven by advancements in mobile devices and digital systems. Seeing its potential, I coined the term Digital Street Art — a concept that seamlessly merges technology and street art, transforming public spaces into interactive, immersive experiences. 

The biggest challenge was technical accessibility, as not all audiences are familiar with AR interactions. However, platforms like MyWebAR have made it easier to bring digital installations to life with minimal barriers. Over the years, as technology has improved, the process has become more intuitive, making it a seamless part of curatorial and artistic experiences.

Could you share some of your favorite artistic projects that utilized AR?

Some of my favorites are Berlin City Walls and Vienna streets. MyWebAR played a crucial role in making these projects accessible, allowing users to interact with art through their smartphones. Most interesting for me is the Digital sculptures and Spatial Tracking tool — they are amazing!

Some of my favorite AR projects include Berlin City Walls and the Vienna street exhibitions. MyWebAR played a crucial role in making these projects accessible, allowing viewers to interact with digital art directly through their smartphones, seamlessly blending physical and virtual experiences.

What excites me the most is the potential of digital sculptures and the Spatial Tracking tool — these features are amazing, creating immersive and dynamic installations that redefine how art exists in public spaces. It’s truly fascinating to see how technology can transform urban landscapes into interactive galleries.

Did the results of using AR in art and your projects meet your expectations?

Yes, AR has exceeded expectations in terms of engagement and accessibility. It has allowed us to bring art to new audiences, particularly those who may not visit traditional galleries. The response has shown that people are eager to explore digital storytelling in public spaces, and the interactive nature of AR makes the experience more personal and memorable.

What kind of feedback do you receive from the visitors/participants of your exhibitions? Have you noticed any changes in how people perceive or interact with art after experiencing your digital works?

Visitors often describe the experience as surprising and engaging, noting that AR gives them a sense of discovery and participation rather than passive viewing. One noticeable shift is that people tend to spend more time with AR artworks, interacting and exploring different layers of the installation. This deeper engagement suggests that AR can create a more immersive and meaningful connection between the audience and the artist.

In your opinion, what does the future hold for AR in the art world? Do you see its use becoming more widespread?

I believe AR will become a fundamental part of contemporary art. As technology advances, we will see more interactive and large-scale AR installations, making art experiences more immersive. The accessibility of AR through mobile devices and soon with XR or AR glasses ensures that it will continue to grow, breaking down barriers between digital and physical spaces. Artists and curators are just beginning to explore the potential of AR, and in the future, I envision it being used in everything from public art projects to museum exhibitions and even performance art.

The AR industry is making giant steps in marketing and changing brands’ strategies more creatively. Maybe it is your time to be a part of brands’ transformation and start to create AR projects for them.

Here are some tips on how to start your successful AR journey:

Identify Your Passion and Niche
Congratulations, you are already done with point number one! AR opens a new realm of creative possibilities by blending the digital and physical worlds. It allows you to create interactive, immersive, and dynamic experiences that engage users in ways traditional media cannot. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your projects, we promise!

Develop Your Skills
Continuously improve your creative skills through courses, workshops, online tutorials, and practice. Special for all your needs we created a Learning Center, where you can find all information about webAR. Learn how to start with special guides, watch professional tutorials, get inspired by creators’ cases, and visit our online events! Not enough for you? Join our AR course.

Don’t forget to invest in the necessary tools and software to enhance your capabilities.

Build a Portfolio and Share Your Cases
Create a professional portfolio showcasing your best work. Include a variety of projects that demonstrate your range and abilities. Your portfolio is crucial for attracting clients or employers, so make it visually appealing and easy to navigate.

By the way, don’t forget that the MyWebAR platform has a Creator plan that allows you to create and store cases for non-commercial use for free for as long as you want. Perfect for your portfolio.

Also, share your cases on social media. Only after showing what you can do people will know about your possibilities and the professional skills that you have. Memorable and shareable AR experiences have the potential to go viral on social media platforms, expanding your brand’s reach and creating organic buzz. Don’t forget, that social media can find you new clients too!

Extra tip: Network with other professionals in your industry to build connections and gain exposure, it will help you to grow as a creator.

