Augmented reality for events and fairs: Real Examples

AR/VR

Idris

4 Min

Jan 28, 2025

AR (Augmented Reality) in events is all about integrating virtual elements into the real world, making the experience more engaging and dynamic. For example, at an event, your smartphone or AR glasses would allow you to see elements invisible to the naked eye; from an outside perspective, you might just be staring blankly into the air, but for you, you're seeing fun 3D elements that you can interact with all around you. AR experiences blend the digital world with the physical one, creating a more interactive and fun experience for attendees.

Events like trade shows and ones held by companies to showcase to investors and partners what they’re investing in can often be seen as a bit static.

What's the point of holding an event to explain things to your customers through video formats and verbal explanations?

It could’ve quite literally been an email instead. Instead of the boring old experience centre that has barely any interactivity other than the interaction between the customer and the door, as they’re about to leave, as opposed to an AR experience that has those same elements, same videos, same explanations, but the effort put behind them is greater, which the visitors inherently know, appreciating the experience much more than a non-AR one.

While the effort behind it may be substantial, the ROI is well worth the effort and capital put into the experience.

Reduced Cognitive Overload

Cognitive overload can lead to confusion, frustration, and slower decision-making, particularly in tasks requiring multitasking or navigating complex environments. AR is increasingly being used to address cognitive overload by presenting information in a way that makes it easier for users to absorb and act upon it. AR helps simplify complex data by overlaying relevant information directly onto the user's field of view. For instance, in a retail environment, AR can show a user detailed product information, reviews, and price comparisons by simply pointing the camera at the item.

Real-Time Interaction and Feedback

AR can encourage real-time interaction and feedback. Merging digital elements with the real world lets users actively engage with virtual content in its surroundings; this creates instant feedback that improves a viewer's ability to understand and learn. AR-driven feedback loops are particularly effective in decision-making scenarios. In retail, AR applications allow customers to "try on" clothes, glasses, or even furniture virtually by adding these elements for them to see in the real world. Real-time adjustments to colour, size, or style are immediately reflected, helping customers make confident purchasing decisions.

For a real-life case study of augmented reality for events and fairs, Communique India created an experience in collaboration with Ink In Caps.

Amazon Sambhav case study

To bring Amazon’s story to life at Sambhav, we crafted an immersive Augmented Reality (AR) experience that captivated attendees. Using tablets provided at the zone, visitors could scan one of three interactive walls, each revealing 19 unique touchpoints. These touchpoints activated voice overs that narrated Amazon’s logistics journey, covering every step from the seller’s manufacturing unit to the buyer’s doorstep. Originally designed to take about 10 minutes, the experience was extended to 15 minutes to convey the depth of Amazon’s logistics story. To create this AR experience, our 3D team manually refined and animated text and icons in Blender. In Unity, we developed a premier material subset with lighting inspired by the previous year’s Smbhav, ensuring consistent visuals during the event. The animations were compiled into an application divided into three main parts with multiple subparts, then rigorously tested before installation on six iPads. For seamless object and image tracking, we combined ARKit and Vuforia, achieving smooth integration and functionality. The AR experience was a resounding success, with over 3,500 visitors exploring Amazon’s logistics through the 19 touchpoints. The detailed journey, from manufacturing to delivery, left a lasting impression, effectively communicating Amazon’s logistical prowess.

Augmented reality is redefining the way events and fairs are experienced, turning static showcases into immersive, interactive journeys. The Amazon Sambhav case study highlights the potential of AR to not only tell a story but also leave a lasting impression on participants. While the investment in creating such experiences may seem substantial, the payoff in terms of engagement, retention, and overall satisfaction makes it a game-changer for event organisers looking to elevate their impact. With AR, the future of events is not just about attending; it's about experiencing.

About the Author

Idris
Content Writer

MORE FROM OUR CREATIVE MIND

Get Everyone's Attention With These Amazing Experiences
Design & Technology
By Snigdha Singh 5 min read
Is 3D Projection Mapping The Future Or The Present?
Design & Technology
By Pallavi.Jain 5 min read
Tags:
virtual reality
Productivity
Minimalist
Quality
conference
Growth
Security Token
virtual reality
    virtual reality
    Productivity
    Minimalist
    Quality
    conference
    Growth
    Security Token
    virtual reality

About the Author

Idris
Content Writer

MORE FROM OUR CREATIVE MIND

Get Everyone's Attention With These Amazing Experiences
Design & Technology
By Snigdha Singh 5 min read
Is 3D Projection Mapping The Future Or The Present?
Design & Technology
By Pallavi.Jain 5 min read
Case studies you might be interested in
View All
Amazon Smbhav
Design & Technology
By Snigdha Singh 5 min read
Defence Expo
Design & Technology
By Pallavi.Jain 5 min read

Contact Us Now:

Performance    Passion   Collaboration  
  Ink In Caps