Augmented reality is becoming an increasingly popular integration for mobile games and apps, but has to compete with similar technologies like virtual reality. Here’s what investors should consider before making a purchase.
What are augmented reality stocks?
Augmented reality stocks are stocks from companies that design or produce augmented reality (AR) hardware or software — including chipsets, 3D sensors, headsets, haptic technology, laser projections, varifocal displays and semiconductors.
What is augmented reality?
AR is a form of technology that superimposes sounds and images onto what we observe. In this way, augmented reality tweaks our experience of the world around us by adding to what we perceive. The technology typically requires a lens-equipped screen to operate — like the camera on your mobile device — but can also rely on laser projections.
Since augmented reality is a screen-dependent technology, we typically experience AR through a mobile device. Today, a number of mobile games make use of AR technology, including Pokemon Go, Ingress and Harry Potter: Wizards Unite. But the technology can be used in a variety of other ways, too — including AR projections to assist complex neurosurgeries and projections on fighter planes to assist pilots with speed and navigation.
Augmented reality vs. virtual reality
While sometimes used interchangeably, augmented reality and virtual reality are two different sets of technologies. While augmented reality adds to the observable environment, virtual reality aims to replace it entirely.
Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-simulated experience that allows users to interact with a simulated 3D environment. To access this technology, you often need some form of wearable technology, like a VR headset or head-mounted display. Today, virtual reality is being used in video games, training simulators, real-estate tours, online retail, architectural design and more.
Why invest in augmented reality stocks?
Augmented reality is an emerging technology that is chock-full of potential. And market projections are promising.
According to Mordor Intelligence, the global AR market was worth $882 million in 2019 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 55.8% from 2020 to 2025. During this time, over 800 million smartphones will be equipped with AR-supporting technology. And other market sectors, like the automotive industry, are also integrating the technology into new models with heads-up displays and AR co-drivers.
Augmented reality is a flexible and adaptive technology with a myriad of practical, real-world applications. Not only do investors have the opportunity to back progressive new technology — they have the opportunity to invest in something they may actually use, both now and in the future.
Risks of investing in augmented reality
Augmented reality is a technology on an upward trajectory, but there are investment risks to consider — namely: data protection regulations and market competitors.
Tech companies have come under public scrutiny in the past for infringing on data privacy rights. AR technology is particularly reliant on consumer locations and cameras to operate. Enhanced data protection regulations could impact the industry’s process and hamper growth.
Another consideration is market competitors. Potential is no guarantee of growth and close competitors in the virtual reality and mixed reality markets may take aim at AR companies by targeting the same consumer base.
Augmented reality stocks
Augmented reality is a complex technology with many moving parts, including chipsets, sensors, headsets and varifocal displays. While there are few pure-play augmented reality stocks — companies that focus on augmented reality and nothing else — you can add AR technology to your portfolio by investing in companies that contribute to the technology.
The list below shows some of the augmented reality stocks Canadian investors can buy into on either Canadian or US exchanges. If you’re interested in a specific company, take some time to carefully research it — including its history and financials — before you buy in.
Spectra7 Microsystems Inc. (TSXV: SEV.V). VR company developing AR glasses and headsets.
Ydreams Global (TSXV: YDX). VR and AR solutions for various concept spaces, immersive exhibits and interactive museums.
ARHT Media Inc. (TSXV: ART.V). Augmented Reality Holographic Telepresence technology (transmission of lifelike images)
Nintendo Co., Ltd. (OTC Markets, Pink Sheets: NTDOY). Develops AR video games. Owns 32% of The Pokemon Company, which collaborated with Niantic (privately owned) to develop the multi-billion dollar mobile AR game, Pokemon Go.
ServiceNow, Inc. (NYSE: NOW). Integrated with CareAR in June, 2020, to provide enterprise-level visual support solutions for customers, employees and field workers.
Snap Inc. (NYSE: SNAP). AR technology for cameras and Snapchat users.
Sony Corporation (NYSE: SNE). Developer of the AR SmartEyeglass and the Envision TV AR app, which uses AR to show users how Sony TVs will look in their homes.
