23 Best Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Apps For iOS and Android

23 Best Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Apps For iOS and Android

Virtual reality technology allows users to explore new digital worlds, whereas augmented reality technology allows users to experience the world around them in a new and exciting way.

These technologies may not have been easily accessible to consumers in the past, but now they’ve gone mainstream. In fact, these technologies are now used to support countless apps for iOS and Android devices. Here’s an overview of the 23 best augmented reality and virtual reality apps:

DinoTrek

Dinosaurs are extinct, but consumers can still find out what it’s like to walk amongst them thanks to the DinoTrek app. This app uses virtual reality technology to transport users to a prehistoric era where dinosaurs still roamed on Earth.

You can get up close and personal with a T-Rex or observe dinosaurs relaxing in the sun from a safe distance. You can even see them fight one another over food or other scarce resources. The best part? You don’t need a virtual reality headset to enjoy this unforgettable experience.

Tank Training

See what it’s like to operate a military tank by downloading the Tank Training app, which is powered by virtual reality technology. The tank is armed with cannons, which you must shoot to destroy marked targets as you navigate through this virtual world.

You can play this game on your own to practice or compete against friends or other online players. A leadership board is even displayed within the app so you can see how you are performing compared to other players.

Rollercoaster

You don’t need to visit an amusement park to experience the thrill of riding a rollercoaster. Instead, download the Rollercoaster app, which uses virtual reality technology to strap you in for the ride of a lifetime.

There are over 60 different rollercoasters to explore within this app. Be prepared for tight twists and turns, stomach-churning drops, and never-ending fun!

Sisters

The Sisters app uses virtual reality technology to transport you inside a haunted mansion on a stormy night. You will quickly discover that you are alone in a room and surrounded by creepy décor and scary Victorian-era dolls. What happens next in this ghost story will depend on what objects you interact with in this spooky virtual world. But one thing is certain: you will be on the edge of your seat the entire time.

Cartoon Village

Travel to the colorful streets of Cartoon Village, a virtual world inhabited by peaceful farmers and other workers. The level of detail that went into the design of Cartoon Village will make you feel like you are actually walking down these virtual streets.

Create your own custom characters and interact with the residents of Cartoon Village to learn more about the way they live. You can even adjust the time of day or season to see how these changes affect the virtual residents of this town.

Volvo Reality

Take a virtual test drive of a brand new Volvo using the Volvo Reality app, which is supported by virtual reality technology. You can see what it’s like to sit in the driver’s seat of a Volvo XC90 SUV. Explore the interior of the vehicle, take in the beautiful sights around you, and relax so you can enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime joyride.

Just A Line

The Just A Line app uses augmented reality technology to bring your drawings to life. You won’t need any special equipment to enjoy this app.

Simply use your finger to draw anything your heart desires. Then, the app will use augmented reality technology to project your drawing onto your surroundings. You can even capture a video of your experience so you can easily share it with friends and family.

Google Maps

The Google Maps app is designed with an augmented reality mode, which makes it easier than ever before to get where you need to go.

Type in the address of your final destination. Then, hold your smartphone up and watch as the app projects digital arrows and other navigational symbols onto your surroundings. You won’t ever miss another turn or street sign again thanks to these visual cues. Instead, the app ensures that you quickly navigate through the city to make it to your final destination.

Civilizations AR

BBC’s Civilizations AR app was released to complement the network’s Civilizations documentary series. However, you won’t need to watch the documentaries in order to enjoy the app.

This augmented reality app gives you an opportunity to explore over 30 artifacts from various time periods and ancient civilizations. Using the app, you can see 3-D lifelike renderings of each famous artifact. Take a closer look at each artifact while the app tells you more about where it’s from and its historical significance.

SketchAR

This innovative app allows you to use your smartphone as a drawing aid. How does it work? Use your smartphone camera to project an augmented reality sketch on a blank piece of paper in front of you. Grab a pen, paintbrush, or marker and trace the digital lines of the sketch on the piece of paper. In just a few minutes, you can create a beautiful work of art.

YouCam Makeup

Try out different makeup looks without spending a penny on new cosmetic products using the YouCam Makeup app, which is powered by augmented reality technology.