Deliver High-Quality Work
Once you secure projects, focus on delivering exceptional results to build a strong reputation. Your current projects are your success in the future. Communicate effectively with clients, manage expectations, and meet deadlines. Good communication = good results.

Stay Inspired and Creative
Continue to find inspiration in your field. Attend conferences, read books, and follow industry leaders to stay updated. Find more inspiration right now by watching our last webinars.

Experiment with new ideas and techniques to keep your work fresh and innovative. Try new extensions on our platform, share your projects, and simply ENJOY! Find more tutorials on our YouTube channel.

It’s Your Time to Shine!
If you’re considering venturing into AR, it’s essential to invest in learning the necessary tools and skills, collaborate with experts in AR development if needed, and stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. By doing so, you can harness the full creative potential of augmented reality to bring your visions to life and captivate your audience.

Good luck with your AR cases!

Meta announced that it’s shutting down the Spark AR platform on January 14, 2025. This event raises many questions: What does it mean for the industry as a whole and for AR creators who are used to creating content for specific social networks? How can they adapt to these changes? Let’s dive in.

What Might Have Led Meta to End the Project 

Since 2015, when DEVAR launched its first venture into the augmented reality (AR) industry (starting with the creation of AR books for children, with over 15 million copies sold to date, DEVAR books are now sold in 75 countries in 27 languages), we’ve witnessed many changes in the immersive technology market.

It was clear to us that both social media or messengers (Facebook/Instagram, Snap, TikTok) and tech giants (Apple, Microsoft, Google, etc.) would find their place in the world of immersive technologies and certainly set the tone in some directions. Without going into a long history, it’s evident that a significant number of AR creators grew up using tools like Spark AR.

However, if we look beyond just one social network, Meta has long positioned itself as one of the ambassadors of augmented and virtual reality. The events and news of this year clearly indicate that one of Meta’s prominent directions is the concentration of efforts on immersive spaces consumed through AR/XR glasses (recall the announcement about Meta’s purchase of a stake in EssilorLuxottica to expand collaboration with Ray-Ban).

Step by step, Meta is preparing users for a new reality: an immersive space that will overlay the real world with various layers. And we are expected to consume this world through AR/XR glasses. By the way, the prototype of Meta’s first consumer AR glasses is likely to be shown at the September 25th conference.

Does this mean that the time of AR filters has passed? Unlikely.

Is a shift in consumption patterns being prepared? Obviously, yes.

Do AR creators have time to prepare and expand their professional opportunities? Absolutely.

Expanding AR Capabilities Through webXR Technologies 

Clearly, the technological race in the release of AR and XR glasses and the expectations from them have set a trend in the development of content for immersive devices. A recent survey conducted among MyWebAR platform users showed that 22% of users are already creating content for AR and XR devices, and another 52% plan to do so in the near future for devices such as Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest.

As in any ecosystem, the immersive space creates a colossal amount of opportunities. Today, there are millions of people on the market with professional AR creation skills (and this includes not only programmers but also representatives of creative professions such as designers, marketers, product managers, etc.). Today, a huge number of businesses (from SMBs to Fortune 500 corporations) have already implemented or are in the process of implementing AR/XR technologies into various processes (from training sessions and AR instructions for new employees to campaigns aimed at increasing customer engagement and loyalty).

Just as the internet once enabled the emergence of new entities (such as e-commerce or remote interaction), AR/XR technologies are the foundation of a new environment where we can only imagine how things will unfold, but we can certainly say that many new economic elements will be formed there.

Every business will ask how to enter this environment, just as it once asked, “Do I need a website?” Well, webXR technology will answer a similar and relevant question today.

Over 200,000 users of our AR content creation platform MyWebAR (and the number continues to grow) are already creating mini versions of spaces and assets that will become layers of a holistic immersive world. It is also valuable that all AR experiences are cross-platform and can be integrated into any website, app, or social media. This means they won’t disappear unless the content owner or creator decides to delete or stop them.

New Opportunities for AR Creators 

New opportunities open up for talented and creative people with each new turn in the development of technologies and the tools to use them. The “Blue Ocean” opens up for all who are ready to go beyond using only social media to create AR/XR experiences, those who are preparing to take a strong position in the new world of immersive spaces, and who do not forget to leverage the powerful capabilities of Generative AI to enhance both their own and their clients’ experiences.

