14 DAY TRIAL // Recently, Qualcomm announced officially its plans to bring to the market an augmented reality platform and software development kit (SDK) to provide the base for a new gen of augmented reality applications. Initially, the solution should become available for handsets based on Google's Android operating system, while the SDK would arrive free of charge even for the distribution of commercial applications.
One of the first apps to benefit from Qualcomm’s augmented reality platform and SDK comes from Mattel, Inc., which brought the classic Rock ’Em Sock ’Em game back to life in a new form. The new solution is meant to expand the traditional play into the mobile environment through the use of augmented reality technology, while making the game more appealing to the current generation of consumers.
“Augmented reality represents a quantum leap in the mobile experience,” said Matt Grob, senior vice president of engineering and head of corporate research and development at Qualcomm. “By offering a no-charge SDK with state-of-the-art image detection and tracking technology, we help developers create the new generation of applications that are richer and more compelling than anything seen on the market today.”
Through augmented reality, computer-generated content can be superimposed over a live camera view of the world. The technology enables developers come up with more intuitive and interactive applications. A great deal of available solutions of the kind take advantage of the compass and GPS capabilities of handsets. According to Qualcomm, it should be able to offer a beta version of its SDK in autumn.
Qualcomm’s SDK was developed on world-class computer vision technology purchased from Imagination Computer Services GmbH not too long ago. According to the company, “vision-based augmented reality provides a greatly enhanced user experience by allowing computer graphics to be tightly aligned with real world objects. It enables developers to build games, extend print and TV media with interactive 3D content, and create educational applications that bridge the digital and real worlds.”