Augmented Reality SatNav?

Augmented Reality, the phrase used to describe the merging together of real world and digital information, it’s the future, isn’t it?

Whilst trying out an augmented reality App the other day I was initially impressed but then slightly underwhelmed with it’s real world practicality, I then started to think about really good ways that this could be implemented that could actually be used by millions.

Sat Nav, by now most of  us have it or have at least used it, I’ve noticed a trend towards more realistic looking maps with 3d buildings and landmarks, this I assume is to help the user know where they are and where they’re going!

Maybe Augmented Reality would be the ideal solution, imagine not just seeing a graphical representation of where you are, but what you can actually see yourself, except with directional overlays such as arrows showing you where to turn.

You would see a big tree on the left, and your satnav would display the same image except with an arrow telling you to turn left, which would allow you to have an obvious ‘landmark’ to aim for.

Because many SatNavs are mounted on the windscreen they could be fitted with a camera lens to ‘film’ the view, obviously it would be a good idea to have the option of traditional maps for night driving, or maybe a hybrid view option similar to the google maps page, this could be enabled just as the night colours function is now.

The biggest problem I can see with such a system is matching the live video feed to the on-board mapping, maybe the user would have to perform an initial setup routine to calibrate the device, or maybe future devices would be smart enough to know what angle they have been positioned with the use of tilt sensors?

Will this ever happen? who knows…is it actually a good idea?…well maybe not…(hey I’m just a Web Designer!) but I’m sure other brilliant AR applications will be heading our way pretty soon!