London dev claims first augmented reality iPhone app
updated 10:40 am EDT, Wed July 8, 2009
Augmented reality app
acrossair, a developer based in London, England, says it is waiting for approval on what should be the first augmented reality application for the iPhone. Called Nearest Tube, the app points users in the direction of the closest London Underground subway station. Distinguishing it from titles like Google Maps is the use of a live video mode, on top of which the app overlays graphics indicating which direction to travel.
In this main view, stations are identified by name and distance, as well as which subway lines connect. Holding an iPhone flat switches to a view of all 13 Tube lines, while tilting a phone upwards shows more distant stations in the form of stacked icons. Because the app relies on both compass and video fuctions, it is only compatible with the iPhone 3GS. Planned pricing is so far unknown.
First Augmented Real app?
07/08, 11:53am reply
Actually - I disagree that the London "Nearest Tube" app will/might be the first Augmented Reality app on the iPhone. I've been watching this space for a while - and the first app to showcase Augmented Reality, IMHO was Pocket Universe for 3.0.
Zaud
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Apr 2007
Well
07/08, 12:39pm reply
I'm not sure where the term 'augmented reality' comes from, but it is far from 'reality'. Reality, as we know from various TV shows, is all about putting people in strenuous or unusual circumstances they wouldn't normally be in, and then to watch to see how they react.
Now that's reality!
testudo
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Joined: Aug 2001
Annoying
07/08, 12:41pm reply
Is this what we need? A bunch of people walking around with their iPhones in front of their face because they can't figure out how to read a map?
Hope they're ready for the lawsuits from people walking across streets and getting hit by cars...
LouZer
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Nov 2000
neat
07/08, 12:41pm reply
aka "identify the tourist"
darkelf
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Joined: Nov 2003
Petition apple for API
07/11, 10:13pm reply
I have started a facebook group petitioning Apple to open the API for video augmentation. This will allow agmented reality apps in the store! Please join and pass it on:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=105162007611
loerchner
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Joined: Jul 2009