In a world where our smartphones are an extension of our hands, multi-screening is the norm and even kids under nine spend more than two hours a day on screens*, information has never been so accessible. But how can we use the library in our hands for good, instead of scrolling aimlessly through photos of kittens in hats?

We’ve found some apps that use augmented and virtual reality to bring information to life by transforming it into experiences (our favourite subject!) that spark passion and actively involve the user.

Deep-sea diver.

Unless you have a submarine at your disposal, exploring the ocean is difficult. You can always watch a bit of Attenborough, but why be a passive viewer when you could be an active participant?

BBC Earth: Life in VR, created by the BBC and Google, lets you explore the ocean on Daydream View headsets and compatible phones. From microscopic plankton to giant sperm whales, you can witness first-hand the ocean’s diverse inhabitants and ecosystems.

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Pocket planetarium.

Back on dry land, this fascinating app uses augmented reality to bring the universe a little closer. Used by over 30 million people, Star Chart provides a star gazing experience like no other.

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Star Chart uses GPS technology to calculate in real time the location of every star and planet visible from Earth. Point your phone towards the sky and it will show you exactly where you can see each one – or would, if it weren’t so darn cloudy. By pinpointing the locations of stars and planets in relation to your own physical body, the app brings users a personalised, tangible experience of astronomy.

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Whatever next?!

To build its new augmented reality Arts & Culture App, Google collaborated with over 1,200 international museums, galleries and institutions from 70 countries. Google is putting the ‘art’ in smartphone, with virtual tours of famous museums, a zoom function to take you up close and personal with the world’s treasures, and the ability to curate your own collection of artworks.

The most popular feature is the ability to match your face with famous paintings. If you take a selfie, the app will search its database to find the artwork that best matches your face. This feature has gained traction and exposure amongst celebrities, taking the app to the top of the download charts on Google Play!

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When it comes to education, it’s not just about what you’re learning, but how. The internet has brought the world of knowledge to our fingertips, but now we’ve got to get it into our brains. Augmented and virtual reality bring learning to life in ways that excite, immerse and inspire.

*Source: CNN October 2017
Image source: Google Play Store

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