Header Banner
Next Reality Logo
Next Reality
Augmented & Mixed Reality News, Rumors & Dev Guides
AppleSnapAR BusinessGoogleInstagram | FacebookNFTHoloLensMagic LeapHands-OnSmartphone ARThe Future of ARNext Reality 30AR GlossaryARKit Dev 101What Is AR?Mixed RealityHoloLens Dev 101Augmented RealityHololens How-TosHoloLens v. Magic Leap v. Meta 2VR v. AR v. MR

Yahoo! Japan's Maps App Unveils AR Mode with an Unbearably Cute Mascot to Guide the Way

Mar 7, 2018 07:53 PM
Animated dog character wearing a helmet with a red dot on top.

Whenever Japan does something new in tech, the cute factor is almost always taken into account. The same holds true for augmented reality, as Yahoo! Japan has just revealed its take on AR map navigation with a new AR Mode.

Like other versions of AR mapping that we've seen before, like Blippar's AR City, the app's new feature allows you to enter a destination and watch as bold guides are overlaid over reality, directing you to your destination with ease.

The addition of this AR layer to existing map apps is especially useful if you're among those who have trouble following map directions (let's face it, not even GPS can give some people a sense of direction).

But as with all apps, even utility apps, if you can find a way to add gamification, you'll probably snag a lot more users. Yahoo! Japan figured this out and decided to add an unbearably cute mascot creature who greets you once you've reached your destination. That virtual hug is a pretty strong incentive to use the AR Mode for those who might only be casually familiar with AR.

Another fun design element added by the company shows you what are supposed to be your own footprints behind you as you make your way along your path. Yeah, that's pretty cute too.

Unfortunately, the iPhone app is only available in Japan and, although there's an Android version of the app, the AR Mode, which was developed using ARKit, is only available on iOS devices.

Nevertheless, US companies should take note of Yahoo! Japan's approach. Yes, AR can be incredibly practical as a utility tool, and that should be enough. But if you make AR fun, no matter how pedestrian the app's function, you've already won half the battle.

Cover image via Yahoo! Japan/YouTube

Just updated your iPhone? You'll find updated Apple Intelligence capabilities, new wallpapers, and enhancements to Calculator, PDF cropping, and Live Voicemail, among other useful features. Find out what's new and changed on your iPhone with the iOS 18.3 update.

Related Articles

Comments

No Comments Exist

Be the first, drop a comment!