You can see what you would look like wearing various shades of lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow from L’Oreal, Maybelline, and other cosmetic brands. If you like a certain look, snap a selfie so you can remember which products to buy the next time you visit a drug or grocery store.

Warby Parker

Similar to the YouCam Makeup app, the Warby Parker app uses augmented reality to allow consumers to try on different looks at home. Using this app, you can try on countless pairs of Warby Parker glasses without ever stepping foot in a store.

If you need help finding a pair, upload a photo of yourself and the app will suggest frames that will flatter your face shape.

Smash Tanks

Turn your tabletop, countertop, floor, or bed into an augmented reality battlefield using the Smash Tanks app. The goal is to use your digital troops and tanks to destroy the enemy as quickly as possible. You can play on your own or compete with friends or other online players—the choice is yours.

Inkhunter

You will never regret getting another tattoo again thanks to the Inkhunter app. Use this augmented reality app to project different tattoo designs onto your body. You can choose from hundreds of different tattoos or upload your own custom design. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the digital tattoo projected onto your skin so you can get feedback from friends and family before deciding whether or not to get inked.

IKEA Place

Use the IKEA Place app to see what tables, lamps, sofas, and other furniture pieces will look like inside your home. The app uses augmented reality to project digital images of different furniture pieces onto your surroundings. Drag and drop each piece in different places to figure out what looks best where.

Once you’re satisfied with a floor plan, capture a photo so you know which furniture pieces you need to bring your virtual design to life.

MeasureKit

Turn your smartphone into a functional tool with the MeasureKit augmented reality app. The free version of this app gives you access to an augmented reality pocket measuring tool, which you can use to measure real world objects and spaces.

Upgrade to the paid version of the app to access other tools, including a level and augmented reality marker pins.

Star Walk

See the stars like never before using the Star Walk augmented reality app. To use this app, point your smartphone up toward the sky. The app will use your phone’s location data and sensors to determine what part of the sky you are currently looking at. Then, the app will use augmented reality technology to project information onto the starry sky above you.

The app will pinpoint constellations, planets, and more to enhance your stargazing experience.

WallaMe

Use the WallaMe app to leave your mark on buildings, sidewalks, or walls around you without breaking any laws or making a mess.

Use your finger to draw a custom image on your smartphone. Then, the app will use augmented reality technology to project your custom image onto your surroundings. You can then take a photo and share it with your friends and family. The photo is geotagged, so your loved ones will know exactly where you created your virtual piece of art.

Google Translate

Similar to Google Maps, the Google Translate app is also designed with an augmented reality mode. Turn on this feature and hold your smartphone up to capture the world around you. The app will read and translate street signs, menus, and more. The translated text will be projected over the foreign language text, so you can translate everything around you in real time.

Pokemon Go

Perhaps one of the most popular augmented reality apps, Pokemon Go is an interactive game that allows users to catch famous Pokemon characters. The app projects digital Pokemon characters onto your surroundings, so walk around and you might just find Pikachu hiding in your kitchen or Jigglypuff by your pool outside.

Zombies Go

Zombies Go is an augmented reality app that is similar to Pokemon Go. But instead of catching Pokemon characters, you will have to decide what to do with the zombies you encounter. You can choose to fight the zombies to earn points or turn on the app’s “safe mode” to protect yourself from attacks while you explore this augmented world.

Wanna Kicks

Try on hundreds of different pairs of trendy athletic shoes with the Wanna Kicks app, which is supported by augmented reality technology. The app will project virtual versions of each shoe design onto your feet, so you can see what you would look like wearing each style. Using this app, you can find a pair of sneakers you love without ever leaving home.

Vuforia Chalk

Do you need help from a tech savvy friend? Open the Vuforia Chalk app to place a video call to your friend. Then, use your smartphone camera to show your friend what you’re struggling to figure out.

Both you and your friend will be able to draw on the screen to work toward a resolution to your problem. For example, your friend might draw a circle around the button that they want you to press. Using this app is like having an on-call tech support team at your fingertips!

Experience the power of virtual and augmented reality technology for yourself by downloading some of these incredible smartphone apps today.