What is Web AR?
“Web AR” is a term given to augmented reality experiences that may well be accessed in a browser directly without one needing to download any further program. 
Google Search AR allows users to interact with the image search essentially on the browser.
Based on mobile and wearable devices camera and sensors, users can just opening a URL, and enter into the AR content. AR experiences are created on web and this platform uses HTML, CSS, JavaScript and WebGL as means of creating scenes.
Pros of Web AR
1. Ease of Access
This is perhaps one of the most important strengths attributed to web augmented reality because it is easily accessible. This is an improvement over previous platforms in that users do not need to download an App, but can experience AR on the spot by clicking on a link, or scanning a QR code.
This makes it easier for and increases the chances of more users coming to try out the AR experience.
2. Cross-Platform Compatibility
Web Augmented Reality is by nature multiplatform, we only need an up-to-date web browser to use a Web AR application.
This ranges with smartphones, tablets, even the desktop computers which are endowed with the web cam. This broad compatibility makes sure more people can see the AR content.
3. Lower Development Costs
It can, however, be noted that developing web AR experiences can prove to be cheaper as compared to building app based AR. Compared to mobile AR, web AR uses entirely traditional web entities, allowing application developers to design and publish AR content without mastering unfamiliar tools.
Moreover, it is not necessary to create lots of versions for distinct operating systems of mobile devices.
Cons of Web AR
1. Limited Performance
Web AR experiences are usually affected by the performance of the web browser since they are deployed on the web. Indeed, modern browsers have significant capabilities, but they may not is not as efficient as native applications, especially in case with complex AR interactions based on the rendered 3D models and real-time tracking.
2. Dependency on Internet Connection
The most common interaction of Web AR experiences is that they need an active connection to the internet for the download and interaction on AR content.
This dependency can be a drawback especially when connecting to the internet is an issue, or when a user prefers offline mode.
3. Fewer Advanced Features
Web AR may not possess some of the functionalities it is possible to find in app-based AR; detailed environment recognition, complex tracking options, and connection with gadgets’ special functions.
This is not ideal since it can restrict the detail and variety of AR that can be delivered in a web browser based environment.
Examples of Web AR
8th Wall
8th Wall is one of the most popular and powerful web AR tools designed to let developers build and launch AR applications inside the web browser. Applications like LEGO and Sony have incorporated the use of 8th Wall in powerfully launching their web AR campaigns which can be accessed by anyone.
Google Search AR
Another one is augmented reality where Google has instituted it in its search where users can see 3D models of animals, objects or historical artifacts from the search page.
Compared to this, this implementation of the web AR makes it convenient to engage with the AR content even if one does not have a separate AR app.
What is App-Based AR?
Mobile-AR refers to the consumption of augmented reality within an application that has been downloaded and installed on a smart-device specifically. The clients will require download and installing applications that stores the AR content to their devices.
Pokémon GO is an example of how app-based AR can make fictional Pokémon come alive in real life.
They are frequently written to take idle advantage of hardware and software specific features of the device in question and thus offer a much more enhanced view of AR.
Pros of App-Based AR
1. High Performance
AR based on application software can fully extract the function of the device’s hardware, providing higher real-time performance and smoother AR effects.
Native apps will also allow the use of devices’ processing power, graphic card and sensors to provide rich and seamless interactions with AR.
2. Advanced Features
AR dependent upon applications can avail features and characteristics which are not achievable through internet browsers.
Moreover, it made an improvement in the more complex environmental sensing, identifying different objects and connecting with other gadget unique functions like GPS, accelerometers, and gyroscopes. This makes it possible for one to develop more advanced as well as engaging AR interfaces.
3. Offline Functionality
One of the downfalls that web AR has, app-based AR does not necessarily have to be fully functioning only with the internet connection; thus, users can fully benefit from it even when they have no internet connection.
This is particularly useful for the application that needs to be made accessible over the long distance or for the users who prefer offline use.
Cons of App-Based AR
1. Higher Development Costs
Web AR can be faster and cheaper compared to creating Augmented Reality application for a mobile device. iOS is specifically designed for Apple devices while Android is for devices running on Google operating system; therefore, it is easy for a developer to create two different versions of the same application. Also, the cost of could increment with the high maintenance and updating of the app.
2. User Friction
Asking the users to download and install an additional app is always inconvenient and some of the users will be discouraged from accessing further AR content.
This additional step might decrease the number of users willing to try the AR experience which is not good for one-time or short-term projects.
3. Limited Cross-Platform Compatibility
AR enforced through apps fixed on distinct mobile applications retains several disadvantages that stem from the general use of software applications on smartphones.
Ios and Android both are available in maximum numbers of mobiles, whereas creating different apps for different platforms are limitations with respect to reaching maximum of the people.
Examples of App-Based AR
Pokémon GO
Pokémon GO is still one of the most effectively used app-based holographic-reality experiences that enable players to search for digital Pokémon in the real world. GPS, camera, and other tracking features make this app engaging and fun to use a tool for gaming.
IKEA Place
The referenced application, IKEA Place, is a marvelous tool for the arrangement of the Furniture Manufacturing company IKEA’s products at home.
It applies the best augmented reality technology to properly place the models of the furniture for the user so that they can make proper decisions when buying.
Comparative Analysis
1. Ease of Access and Usability
Web AR
Since Web AR is availed online, it has the advantage of being easily accessible and easy to use. The general format that the sets of experiences can come in is a link or QR code that can be clicked, and this does away with download and installation.
This minimises conflict and entice the user into active interactions with AR content, especially when they are one or few and brief.
