PBS KIDS Launches Its First Augmented Reality App for iOS

PBS KIDS has announced the launch of an augmented reality app for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad called FETCH! Lunch Rush. The free app uses the iDevices’ cameras to overlay software graphics on top of the physical environment around you.

The goal of the app, according to PBS, was to provide a tool that makes using augmented reality not only fun, but also educational.

FETCH! Lunch Rush teaches kids ages six to eight math skills, such as addition and subtraction,

The fun part kicks in when it blends the virtual and real world to create “a truly engaging experience”, according to the developers.

Commenting on their new release, Jason Seiken, Senior Vice President, Interactive, Product Development and Innovation, PBS, said: "Augmented reality is becoming a popular marketing tool and a compelling feature for gamers, but no one has fully explored what this could mean for educating children."

"We were among the first to offer educational augmented reality kids content when we launched the DINOSAUR TRAIN Hatching Party online game last year, in which a player's real world intersects with a virtual environment online to help hatch a dinosaur egg. We're excited to expand our exploration of this space by launching our first augmented reality mobile app and continue PBS KIDS's leadership in using new technologies to further learning."

The game was funded by a grant from the Department of Education. It’s designed to supplement national standards for first and second grade math curricula, according to the official iTunes App Store description.

The FETCH! LUNCH RUSH free app can be found in the Games section of the iTunes App Store. It’s compatible with iPhone, iPod touch (4th generation), iPad 2 Wi-Fi, and iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G and requires iOS 4.0 or later.

Download FETCH! LUNCH RUSH (Free)