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[[Augmented Reality]] (AR) is a technology that overlays computer-generated images, sounds, and contextual data onto the real world, creating an interactive composite view. Unlike [[https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Virtual_reality Virtual Reality]], which replaces the user’s surroundings entirely, AR supplements reality—letting digital [[Pokémon]] appear on streets, in parks, or even on a player’s desk. Since its launch in July 2016, Pokémon GO has continuously expanded its AR tool-set, evolving from a simple camera overlay into sophisticated, persistent, and shared experiences that leverage surface detection, spatial mapping, and cloud anchoring.<!-- :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} -->

For a broader introduction to AR concepts, see the [https://vrarwiki.com/ VR & AR Wiki].

Players can choose any caught Pokémon, place it on a detected surface, reposition it, and capture photos. Smeargle and special-event photobombs may appear after a snapshot session.<ref name="Snapshot2019"/><!-- :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} -->

In **Play Together**, Trainers feed, pet, and walk with their [[Buddy Pokémon]] rendered in real space; Shared AR syncs up to three buddies for group photos.<ref name="Buddy2019"/><!-- :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8} -->

Supported devices use depth APIs to let Pokémon move *behind* furniture or trees, improving realism through occlusion.<ref name="RealityBlending2020"/><!-- :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9} -->

Field Research labelled **AR Mapping** asks Trainers to record short, anonymised videos of PokéStops; these scans refine Niantic’s 3-D maps and unlock in-game bonuses such as powered-up PokéStops.<ref name="RealityBlending2020"/><!-- :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10} -->

An experimental feature that lets Trainers anchor Pokémon persistently at real-world landmarks for others to discover and photograph, enabled by Niantic’s [[Visual Positioning System]].<ref name="Playgrounds2024"/><!-- :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} -->

Pokémon GO’s mainstream success validated mobile AR design, inspiring titles such as *Harry Potter: Wizards Unite* and *Jurassic World Alive* and driving developer interest in Unity’s [[AR Foundation]]. The game has been credited with popularising inside-out, marker-less tracking for consumer devices.<ref name="InsideOut">{{cite web|title=Inside-out tracking – VR & AR Wiki|url=https://vrarwiki.com/wiki/Inside-out_tracking}}</ref><!-- :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15} -->

Niantic has signalled plans for richer occlusion, weather-aware behaviours, and eventual headset support, leveraging its Large Geospatial Model and continued Lightship ARDK updates.<ref name="Lightship"/>