Intro
Augmented reality may seem relatively new to most smartphone users, but the immersive technology has been present on the mobile scene for years. It can most recently be traced back to October 2008 when the Wikitude AR Travel Guide first launched on the T-Mobile G1 Android phone. Many analysts predict AR technology will be featured natively in every smartphone by 2014, with overall revenue generating up to $1.5 billion by 2015. And with the public demanding more engaging and productivity-enhancing apps, software developers are already putting in overtime to create the next wave of interactive smartphone programs. Matter of fact, we compiled a dope collection of AR apps available now. So break free from the norm of Temple Run and Words with Friends by checking out the 10 Coolest Augmented Reality Apps.
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Google Goggles
Google Goggles
Price: FREE
Platform: iOS, Android
Here's one Google Labs project that lived up to its potential. Using image recognition technology, the search engine king lets users pull up info on a number of different types of objects. Goggles can scan barcodes to obtain product details, translate foreign language text, and even solve Sudoku puzzles. Think that's sick? There’s also an option to add contacts by scanning business cards.
SpotCrime
SpotCrime
Price: $2.99
Platform: iOS
Those living in high-risk environments should invest in this personal security app which delivers real-time crime stats when pointing the iPhone camera at any street or location. SpotCrime gathers the latest crime incident data from state and local police departments: including robberies, shootings burglaries, and much more. The "Safe and Secure" scoring system also informs users of the most dangerous areas, with high scores indicating safe zones.
Layar
Layar
Price: FREE
Platform: iOS, Android, BlackBerry
The reality browser makes it easy to locate and find services in nearby locations, acquiring info on anything from favorite restaurants to networking opportunities via mobile camera. Scan street corners, magazines, landmarks, and more, browsing through over 3,000 AR layers and choosing a category best suited to your needs. Layar can also generate Tweets originated from specified locations.
Click Here to Download from the Apple App Store
Augmented Colors
Augmented Colors
Price: $0.99
Platform: Windows Phone 7
This exclusive Windows Phone 7 app can identify the RGB and hex value of a targeted color highlighted on any object. Once captured on camera, feel free to share the color code on any popular social network or create a lock screen wallpaper based on the shade. This should come in handy for mobile artists and graphic designers.
Augmented Car Finder
Augmented Car Finder
Price: FREE
Platform: iOS
Can’t remember where the car’s parked? If you’re capable of operating an iPhone (sober or drunk), then this baby will lead you to it. The reminder app saves the car’s position, pulls up the street address near your parking location, and steers you in the right direction.
Google Sky Map
Google Sky Map
Price: FREE
Platform: Android
AR Invaders
AR Invaders
Price: $1.99
Platform: iOS
Turn real-life locations like Times Square into an alien-infested warzone. Blast space invaders from the sky in two different viewing modes: 180 and 360. Play solo and defend the planet against nine different invasions or recruit an army of friends in multiplayer mode to enhance the action.
Lookator
Lookator
Price: FREE
Platform: Android
Running around in dire need of a strong wi-fi connection? Here’s a multiplatform app that pinpoints the best hotspots in your vicinty, providing singal strength and walking directions. Hold your smartphone up and Lookator will take care of the rest.
TagWhat
TagWhat
Price: FREE
Platform: iOS, Android
The mobile encyclopedia helps track locations and displays interactive stories, photos, and videos that can be tagged and shared with your social network community. It’s similar to Foursquare, except you can scan the streets with your camera and browse through tags in an augmented reality view. Read reviews, post feedback, and gain tips in real time.
Wikitude
Wikitude
Price: FREE
Platform: iOS, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Phone 7, Symbian
Wikitude is a virtual browser that lets you pull up Wikipedia entries on objects or landmarks simply by focusing your camera on them. It also finds mobile coupons and discounts for local stores. The “myWorld” feature and “Create Place” tool can be utilized to mark and share favorite spots with friends on Facebook. It's available on all mobile platforms.
Click Here to Download from the Apple App Store
Click Here to Download from the Android Market
Click Here to Download from BlackBerry App World