App-Based AR
App-based AR is a type of application where the client has to download and install an application for the experience which adds to the experience a step that most users might frown at.
But when installed, app-based AR could present a more refined and less complicated environment for the users featuring easy to navigate interface and possibility to incorporate all the features of the device including its hardware and software layers.
2. Performance and Capabilities
Web AR
As a result, Web AR is somewhat restricted by the capability of web browsers. Modern browsers are quite capable, but they aren’t as performant as native apps, which can negatively impact AR that relies on heavy resource usage.
Web AR is capable to provide relatively sufficient interaction for the simple AR applications but may not be enough for the complex, requiring more rendering and real-time tracking.
App-Based AR
In the case of using AR in applications, it is possible to take the most out from the capabilities of the device, as those applications work faster and respond better.
Native applications can result to smoother and more in depth AR experience and can support such functions such as environmental understanding, object recognition among others, and functions usually supported by the device.
3. Development and Maintenance
Web AR
Creating web AR experiences may also be less expensive and easier because it use standard Web technologies. The use of AR content does not require developers to learn new programming languages or frameworks so that effective and efficient development of content can be executed.
Web AR experiences are also naturally more versatile and, therefore, do not require the creation of different versions for different operating systems.
App-Based AR
Deciding on app-based AR experience is relatively costly as well as time-consuming as the apps have to be built separately for iOS and Android. This means that one requires to be proficient in both scheme and other programming languages as well as development environments.
The expenses do not end here, for one has to continuously update the app and sustain it which is a costly affair in comparison to the simple web development.
4. User Engagement and Retention
Web AR
Web AR is appropriate for short-term use and is limited to a single experience including use in advertising or for a product launch. More users get into the AR experience since it is easy to access but there are few elements that retain the users in the longer-run.
App-Based AR
As to AR, it can present some deeper and more absorbing content for users turning them to the app more often.
Additional options like the possibility to update content based on user choice, using push notifications, and application’s interface with other apps may contribute to the success of the application in terms of user loyalty.
Yet the very first obstacle which is the process of download and installation may limit the number of people who are ready to interact with the app.
Use Cases and Best Practices
1. Retail and E-commerce
Web AR
Web AR is quite suitable for the retail and e-commerce domains where easy and instant availability is the key. Web AR can be used in virtual fittings, product demonstrations, and advergaming or ads.
For instance, a clothing retailer can apply web AR so that customers can witness how particular clothes will look on them without the installation of an application.
App-Based AR
Mobile app based augmented reality in retail can be fresher, richer and can offer more specifics as compared to e-commerce.
Home furniture sellers such as IKEA should engage app-based augmented reality to enable customers to see how their furniture will look in their homes down to scaling and positioning of the furniture.
Client information can also be stored for future use and provide recommendations based on the users’ characteristics.
2. Marketing and Advertising
Web AR
Web AR is best suited to marketing or advertising campaigns that need to be easily accessed by the public. Marketers can design AR experiences that can come activated just by scanning a QR code on a pack of a specific product or even on a bill board. It can help to enhance the users’ interest and generate the desired calls to action without the need for an app download.
App-Based AR
Despite that, the App-based AR is more versatile and can be incorporated into the marketing activities of higher complexity and interactivity.
Mobile applications can entail loyalty programmes or points system within an application in which the user will have to continue interacting with the brand.
The application also has the ability to give a detailed analysis of the user activity and hence enhance the marketing techniques.
3. Education and Training
Web AR
Web AR can be applied to educational and training purposes when it is necessary to have an easy and efficient access. Web AR can be employed by learning institutions in delivering resourceful frames for students to learn from their devices.
Further, it is easy to apply web AR in training programs such as practice and demonstrations that participants may find convenient.
App-Based AR
Comparing to the web-based AR it can be stated that the app-based AR can provide the more broad-spectrum and engaging educational and training experiences. An app can be more informative and engaging offering misc detailed simulations, exercises, and feedback.
For instance, the medical training apps that help the students to practice performing surgeries can incorporate AR that explains how to do operations with real-time instructions.
4. Entertainment and Gaming
Web AR
Web AR is an excellent application for quick and funny media and gaming interaction. It is possible to develop web AR games that the targeted brands can enable through a simple QR code scan or a link.
Such experiences can then be turned into promotional advertisements or used to encourage people to go on social media and post about your product.
App-Based AR
Full-mouth AR is best suited for the more advanced and intricate forms of entertainment and gaming applications.
Some of the examples of the currently trending mobile applications that take advantage of such AR platforms include Pokémon GO, which provides the players with well-defined tasks and will always have its players coming back for more.
In general, game mechanics and AR based on applications may yield better graphics, quicker responses, and better connections between other elements of a game.
Conclusion
Web AR and app-based AR both have their pros and cons and should be used in specific manners depending on the application type.
Some advantages of the Web AR include, accessibility, a cross-device compatibility, and low cost and as such, Web AR is best suited for simple, one shot engagements and big reaching initiative.
AR through an app provides higher performance, more features, and a better engagement level from the users, which is ideal for complex and interactive applications.
Therefore, web AR could be preferable over app-based AR depending on your requirement, aim and available tools.
However, they are both valuable in the AR ecosystem and organizations can utilize what each platform has to offer to design successful AR experiences.
New uses and further improvements of the AR technology can be expected in the near future that would improve ways on how we interface with the digital world.
Thank you for this well-written and informative post. The way you explained the details was very helpful and made the topic much more approachable. I appreciate the effort you put into creating such valuable content.
Great post! The information was clear and very helpful. Thanks for sharing.