Recently there has been a lot of hype about Augmented Reality as it applies to mobile devices. There are AR apps coming out for just about every flavour of smart phone with a distribution channel. But that begs the question; are they useful or is this just another fad that will be gone as quickly as it appeared? That question can only be answered by the app developers who are feeding consumers’ current insatiable hunger for AR. If something comes out that truly captures the public’s imagination or helps change the way we do things, then there’s a chance that it may be here to stay.
I recently hosted the inaugural Google Tech User Group in Sydney, Australia at which a presentation was given on an entry into the Android Developer Challenge. It was an AR app (no prizes for having guessed that by now!) that was well put together, well thought out and, from the YouTube demo at least, seemed to function well. My issue while watching the demo was; why would I feel compelled to use this application?
To my surprise, that question was answered for me from the audience after the presentation. Lots of suggestions were put forward as to ways in which this particular application could be of value. Mostly commercial value. Mostly to large corporations. Mostly for marketing purposes. But that seems to be the way in which much new technology gains mass market appeal. Just look at the Interweb these days; it is an enormous, content-filled billboard.
AR also has the potential to be of great use to mobile workers in the field. Imagine the logistics app that points a delivery driver directly to the correct spot – to the extent of having a marker that is visible on the device, driven by GPS/magnetometer (compass to you and me).
The possibilities presented by AR are huge, and I think therein lies part of the problem. Until there is a product that makes AR relatable to the masses, it will remain a geeks plaything.
For those of you who are interested, the AR app I am referring to is called GeoPaste, developed by Gary Silva. Google/Bing it and you will find the YouTube video. While you are watching it – think ‘virtual billboards’ and you’ll get the idea.
Till next time,
Nick MayallFounder | CEOhttp://www.theminno.com