Quick App: Layar (Augmented) Reality Browser for iPhone
Layar Reality Browser [Free - iTunes link] is technically an augmented reality browser for the iPhone 3GS (it depends in large part on the compass to work its wonders).
For the uninitiated, augmented reality typically uses GPS location and internet data to layer information on the screen over live video. In Layar’s case, for example, to show local search results for “pizza” over the restaurants in an intersection you’re looking at on your iPhone.
Whether cool translates into usefulness — we’ll see. But on cool alone, it’s definitely worth a look. (You can also view search results in map and list view, but what’s the fun in that?”
[Layar via TechCrunch]
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First! Just kidding. I have this app and when I use it I can just see my battery drain faster than ever. Maybe ba coding or it’s just more stressful on the phone? Anyone else?
Not really seeing much point in this. Google Maps is quicker, and you don’t have to wander around in circles. It launches Google Maps to do anything usefull anyways!
No 3G support = MEH!!!
Weak
I followed this app for a while before downloading. Seemed like a great app. After using it, I was very dissapointed for 1 reason; crashes during apartment searches and few other searches. I am impressed with the idea, but what good is an idea when it does not work. I am hoping the dev team takes a minute to read my comment.
Good idea but struggles to get a gps signal. I get an exact location in google maps then go into layar and am at /- 47 metres. Also the app drains the battery incredibly quickly!
@Darryl, It’s AR and therefore dependent on the digital compass.
I’ve noticed my battery drain a bit faster when I use this app too. There aren’t many layers in Denmark, just Layar’s and Wikipedia is useful, for now.
So right now, it’s just a fancy google maps. It does hold promise, I believe.
It really is quite useful in you live in the Netherlands (the country that Layar is based in) since it has so many layers already that are supported here. I recently moved to a new city and using the funda layer to find apartments and especially using the ING layer to find a nearby hidden ATM is really great. I think this app will only improve, so I look forward to future updates! Bedankt Layar!
@Daryl: How the heck is an application that uses a compass for direction going to work on a 3G with no compass? There is absolutely no way for an app to tell which way you are standing without a compass so it is IMPOSSIBLE for this to work on your device and has nothing to do with the developer.