How much would it cost to build an AR application?

Gyroscope-based AR

The simplest way to create an AR application is the use of the device’s gyroscope. According to the information from the gyroscope of the device, the app can place virtual models around the user.

There is no SDK is required to do such simple features. Example: Vortex Planetarium – Astronomy app, it’s uses the gyroscope to place planets, constellations, stars around a user.

Average time required is 200-300 hours for the app. So if suppose company charge you $20 per hour then it may cost you $4000-$6000.

Marker-based AR

The second way to initiate augmented reality in an application is to use trigger-markers in the real world. Markers may be simple QR-codes, icons, cards, images, or even movie or product posters. Device’s camera captures and Identify such kind of triggers. The AR app then projects a specific AR model or media onto it.

These Marker-based technologies are pretty easy to develop and integrate into the app. However, most of the time is spent on setting triggers. Each trigger image should be designed, scanned and integrated into the app individually

There are few SDKs like ARKit, Vuforia, Wikitude, Kudan, and Maxst allow to create such type of features. Examples: Inkhunter app, this app using markers to project tattoo designs, Quiver app for 3D models, Layar app to scan printed media pictures and generate projections.

Average time required to complete such an app is around 250-400 hours. So if suppose company charge you $20 per hour then it may cost you $5000-$8000.

SLAM (Simultaneous localization and mapping)

The concept of SLAM was born in the 80s but only modern devices have enough capabilities and resources to support it. This technology is used by self-driving vehicles, drones, and the robotics industry. There are complex algorithms integrate data from multiple sensors, calculates the user’s position and creates a map of the unknown environment.

AR applications use this feature to place different 3D objects in real surroundings.

Advantages of SLAM technology is that it doesn’t require any trigger-markers. In this technology, virtual objects can react with different objects in the real world that appears on the scene. You also may use SLAM to build a 3D model of real objects by simply moving the camera around it.

ARKit, Wikitude, Kudan and Maxst SDKs allow developers to create such kind of feature. Example: IKEA augmented reality app, which uses SLAM technology and allows users to place 3D models of furniture in a real environment.

Average time required is around 250-500 hours. So if suppose company charge you $20 per hour then it may cost you $5000-$10000.

Location-based AR

Location-based AR apps use the device’s data from GPS, compass, and Wi-Fi to augment reality around a user by placing virtual models, media, text info or link in the real world. The user should be at the right location with a good internet connection to get the best AR experience of the app

Wikitude SDK allows developers to create this type of feature. Examples: Pokemon GO, this app generating digital characters based on your device location and placing them in a physical environment.

verage time required is around 400-800 hours. So if suppose company charge you $20 per hour then it may cost you $8000-$16000.

There are so many features that may also be added into AR application. They can certainly enhance the user experience of the app. Additional features can make apps more flexible, featured, personalized, secured. Each feature will take time to integrate and result in the increased budget cost of the app.