Pair release interactive augmented reality manual
Metaio, a provider of augmented reality (AR) software and solutions, and Audi, a global provider of luxury vehicles, have announced the release of the Audi A3 eKurzinfo augmented reality mobile application, available for free download on iOS devices.
After the success of the Audi eKurzinfo app for the Audi A1, which was nominated for the 2013 GSMA Global Mobile Awards for Best Mobile Solution for the Automotive Industry, Audi AG has extended the availability to the new Audi A3.
The new app can recognise over 300 individual elements of the Audi A3, from the insignia on the windshield wipers and entertainment system to actual engine components under the hood, in order to return relevant how-to information or even virtual overlays of maintenance instructions animated in real time 3D.
Metaio's cloud-based architecture pushes digital information directly to the device, meaning the user will never have to update the app.
The new design of the Audi A3 eKurzinfo app brings the most intuitive user experience with it. Using Metaio's latest 2D and 3D augmented reality tracking technology, the user positions the camera of the mobile device directly over individual vehicle elements, instantly detecting and returning information on the desired subject. For example, after scanning the engine compartment, the app would return information with an animated overlay showing how to locate the engine coolant and refill it to the appropriate level.
The Audi eKurzinfo app is available in English, German and Japanese.
In the future, Metaio sees visualisation technology decreasing the need for lengthy, costly and complex user manuals. Car owners should be able to access information instantly and directly from the car itself, said Dr. Thomas Alt, CEO of Metaio. He added: 'After the remarkable success of the first version of the eKurzinfo application, we are delighted to continue our partnership with the Audi AG. We see enormous potential in the field of interactive service applications. In the future it will be possible to automatically retrieve the specific information relevant in a certain situation.'