This is what drives us every day in developing and improving the creative space of MyWebAR.com for the self-realization of everyone who wants to be part of the immersive technology world. No code for non-tech folks, advanced level for code lovers. Generative AI for working with design or creating customized solutions through text-to-code. More than 300 features and a constantly growing library of plugins and partner integrations. It sounds like a fairy tale, but it’s what opens the doors to the world of immersive technologies for every creative talent.

We are happy to welcome everyone to our community! And although every user is special to us, we are especially ready to offer special conditions today for Spark AR creators to start in our ecosystem.

The passion for technology and creativity is what unites all AR creators. Welcome to DEVAR!

Anna Belova, Andrei Komissarov & DEVAR (MyWebAR) team

Michael Voskoboynik, an innovative educator, has been integrating cutting-edge technologies like AR, VR, and AI into his teaching. After discovering his work through several publications and learning about his participation in ISTELive 2024 in Denver (CO), we reached out for a brief interview. Here, Michael shares insights into his projects and the transformative impact of immersive technologies in education.

Michael Voskoboynik

Technology Coordinator and Technology Teacher

Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey as a Technology Teacher? 

I was born and raised in Ukraine and immigrated to the United States in 1992. I was a Math teacher prior to emigration. I was fortunate to be able to continue my teaching career after my arrival to the US. In addition to Math, I began teaching Technology. I developed a passion for using technology to discover family history, and put together various projects that encouraged my students to delve into their ancestors’ stories. I created a Holocaust-related project known as “Virtual Trip to Eastern Europe”, where students conduct research on their relatives’ Holocaust experience, and present them in a way that makes their stories come alive. This project evolved into creation of our school’s award-winning interactive Holocaust museum. 

Over the past decade, my students have been selected to present their projects at various conferences and events around the world.

When did you first encounter AR technology and what was your initial reaction, especially in the context of working with students?

Well, I’ve been attending various EdTech conferences, probably since I started teaching Technology. Therefore, if there is anything new on the horizon, I always try to learn about it as soon as I can. When Aurasma came around in 2010s, we immediately started using it.

For example, here’s is slide from one of my presentation in 2016:

On the right side of the image, there is a photo of my grandparents’ wedding in 1928. When we aimed our phone camera at this photo, a video of an old-time Jewish wedding appeared on the screen. 

We also used Merge Cube for AR projects within its own environment and with CoSpaces. My goal was (and is) that student would create their own content for those AR projects, instead of using (playing with) what’s available. We began students’ 3D scanning at that time, animated 3D scans and inserted them in various AR projects.

The simplest AR program for us to use 3D scans was Microsoft 3D viewer, which was part of Windows. We also enjoyed using Adobe Aero.

And then MyWebAR came around for us last year

What inspired you to integrate AR technology into your educational programs?

Integrating AR technology into our educational programs allows students create immersive and interactive learning experiences. This approach helps them visualize complex concepts, engage more deeply with the material, and retain information more effectively.

Can you share some of your favorite projects that have used AR at your school?

We have been working with projects in the field for over three years. Before MyWebAR, we already had a number of projects with creative ways to incorporate virtual and augmented reality into the learning process.

Last year, at ISTE23 Live in Philadelphia I discovered MyWebAR. I immediately loved how the program worked and shortly after coming back home from ISTE I contacted MyWebAR PR department. In a few weeks an Educational platform for us was set up.

During the last school year my students in grades 4 – 8 enjoyed creating with MyWebAR. Additionally, we shared the program with our partner school in Israel, and students there joined us in creating collaborative projects.

Below are some of the most interesting designs from last school year: AR Masks, Avatar2Gether Book – Collaborative project with our partner school in Israel, Students’ favorite heroes AR Book Example.

And this is my personal favorite. I created this for my college classmate, who is currently a teacher in Ukraine. I generated a 3D avatar of her, with a shirt in Ukrainian colors and Ukrainian music background. I also talked to her about the MyWebAR program and she became very interested in learning more about it.

Tell us about your experience participating in ISTELive in June 2024. Can you tell us about your project that you prepared with your students? What was the reaction from the audience? 

