Location-Based Augmented Reality

• The introduction of the Global Positioning System (GPS) has allowed the public to create Points of Interest (POI) and find directions using GPS devices implementing maps created from Geographic Information Systems (GIS). GPS devices track the current location of the individual using triangulation of signals coming from multiple satellites orbiting Earth. The GPS device finds and stores the location as latitude, longitude and elevation. In addition, the GPS unit can find the distance and direction to other latitudes, longitudes and elevations using spherical geometry. So, an individual can receive directions to any destination on the globe. Many companies, such as TomTom, Layar and Wikitude, provide databases of POIs linked to applications on GPS devices, including phones.
  
  

Types of POIs

• POIs have been marked for many years using historical markers or monuments, however, augmented reality now allows individuals to mark specific locations with data, images, or virtual structures on their mobile devices. GPS device companies, such as Garmin, Magellan and TomTom, provide and store POIs for restaurants, entertainment, and institutions in conjunction with the devices' navigation functions. Wikitude allows users to post POIs of events, interesting information and images using a downloadable application on mobile devices. Similarly, Layar is a downloadable application that allows individuals to post information, images and three-dimensional computer models.
  
  

Interactive POIs

• Today, augmented reality companies are introducing interactive content beyond the static one-, two- and three-dimensional POIs. Layar and other companies are creating augmented reality games that are overlaid on the existing environment. You can play classic arcade games, walk through a maze or play strategy games in the real world on your smart phone or tablet computer using the Layar application.
  
  

Augmented Reality Using Fiduciary Markers

• Another form of augmented reality relies on a computer camera's ability to read a geometrical figure, called a fiduciary marker, and overlay computer graphics and animations over that figure, which is displayed on the computer's monitor. This technology was initially developed in the ARToolKit by Hirokazu Kato in the late '90s. Today, ARToolWorks and other companies provide software that allows individuals to create and interact with the technology. Furthermore, applications have been developed for smart phones that can read and interact with the augmented reality fiduciary markers.
  
  

Companies Using Augmented Reality

• Over the past couple of years, Best Buy and Disney have created augmented reality promotional materials for their products. Furthermore, Hallmark now has a series of greeting cards that show three-dimensional scenes using the augmented reality technology and a computer.