Transforming Industries and Society: Applications, Challenges, and Future Trends in Augmented Reality Technology

Augmented Reality (AR) uses modern technology to combine digital elements with real-world environments to make engaging interactive displays. This research examines all AR elements by studying its hardware tools, software platforms and digital content. It presents different AR approaches such as marker-based, marker less and projector-based. This research studies AR applications across healthcare, education, retail, gaming, and manufacturing industries to show how AR technology transforms these sectors. The report examines how AI technology and holographic development power augmented reality while 5G networks and AR Cloud platforms contribute to its growth. Despite its exciting possibilities AR runs into issues with spatial mapping, hardware problems, user experience problems and privacy risks. The research discusses how AR will shape the Metaverse and Mixed Reality while promoting sustainable development. The research calls for joint teamwork between different fields to solve AR problems and help AR reach its greatest social and industrial benefits.