Augmented Reality for Museums
At Guru Experience Co., we’re on a mission to inspire museums to engage with their visitors where people are most comfortable seeking information– on their smartphones. One of our essential tools used in achieving this is Augmented Reality (AR), a technology that has only become more powerful and widely accepted in the past few years. It is our team’s passion to dive deep into the possibilities AR presents, and how it can empower museums to create immersive and unforgettable experiences.
What is, and why use, AR in Museums?
Augmented Reality, abbreviated as AR, is a technology that blends the digital world with the physical world. It superimposes digital content onto a user’s view of the natural world, enhancing what we see, hear, and feel. This immersion captivates visitors with surprise and delight to deepen their connection with the content. It can also help further an institution’s mission in the following ways:
- Increase Accessibility: AR technology can enhance accessibility for all visitors. It provides additional information in various formats, such as audio, video, or text, accommodating different learning styles. This inclusivity ensures that museums are accessible to a broader audience, including those with learning differences or who are neurodivergent.
- Attract Younger Audiences: Museums are increasingly looking to attract younger audiences, and AR is a powerful tool for achieving this goal. Millennials and Gen Zare digital natives and drawn to technology-driven experiences. AR apps can bridge the generational gap, making museum visits appealing to a wider demographic.
- Deepen Understanding: AR provides in-depth information and context about exhibits. Visitors can explore details, stories, and historical backgrounds that might not fit on traditional placards. This depth of understanding enriches the visitor experience and encourages a deeper appreciation of the story, while keeping the actual art or artifact front and center.
- Provide Interactivity: AR adds an element of interactivity to museum visits. Visitors can actively engage with exhibits, play interactive games, and even participate in scavenger hunts. This hands-on approach makes learning fun and memorable.
- Stay Relevant: In a digital age, museums must adapt to evolving visitor expectations. AR technology positions museums as forward-thinking and adaptable. It demonstrates a commitment to providing contemporary digital experiences and meeting visitors where they are.
- Encourage Repeat Visits: Visitors are more likely to return to a museum that creates unforgettable moments. With interactive AR experiences, museums can update content and provide fresh experiences, turning one-time visitors into repeat patrons.
What makes AR genuinely magical is its ability to bring art, history, and science to life. Whether it’s bolstering the theme of a painting, displaying interactive 3D models, or reviving historical figures to narrate stories, AR adds a layer of wonder to any museum’s story.
