Apps You REALLY Need!

As we all know, online and smart phone applications are taking over life as we know it. Apps that do your taxes, apps that remind you to brush your teeth, even apps to do your math homework! However, because of the revolutionary speed and precision that they are being produced, we really have no choice but to succumb to their control. But, to be frank, a lot of these apps are really changing the way things are run in this world for the better (and for the efficient). For example, in my "Exploring Your Digital Portfolio" class, we discussed the up and coming AR (Augmented Reality) applications that are taking the world by storm. Some of the apps we discussed were: Visibly Body, ZooKazam, and Elements 4D.

Augmented reality applications may seem a little bit intimidating, but once you get the basic breakdown, they are actually really simple and easy to use. According to "How Augmented Reality Works" by Kevin Bonsor, "the basic idea of augmented reality is to superimpose graphics, audio and other sensory enhancements over a real-world environment in real time." What that basically means is that AR is meant to really feel like you are in a different reality, all brought to you by technology! AR can be brought forth with cell phones, computers, any type of electronic device. It is really amazing to see how far technology has come; now all we're waiting on is time travel! 

The popular game "Pokémon Go!" is a great example of augmented reality

Augmented reality is also such a useful tool for students, considering a lot of us learn best through hands-on and visual techniques. A lot of AR apps are geared toward the sciences, and thanks to "Review: Four Cool Augmented Reality Science Apps," I am able to give you awesome apps for all of you science majors! One of the ones that really stood out to me was the Nasa Spacecraft 3D application. From this app, you can access a variety of aircraft via 3-dimension technology! You can not only view these awesome spacecraft, but you can also interact with the app and learn all about each carrier that they have in the app! It is a really awesome app for those who wish to pursue a career in that field, or those who are interested in spacecraft!

However, AR is not only used for educational purposes; it also used in wholesale retailer stores! Target has started to use augmented reality applications in order to help you shop for furniture, and it is really taking the shopping field to new heights. With its new online visual search tool, you can view how a chair or a table will look in a certain size room/space, allowing you to do all of your new home renovations from the comfort of your own home! With this new technology, the possibilities are endless as to what we can accomplish. If furniture shopping is only the beginning, I can't wait to see what the future holds!

How Target works in the furniture selection process using augmented reality

Speaking of the future, in this weeks reading of LOL...OMG!, the chapter described the importance of keeping your online reputation in check. Chapter 7 gave a list of seven tips that are crucial in maintaining your online reputation, but I am only going to describe a few that really stood out to me. One of the most important ones on that list was to update your privacy settings. It is SO important to always know if you are a private or public account before posting anything, especially if you are looking into high-ranking careers where they check your social media regularly. Another step that deemed important enough to make mention was to update and strengthen your passwords regularly. Hackers are always looking for vulnerable accounts to take advantage of, but by securing your account with the changing of passwords, you are able to keep your account safe at all times! By following these helpful tips, it is quite easy to always have a squeaky clean reputation. 

Thanks so much for reading this week guys! Hope you picked up some awesome new apps to try, I know I sure did!

-Liv