Applications of augmented reality in museums, impact on cultural heritage

Introduction: the museum is a site that collects, exhibits, researches and classifies material objects that represent nature and human cultural heritage. They are one of the sources of knowledge about history and culture. To face the current digital revolution they have used technologies such as augmented reality. The objective was to characterize the application of augmented reality (AR) technology in museums. Methods: a total of 20 articles in Spanish and English were reviewed, from Science, Scielo and Dialnet; using as keywords: augmented reality, museum, museum exhibits, interactive exhibits, immersive technologies, being more than 50 % of the last five years. Results: the vast majority of museums as institutions try to find various methods to excite and involve their audiences. The technology behind AR improves visitor perception, as historical and cultural relics can be displayed through augmented reality and virtual compositions. The AR also ensures accessories and applications to improve the experience at the center, resulting in greater educational, historical and social impact. Conclusions: augmented reality technology in museums makes it possible to captivate diverse audiences, adapt to the personal interests of the visitor, remodel the design of exhibitions, the combination of art and technology, improve understanding and ensure positivity of the museum experience. This is guaranteed through mobile applications, accessories and websites.