Introduction:
** As we approach a new era of interactivity, the boundaries between augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and other immersive technologies continue to blur. In 2024, software and hardware developers pushed the limits of user experience (UX) and built the scaffolding for the next wave of interactive experiences. This article explores some of the unsung heroes behind these technological advancements. **Revolutionizing Interactive Experiences
** While the Apple Vision Pro may not have become the iPhone of AR, 2024 saw significant strides in UX development and a fresh jolt of energy for augmented and virtual experiences. The next wave of headsets, set to hit the market in 2025 and 2026, will benefit from these advancements. **Headspace: Calming the Mind with High-Tech Meditation
** For those seeking a high-tech way to calm down, Headspace XR offers guided mindfulness exercises in AR/VR. This platform leads users through movement and breathing patterns within an immersive, ethereal landscape – the largest open-world experience on the Quest platform outside of gaming. With over a dozen exercises available, users can practice self-care and learn valuable lessons for managing stress in their daily lives. **Niantic: Digitizing Our World One Scan at a Time
** Niantic's innovative approach to building a 3D map of the world has removed one significant bottleneck from AR development. The company's tool, Scaniverse, enables users to create detailed 3D scans of spaces in mere minutes using their smartphones or tablets – without the need for special tools like lidar. These scans can be directly exported to Unity, empowering developers to craft immersive AR experiences. **PGA Tour and Work & Co: Bringing Golf into the Digital Age
** The PGA Tour app developed by Work & Co transforms golf into a real-time, 3D model within your living room. This revolutionary experience tracks the flight of the ball across the hole, offering an immersive perspective that's unlike watching on television. It's as if golf has been turned into a living board game – an innovative take on a beloved sport. **PxE Holographic Imaging: Unlocking Depth in Digital Images
** PxE challenges traditional thinking about camera capabilities by adding a holographic encoder to semiconductor sensors. This innovative technology transforms waveforms of light into depth maps, with potential applications spanning AR, self-driving vehicles, and more. The company is currently in talks with top camera chip manufacturers regarding adoption. **The Walt Disney Company: Making Superheroes Out of Us All
** The What If…? – An Immersive Story experience from Disney transports users into an adventure. Beginning in the real world, Marvel characters drop in through AR to lure you into a journey across VR dimensions – one that's as engaging as some films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. **The companies behind these innovative technologies are among the honorees in Fast Company’s Next Big Things in Tech awards for 2024. See the full list of winners and learn more about the methodology behind their selection.