This was our 8th consecutive trip to present at ISTE, and each year we are preparing something new to share with the conference attendees. This time, the theme of our presentation was: Unleashing Creativity: Generating, Animating and Coding 3D Student Avatars for Interactive School Projects. An integral part of the presentation were MyWebAR projects. Of course, for most, if not all, attendees that participated in our two sessions, it was something totally new and unique. We definitely saw a lot of excitement in the reaction from the audience.

Have the results of using AR in your educational programs met your expectations? If possible, please tell us about these results and how they benefited the students.

Yes, the results of using AR in our educational programs have exceeded my expectations. Students have shown increased engagement and improved understanding of complex concepts. AR’s immersive experiences make learning more interactive and enjoyable, helping students retain information better. Additionally, it has fostered collaboration and creativity, as students explore and interact with the material in new and exciting ways.

What do you think is the future of AR and VR in education?

I think it is already widespread. The addition of AI has the potential to revolutionize learning. AR, VR and AI are set to play a significant role in the evolution of education.

Welcome to an exclusive interview with Jean-François Réveillard, an artist and pioneer in the field of digital and augmented reality art. Known for his innovative approach and his involvement in various mediums, Jean-François shares his journey, insights, and the future of AR in the art world. He creates his AR projects on the MyWebAR platform, showcasing the cutting-edge potential of this technology. The Future of Art on AR and AI is unfolding before us, and we have the privilege of exploring it with this creative genius. Let’s delve into the mind of Jean-François Réveillard.

Jean-François Réveillard, also known as JfR, is an artist living in Switzerland, dividing his time between Zürich, Paris, and the world. JfR creates and develops concepts in the spirit of being here and now, using Japanese calligraphy techniques for painting and drawing. Since the 1980s, he has been involved in digital media, video art, virtual worlds, and now 3D printing. In 1997, he founded one of the first webTVs in Europe. JfR likes to define himself as a “Cross Media Picture Maker.”

Could you please tell us a bit about yourself and your creative journey?

I like to define myself as a cross-media picture maker and part of the Post-Contemporary movement. Since childhood, I have been writing, drawing, and making movies. After studying science (biochemistry) and art at the École du Louvre, I began using technology mixed with classical mediums. My journey started with video art in 1981, followed by creating web TV in Europe in 1996/97. I also pioneered virtual worlds, making exhibitions and streaming in Second Life since 2007. I continued with 3D printing and now explore AI and AR. My daily artwork includes drawing and writing.

I consult on the pedagogical aspects of art and technology for the Greek School Ellino Germaniki within European Union projects and exhibit worldwide. My art space in Engelberg, Switzerland, serves as a laboratory for testing new concepts and approaches to digital art. As Armen Avanessian (Austrian philosopher, literary theorist, and political theorist – editorial note) describes, we are in the era of Post-Contemporary.

“The first thesis of the post-contemporary is that time changes. We are not just living in a new or accelerated time, but the time itself – the direction of the time – has changed. We are no longer faced with a linear time, in this time when the past was followed by the present and then the future. The opposite is true: the future takes place before the present, time comes from the future. If people feel that time is out of control, or that time no longer makes sense, or is not what it used to be, the reason is, I think, that they have – that we all have – difficulty living in such a speculative time or within a speculative temporality.”

When did you first encounter AR technology, and what was your initial reaction?

My first encounter was with QR codes used as simple links. I quickly thought of using them with video and was fascinated by the new dimension added to objects, even if initially it was just for price lists or website links. After trying several platforms and creating my own coding, I searched for tools that synchronized with my concepts. The main feeling was about the added dimension, crossing with reality, and using smartphones. I was and am very excited about this new opportunity to blend reality, especially with the introduction of artificial intelligence. It feels like adding a new layer, a new field for my creative brain, directly to the viewers.

What sparked your interest in using AR in art?

Digital art needs to find new way of delivery, we are outside definitively of the grotto. A new state of things is under progress with AR headset, augmented reality, artificial intelligence. Along is history Art uses a new brush of century to stay connected and to share the best of human creation. The debates is not if it’s exist or not if it’s good or not it’s time to use it in order to be inside and to stay in civilization under progress that humanity build and dream about to be better all together.

How long have you been exploring immersive technologies, including AR, in your creative work?

