The 8 Best Augmented Reality Shirts
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in December of 2018. If you're an uncool parent, you might not be completely familiar with how augmented reality works beyond witnessing your child's constant search for cartoon monsters everywhere you go. The shirts on our list not only have fun designs, but also connect to hidden features that can be revealed using the associated apps, a little secret friends will know about, but teachers won't. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Curiscope Virtuali-Tee
2. KAR Graphics Beating Heart
3. Dino Dana
Editor's Notes
October 15, 2020:
Unfortunately, augmented reality shirts have not exactly taken off since this list was last updated, meaning the category is still rather thin. Several selections have been removed due to availability concerns and replaced with more recent releases.
The best of the new additions is the KAR Graphics Beating Heart, which is perfect for those who use Snapchat, since it doesn't require you to download a separate app just to access the AR content. Most importantly, it looks good on its own, which should be a major consideration when deciding on one of these. For adults, the novelty of the AR content will likely wear off quickly, leaving you with just a shirt that you either will or will not want to keep wearing. Same is true for the DeKryptic Dexter’s Laboratory, a stylish choice for nostalgic fans who would probably be happy to receive it even without the bonus video content.
There is still a clear winner in this category, the Curiscope Virtuali-Tee. While some picks simply offer an animated logo that can be posted online, this shirt connects to a wealth of educational content. Since it provides so much more than every other augmented reality shirt out there, expect this one to remain best in class for some time.
January 06, 2019:
This category is fairly new, and many options only perform simple animations once the app is used. There is a clear winner at the top of the category because it has more than just novelty value, but if you're simply looking for a fun gift, consider the appearance of each item of clothing on its own, as the person will hopefully still wear it after they've experienced the cool AR aspects of it.
Special Honors
Carlings Last Statement Scandinavian retail brand Carlings has produced a T-shirt that's perfect for influencers or anyone obsessed with social media. Using custom Facebook and Instagram filters, it's possible to digitally change the design on the front, promoting messages related to climate change and social justice issues. You can speak out about what you believe in, and your friends won't realize that you're wearing the same shirt every day. carlings.com
4. Praxticus Labs
5. LifeSci Sage Hug a Panda
6. DeKryptic Dexter’s Laboratory
7. Programmattaca Brain Lab
8. KAR Graphics Trippy Dog
Gregg Parker is a writer and puppy enthusiast who divides his time between Los Angeles and the rest of the world. A graduate of the University of Southern California, his eclectic career has involved positions in education, health care, entertainment, nonprofit fundraising, technology, and literature. A points and miles expert, he's well-versed in all topics related to travel, including luggage and travel accessories. Other areas of expertise include pet care products, teaching resources, kitchen appliances, and anything related to coffee or barbecue.