What Is Augmented Reality Technology? What Can It Offer the Event Industry?

May 19, 2013

You have likely heard the buzz around Google’s Glass lately, but Google is not the only company diving into the augmented reality arena. Augmented reality technology is the integration of computer generated data and images with real-world video and information in real –time.

One of the simplest and earliest uses of augmented reality was the use of the yellow first-down line in NFL televised games. Since this many industries have implemented augmented reality technology to enhance their customer experiences.

Barbie has developed an augmented reality mirror that allows children to put pretend makeup on their own reflection. Other companies are developing augmented reality apps that will allow shoppers to view a couch or other piece of furniture in their own living room before making a purchase.  

The Royal Challengers Bangalore, an Indian cricket team, recently offered its fans enhanced feature event tickets that allowed them to see the stadium in 3-D, get local parking and traffic information, shop the team store and view event highlights.

Just last year, the New York Giants used augmented reality to send their fans virtual Super Bowl rings.

It won’t be long before augmented reality applications are used on a daily basis. The opportunities for the event industry are many.  Just imagine your attendees being able to hold their phone up and see on their screen what sessions are currently taking place and where. To be able to scan the exhibit floor and see in seconds where the exhibitors who carry the products they are interested in are located.  

Your attendees could scan a 2-D image of the show floor even before the event starts and see a 3D version of the floor. And when the show floor closes they can scan the local area to see where the closest after party is being held. The list could go on.

Keep your ears and eyes tuned for upcoming developments in augmented reality that can enrich attendee and exhibitor experiences at your event.

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Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact