1. Microsoft HoloLens: The introduction of the HoloLens, a powerful AR headset, revolutionized the way we interact with virtual objects in the real world. It offers a truly immersive and high-quality AR experience.

2. Pokémon Go: The game Pokémon Go took the world by storm in 2016, popularizing AR technology on smartphones. It enabled millions of users to experience augmented reality by overlaying virtual creatures onto the real world using their phone’s camera.

3. Google Glass: Though it didn’t achieve mainstream success, Google Glass was one of the first commercially available augmented reality headsets. It allowed users to view information and images in a hands-free manner, projecting them onto a small screen in front of their eyes.

4. Apple ARKit: Apple’s introduction of ARKit, a development platform for AR apps, in 2017 made AR more accessible to millions of iPhone and iPad users. It enabled developers to create highly immersive and interactive AR experiences, leading to a surge in AR app development.

5. Magic Leap: Magic Leap is a company that developed a cutting-edge spatial computing platform. They created a headset that uses digital light field technology, offering incredibly realistic and seamless blending of virtual images with the real world.

6. Snapchat Filters: Snapchat popularized AR filters or “Lenses” that users can apply to their faces in real-time. This breakthrough allowed users to modify their appearance or add virtual elements to their environment, creating a fun and interactive AR experience.

7. Augmented Reality in Retail: Various retailers, such as IKEA and Sephora, have adopted AR technology to enhance the shopping experience. It enables customers to virtually try on makeup or visualize furniture in their own homes before making a purchase.

8. Medical Training and Visualization: Augmented reality has been utilized in medical training to simulate surgeries or visualize complex medical information. Surgeons can practice procedures in a virtual environment, enhancing their skills and reducing the risk for patients.

9. AR in Navigation and Wayfinding: AR has greatly improved navigation and wayfinding by overlaying directions directly onto the real world. Apps like Google Maps and Citymapper provide AR guidance, with arrows and directions appearing in real-time on the user’s screen.

10. Augmented Reality in Education: AR has transformed education by making learning more interactive and engaging. AR apps allow students to explore 3D models, interact with historical figures, or take virtual field trips, enhancing comprehension and retention of information.

Note: The ranking of breakthroughs is subjective and can vary based on individual opinions and perspectives.