In addition to being aware of the business advantages of augmented reality (AR) and designing software to make the most of it, companies should also consider the possible risks of AR in the early stages of preparation to ensure effective implementation.
The coalescence of the physical and digital worlds brought about by AR, along with the reshaping of our view of reality, also promises to reshape the real world in which we reside. Emerging is the implementation of AR technology. Organizations are intending to integrate technology into their operations, be it for their staff or consumers, and prioritize overcoming these hazards of AR.
1. Information Overload
The invention of the Internet, accompanied by social media, has led to an exponential increase in the generation and exchange of information. The spread of mobile technology has made it possible for people to access vast quantities of data from different outlets, which would only be better with wearable AR technology such as AR smart glasses. This information overload may cause stress, indecisiveness, and may lead to inaction that defeats AR's aim of enabling quick action through real-time information. The regulation of the amount of data that can be accessed through various AR applications should be a key issue for organizations seeking to apply this technology.
2. Perception Impairment
Although AR glasses are a crucial component of technology, they are also most likely to compromise people's protection. AR glasses and lenses created by under-standard design and manufacturing processes can potentially cause the wearer's impaired vision and may have profound implications depending on the application. Ensuring that AR equipment complies with the highest levels of quality and safety would ensure the technology is used without subjecting users to AR hazards.
3. Distraction
While AR can provide useful information to users either in a hands-free or hand-held manner, it may sometimes serve as a distraction. Employees newly equipped with technology may find that AR is more of a distraction and a hindrance than the enabler it purports to be. Distractions caused by AR can be extremely hazardous when used for tasks such as driving or surgery. To avoid the hazards of AR-induced distraction, organizations should train users well to ensure a seamless transition from non-AR to AR-enabled operations.
4. Privacy
AR devices work by first capturing the real-world scene, analyzing it, and then overlaying extra visual details or 'enhancing' reality. The processing of data is, therefore, an integral part of the functioning of the AR. AR devices collect data from users of the tools and people viewed via the devices. This may not be the best way to maintain personal privacy, which will undoubtedly be impacted as AR gains mass acceptance. Developing ways to protect individual privacy amid the widespread spread of AR would be a challenge for organizations.
5. Security
As with any other connected technology, AR is vulnerable to security threats and unauthorized access to hacker attacks and malware. Such attacks can lead to denial of service or an overlay of incorrect information, leading to severe, potentially catastrophic consequences. For example, a hacker can misdirect a driver using an AR-powered navigation system and trigger accidents. While organizations should be excited about the possibility of using AR for different applications, they should not overlook the real-life dangers of AR. Failure to resolve potential hazards associated with technology at an early stage can lead to significant delays and problems during the full-scale implementation of the technology. It can prove counter-productive to the purpose of AR, which is to make things simpler.
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