My first official public exhibition with AR was in June 2022 during Basel art week. After testing several forms and research before for one year I have created series made of 3Dprint sculpture and pictures of it inside nature, each picture was with augmented reality video in situ. Before i have built many virtual immersive virtual world projects, including art, education, and science since 2007 connected with installation.

Could you share some of your favorite artistic projects that have utilized AR, specifically on the MyWebAR platform?

I find that augmented reality applied to street art is amazing specially on big building.

One of my actual research projects is about mixing virtual world powered by Augmented reality, particularly inside a museum about story of Myrtis and a Virtual Museum dedicated to my AI and AR concept.

And of course, my Ink drawing powered by AI and AR series, don’t miss my next installation during Zurich Art Fait 2024 in Congress Haus 11-13 October 2024 presenting some.

Have the outcomes of using AR in art and your projects met your expectations? If possible, please elaborate on these outcomes.

The outcomes have exceeded my expectations, particularly since I use AR without an application, making it easier for viewers. The efficient anchoring of various sources and the use of a single QR code for all installation content have been game-changers in my approach. Most collectors, once they understand they can have the same AR effect in their space and show it to friends and visitors, are eager to buy or exhibit it. Testing with their own smartphones is essential, and the lack of OS barriers is key. Clear explanation panels are important to guide most people, as QR codes are generally known for adding information about artwork (price, website, etc.).

Have you noticed any changes in how people perceive or interact with art after experiencing your digital works?

My artwork, which includes handmade ink drawings, the use of artificial intelligence, and a mix of nature and reality, adds a new dimension and animation to the pieces, changing how most art lovers and collectors view art. The public is generally not close to digital, virtual, AR, VR, or AI technologies. But such artwork demonstrates a new way of seeing, thinking, receive digital art, the handmade drawing base is not just a machine, or a database manipulate by computer its art made by human brain first, and a new dimension added controlled by the artist. I have many discussions about and have seen many people changing their view about all this new tech after experiment with my immersive artwork.

In your opinion, what does the future hold for AR in the art sphere? Do you see its usage becoming more prevalent as part of the future of art on AR and AI?

Art is a dimension added to reality by the artist; it’s a kind of augmented reality through different canvases, and digital is the new canvas. No canvas destroys another; it just extends the field and gives a new angle to reality. Many evolutions are needed, and I am confident we will find solutions for protecting content and other aspects. I am sure we will develop very efficient and lightweight glasses systems. I look forward to using QR codes embedded in reality with devices like Vision Pro, but I have more hope for simple glasses devices. It’s just a matter of time. Many new fields in art will open soon, and as an artist, I work hard to extend and give more space to my creations and share them.

Thank you for joining us in this insightful conversation with Jean-François Réveillard. His pioneering work in integrating AR and AI into art showcases the endless possibilities and future of digital creativity. We are thrilled that he agreed to share more about his projects utilizing augmented reality. They undoubtedly inspire us and the entire MyWebAR creator community. We look forward to seeing his upcoming projects and installations that continue to push the boundaries of art and technology.

A new article by Anna Belova, the founder and CEO of DEVAR, was recently published in Forbes. You can read it here. We are delighted to share the text with you in our blog, which we have enhanced with some nice visuals.

In a newsletter for marketers, I recently read about a trend where most public relations (PR) professionals in 2024 plan to integrate immersive augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies into their PR campaigns. This is supported by some interesting business statistics. For example, interacting with products that feature AR experiences can result in a 94% increase in conversions. Also, according to an Adweek report, 71% of consumers said they are more likely to recommend a brand if it utilizes VR technology in its marketing.

In this article, I will explore this topic further. In addition to reviewing various trends and research, a key source of insight has been customer surveys from my company’s AR content creation platform. This platform, used by thousands of creators and brands, has proved to be an excellent resource for assessing the applicability of AR technology in PR.

Based on our and other companies’ data, here are the top industries for using AR applications to enhance PR.

1. Retail

One major application for this industry is AR “try-ons” for cosmetics, hairstyles, clothes, shoes, jewelry, furniture, wall paint shades and many more. A survey conducted by Goodfirms showed that 71.5% of consumers are eager for the opportunity to use AR technology when purchasing goods.

There are numerous successful cases:

• According to Lindsay Colameo, Estée Lauder’s virtual try-on technology has been incredibly successful, resulting in a 67% increase in conversion rates and 2.5 times more time spent on the website.

