Google Maps integrates AR Live View feature

An image of AR, AR, Google Maps integrates AR Live View feature

Google is rolling out its brand new augmented reality (AR) add-on to Maps to ensure you never get lost again.

The brand new AR option in Google Maps with display the real world from your phone’s camera whilst overlaying directions to your destination. Live View is available on both Android and iOS devices.

Located under the Walking directions section of Google Maps, the Live View option appears at the bottom of the screen. The just simply has to tap this icon and the app will guide you through the process of using the feature.

An image of AR, AR, Google Maps integrates AR Live View feature
Live View incorporates AR in a similar way to Pokemon Go. / Credit: Google

This feature is linked to Google Street View which will provide coordinates. Google has explained too that Visual Positioning System (VPS) technology is used in the new option.

Live View was demonstrated by Google last year at the I/O Conference. So long as a smartphone is equipped with ARCore and ARKit compatibility, it will be able to run the feature.

The fox doesn’t feature

An image of AR, AR, Google Maps integrates AR Live View feature
The AR fox has been left out of Live View. / Credit: Mashable

One aspect of the Live View option that didn’t make the cut, however, is an animated fox, showing you the way to your destination.

The furry guide leading the way was originally teased but apparently omitted from the final version of Live View because users expected more from it. Those who tested the app claimed that they expected the fox to show them exciting things on their journey and were let down by the fact that it was only there to direct them.

It’s been a busy few months for Google, with the tech giant announcing gaming platform Stadia this year, too.

An image of AR, AR, Google Maps integrates AR Live View feature

Luke Conrad

Technology & Marketing Enthusiast

Switching from monolithic web apps to microservices

Jon Hewines • 08th June 2023

Unlocking value in existing applications is highly desirable for CTOs, and one of the most effective way of doing so is to make the switch from monolithic architecture to microservices. It’s not a straightforward task, but the benefits can be huge.

BT launches 5G immersive spaces

Alex Foster • 26th May 2023

New connected spaces provide fully immersive experiences by combining interactive, 360° video content – complete with lights, sounds and smells – compatible with Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and Extended Reality (XR)

What are tomorrow’s cloud leaders thinking about today?

David Devine • 25th May 2023

Organisations today – from end-users to channel companies and industry groups – are all working to optimize their use of cloud technologies. Although there are increasing numbers of businesses seeing cloud’s benefits, and diminishing minorities operating on-premises, there are nonetheless hurdles that are common to all. OVHcloud’s annual conference at the London Stadium on June...

Job creation and learning from China

Arnold Ma • 22nd May 2023

With the barrage of negative headlines, however, it’s often easy to overlook how the introduction of and advances in new technologies can boost the economy by opening up job opportunities. And with reports of unemployment on the rise, as the UK’s economy struggles for growth momentum, this is more welcome news.