5 augmented reality apps, but no Pokemon

Thanks to the release of Pokémon GO, many users were able to experience the practical application of augmented reality (AR) in gameplay for the first time. I do not want to underestimate the merits of Niantic, who created this magnificent project, but I still note that it is far from the only one. Here is a small list of mobile applications that you should also look out for if you are interested in virtual worlds.

Ingress

It is, of course, necessary to start with the project of Niantic itself, which to some extent served as the basis for the development of Pokémon GO. You have to move around with your smartphone and capture strange portals that are tied to all sorts of real attractions. The game has two factions: Enlightened and Resistance, as well as dark matter, portals, artifacts, action points, levels and other tricky things designed to diversify the gameplay. In short, if you consider hunting Pokémon unworthy for your high intellectual level, then fight the dark energy that threatens our world.

Blippar

Blippar helps to learn more about the real things of the world around us. The app is a bit like Google's visual search and provides detailed information about objects captured by your smartphone's camera. You just need to point the lens at any point of interest or, for example, a gadget to get additional data, as well as a few related links.

Geocaching

Geocaching is an extremely popular entertainment among tourists, associated with the search for "treasures" hidden by other participants in the game. Most often, hiding places are located in places that are of natural, historical, cultural, geographic interest. Therefore, this game is not only interesting, but also very educational. Smartphones are actively used in geocaching, with the help of which participants find out the coordinates of bookmarks and receive encrypted hints.

IKEA catalog

Yes, this is not a game and there is no need to look for or catch up with anyone. But on the other hand, this is a good example of the practical application of augmented reality, which will soon become, I am sure, an integral part of our life. With this application, you can try on items from the IKEA catalog to your home interior.

Zombies, Run

Do you think that augmented reality can only be visual? Nothing like this! Sports app Zombies, Run! proves that sound hoaxes can be just as impressive. This program is for joggers who want to diversify their workouts a bit. Your runs will turn into an exciting adventure: you have to escape from zombies, look for caches with weapons and medicines, rescue friends and much more. Now it all depends on your speed and stamina.