Augmented Utility: A Cross-Disciplinary Analysis Of AR Integration In Education, Commerce, And Real-Time Data Visualization

Abstract

Background: Augmented Reality (AR) has evolved from a theoretical construct into a versatile tool capable of overlaying digital information onto the physical world. While early iterations focused on entertainment, recent developments suggest a paradigm shift toward utilitarian applications in education, commerce, and data analytics. Methods: This study employs a cross-disciplinary qualitative review, analyzing literature spanning from foundational surveys (1997) to emerging 2025 frameworks. The research evaluates the efficacy of AR across three primary vectors: pedagogical tools in remote and technical education, consumer engagement in m-commerce and smart retailing, and high-fidelity data visualization in industrial contexts. Results: Findings indicate that AR significantly lowers the barrier to entry for complex skill acquisition, particularly in medical training and creative design, by spatializing abstract information. In commerce, AR serves as a critical driver for consumer confidence, bridging the gap between digital browsing and physical reality. Furthermore, recent advancements in real-time analytics demonstrate that AR can transform static data dashboards into interactive, spatial environments, enhancing decision-making speed. Conclusion: The integration of AR is no longer limited by hardware capability but by interface design and content integration. The future of the technology lies in "Augmented Utility," where the focus shifts from immersion for immersion's sake to the seamless enhancement of cognitive processing and professional workflows.