• Adidas incorporated AR QR codes in their footwear packaging, offering customers interactive experiences and virtual try-ons, achieving a 50% boost in brand engagement.

• Ikea implemented AR-enabled QR codes, allowing customers to visualize furniture in their space before purchasing, resulting in a 75% increase in online sales.

It appears that customers are also prepared to spend more when AR is involved. Brands that have embraced AR have seen a significant impact on their bottom line. In fact, studies indicate that consumers are willing to pay up to 40% more for a product that can be experienced through AR.

2. Marketing

Marketing is another significant area for AR, spanning from product packaging and book covers to loyalty programs. Beyond retail, the restaurant industry, automotive sector and development projects have actively and successfully employed augmented reality. According to AR marketing statistics, “29% of media agencies are buying both AR and VR ads for their clients,” and “seven out of ten media planning and buying agencies want to use more AR and VR in their digital campaigns.”

An essential consideration for marketers and PR professionals is that AR can facilitate interaction with customers through physical products, making tangible goods pivotal to the digital realm. While much marketing discussion centers on digital versions of products, such as clothing and footwear, it’s important not to overlook the significance of physical products. These can act as conduits to the digital world. I believe the widespread adoption of specialized AR glasses could shift consumer habits significantly, akin to the smartphone revolution. This could mean that products lacking digital content may become less desirable to consumers.

3. Product AR

When AR becomes an integral part of a product, such as in the event industry, children’s toys, books, and movies, it also extends to art. Artists can not only create physical works but enhance them with digital content. For example, according to the experience of my company and our many international partners, the circulation of augmented reality books is significantly higher than that of regular books. Lego and Kinder Surprise also use AR as part of their products for children.

Events and exhibitions are increasingly utilizing AR for navigation and immersive experiences. We can only imagine what kind of industry explosion will happen when the movie industry adopts AR technology; just imagine the creatures from Stranger Things coming out of the screen and into your home. That’s a whole other level of production! And for PR, it could mean virtually limitless opportunities for movie promotion.

Challenges And How To Overcome Them

Certainly, as with any innovation implementation, there are challenges that PR departments will face. Implementing and scaling immersive technologies, specifically AR, requires the right talent, which currently is not internal for many companies. An absence of a long-term database and accumulated experience can also slow progress.

Seek to build up your PR team by teaching not only how to utilize AR, but also how to think outside the box. Otherwise, projects risk becoming monotonous. PR departments should be pioneers and experimenters. It’s also important to go through the stages of acclimatizing your users to any new type of interaction with your brand.

What Can Be Done Right Now

We don’t need to wait for the mass adoption of AR glasses or headsets. The transition of AR technology into the web space could eliminate the need for numerous apps, facilitating easier access to AR experiences. Additionally, it allows for the execution of marketing campaigns through web-compatible channels.

Based on the trends we are seeing, I believe PR teams will increasingly embrace immersive technologies as they become more integrated across various industries. The growing popularity of AR is undeniable: services for creating 3D models (including those utilizing AI), animating, and placing objects in AR environments are expanding rapidly, thanks to user-friendly no-code platforms. These platforms can allow individuals without expertise in programming, design or 3D modeling to create augmented reality projects. In just a few minutes, an ordinary PR manager can assemble AR projects independently.

If you are training your PR team to incorporate AR into their toolkit, here are some applications to keep in mind:

• Press Releases: Incorporating AR presentations of projects and product tests for journalists requires no special setup. Simply add a QR code to your text, and journalists can view your project in 3D.

• Social Networks: Your social media accounts can benefit from these same mechanics by including links to AR projects. Additionally, you can post photo and video content that showcases your projects in AR.

• Industry Exhibitions And Conferences: In my experience, incorporating a QR code in handouts or speaker presentations can significantly enhance engagement.

• Press Conferences And Tours: Consider also adding AR to your media kits for these engagements.

These are becoming essential skills for PR managers to acquire in the near future — the ability to work with immersive technologies. More on this topic will be discussed in my next article.

Anna Belova, Founder & CEO of DEVAR, a Phygital Company. Forbes 30 Under 30. Tech Entrepreneur. Expert in AR technology.