Mobile augmented reality is a technology that enables people overlay information on the real world. In some way, augmented reality is a new way of getting access to the data; however, the influence of this technology on society can be compared to the influence of the Internet when it first came out. The Internet has made the information more context-dependent. Mobile augmented reality is able to do even more. The information found on the Web will be automatically delivered to users. So, in order to find a good cafeteria, you do not have to use search engines any more. Due to mobile augmented reality you will immediately get a list of the restaurants to visit, the reviews left by the visitors, detailed information on meals and Wi-Fi (whether it is available).
Recently the Layer service based on mobile augmented reality has been released in the Netherlands. It is intended to provide a user with the information on all objects surrounding him. The program works the OS Android devices. The program allows getting a quick access to the website of the hotel that the user has seen and book a room right away, read the product feedbacks made by buyers or receive the information about the architecture monument the user may be interested in. Mobile augmented reality systems use the advantages of all modern devices – cameras, GPS etc. Applying augmented reality will help people solve their problems more rapidly and effectively. Mobile augmented reality is really important in such spheres as computer games, tourism, shopping, social networks, gadgets, military science and even furniture assembly.
Today iPhone users have an opportunity to apply TwittARound application that uses GPS built in the iPhone and shows its owner where Twitter users are located. Due to TwittAround app you will be able to get acquainted with Twitter users, communicate and exchange information with them. Mobile phone navigation is becoming more and more popular today. There are a lot of mobile phones with built-in GPS and capacious accumulator. Such phones can easily replace pedestrian navigators. Let’s suggest that a user records the buildings surrounding him through a camera. And by means of the augmented reality the program displays the signs that help find the way to the hotel or metro station. This kind of application is already available.
So, mobile augmented technology is gradually becoming an integral part of our life. Perhaps, the creation of complete virtual reality will soon become unnecessary. However, mobile phones with high quality cameras are needed for proper development of augmented reality. It’s important to mention that the leaders of mobile market have already become interested in mobile augmented reality development. It means that considerable sums of money will be spent on its promotion. In the foreseeable future our mobile phones are likely to become real “windows” to the surrounding world. We are going to be constantly provided with the necessary information on what’s happening around. Mobile augmented reality has a bunch of obvious advantages to offer. If you try it, you will undoubtedly see it for yourself!