Bosch Limited (NSE: BOSCHLTD). A leading developer of “heads up display” (HUD) AR technology for vehicles.
What ETFs track the augmented reality category?
Most of the ETFs that offer exposure to augmented reality stocks are heavily weighted with software and robotics companies.
Besides Canadian ETFs, you can also explore ETFs that trade on stock exchanges in other countries like the NYSE in the US. There are several Canadian-based brokerages that offer access to international exchanges on which you can buy ETFs including Interactive Brokers and Questrade.
Horizons Robotics and Automation Index ETF (TSX: RBOT)
CI First Asset Tech Giants Covered Call ETF Common Units (TSX: TXF)
Evolve E-Gaming Index ETF (TSX: HERO)
TD Global Technology Leaders Index ETF (TSX: TEC)
Communication Services SPDR Fund (NYSEARCA: XLC)
Roundhill BITKRAFT Esports & Digital Entertainment ETF (NYSEARCA: NERD)
SPDR S&P Kensho New Economies Composite ETF (NYSEARCA: KOMP)
Compare trading platforms
To invest in augmented reality stocks, you’ll need a brokerage account. Review your platform options below.
1 - 6 of 6
Bottom line
Augmented reality is a growing technology many of us can access through our mobile devices — but it isn’t without its risks. Data protection regulations and pressure from competing technologies may pose threats to this industry’s development.
Explore your brokerage account options across multiple platforms to find the account that best meets your needs.
Frequently asked questions
Some do, including Nintendo Co., Ltd. (OTC Markets, Pink Sheets: NTDOY), Sony Corporation (NYSE: SNE) and Bosch Limited (NSE: BOSCHLTD). However, not all companies pay dividends like ServiceNow, Inc. (NYSE: NOW) and Snap Inc. (NYSE: SNAP). You can check whether a company pays dividends by visiting its website or by viewing its financials on sites like Yahoo Finance.
Yes, there are many augmented reality penny stocks available for purchase, including Spectra7 Microsystems Inc. (TSXV: SEV), Ydreams Global (TSXV: YDX) and ARHT Media Inc. (TSXV: ART.V).
Image from Getty Images
Disclaimer: This information should not be interpreted as an endorsement of futures, stocks, ETFs, options or any specific provider, service or offering. It should not be relied upon as investment advice or construed as providing recommendations of any kind. Futures, stocks, ETFs and options trading involves substantial risk of loss and therefore are not appropriate for all investors. Trading forex on leverage comes with a higher risk of losing money rapidly. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Consider your own circumstances, and obtain your own advice, before making any trades.
Shannon Terrell is a lead writer and spokesperson at NerdWallet and a former editor at Finder, specializing in personal finance. Her writing and analysis on investing and banking has been featured in Bloomberg, Global News, Yahoo Finance, GoBankingRates and Black Enterprise. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and English literature from the University of Toronto Mississauga. See full bio
's expertise
has written 50 Finder guides across topics including:
Stacie Hurst is an editor at Finder, specializing in a wide range of topics including stock trading, money transfers, loans, banking products, online shopping and streaming. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Writing, and she completed one year of law school in the United States before deciding to pursue a career in the publishing industry. When not working, Stacie can usually be found watching K-dramas or playing games with her friends and family. See full bio
A failed SPAC deal pulled the plug on this vertical farming company’s plans to go public. But you can buy stock in other sustainable farming companies.
How likely would you be to recommend Finder to a friend or colleague?
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Very UnlikelyExtremely Likely
Required
Thank you for your feedback.
Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.
Advertiser Disclosure
finder.com is an independent comparison platform and information service that aims to provide you with the tools you need to make better decisions. While we are independent, the offers that appear on this site are from companies from which finder.com receives compensation. We may receive compensation from our partners for placement of their products or services. We may also receive compensation if you click on certain links posted on our site. While compensation arrangements may affect the order, position or placement of product information, it doesn't influence our assessment of those products. Please don't interpret the order in which products appear on our Site as any endorsement or recommendation from us. finder.com compares a wide range of products, providers and services but we don't provide information on all available products, providers or services. Please appreciate that there may be other options available to you than the products, providers or services covered by our service.
We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.
