Qualcomm is helping mobile developers merge reality and cyberspace with its upcoming release of an augmented reality platform and accompanying SDK for Android-based devices.
“Augmented reality allows computer-generated content to be superimposed over a live camera view of the real world. The concept has seen growing interest among developers for its potential to create applications that are more intuitive and interactive,” explained senior Qualcomm VP Matt Grob.
“While many current augmented reality applications rely on a compass and GPS, Qualcomm’s SDK is based on computer vision technology [which] provides a greatly enhanced user experience by allowing computer graphics to be tightly aligned with real world objects.”
According to Grob, Qualcomm’s SDK will allow developers to code games, supplement print and TV media with interactive 3D content and create educational applications that “bridge” the digital and real world.
“[For example], Mattel has already used [our] SDK to bring the classic Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em game to life in a whole new way.
“[We have also] collaborated with game engine developer Unity Technologies to include support for Qualcomm’s augmented reality platform as an add-on to Unity for Android.”
A beta version of the augmented reality SDK for developers is slated to be released this fall.
