Monday, December 26, 2011

Success of Android platform in Mobile Application Development

The Success of Android platform in Mobile App Development


Author:Alisa Garner


Android OS powered devices are dominating the smart phone and tablet device market and this is proof of the popularity of Android open source platform. The Android platform is getting strong in the mobile application development market, while software development companies are getting much advantage through android application development.

[caption id="attachment_278" align="aligncenter" width="500"]The Success of Android platform in Mobile App Development Augmented-Reality-Technology-032 The Success of Android platform in Mobile App Development[/caption]

Smart phones work these days as pouch fit PCs as the android app development and its operating system offered by Google is bendy and is based on Linux Kernel. Apps can be simply created for smart phones without having to go through difficult measures and offers a great deal of profits on investment. There are many mobile application development companies which have approach to the front and are offering tremendously profitable and gainful android application development services. The android application development facilitates the business with many options for the making of apps. This is sure to increase the business and create more revenues. Android is an open source. The system of Android market facilitates free use of capital for programming the different app.

Android Versions so far:


Android has been updated many times since its release, these updates were to fix bugs and add new functionalities and facilities. The latest is Ice Cream Sandwich which is just release with some innovative features. One can see that each Android update is names after dessert.

  • Android 1.5 (Cup Cake)

  • Android 1.6 (Donut)

  • Android 2.0/2.1 (Eclair)

  • Android 2.2 (Froyo)

  • Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)

  • Android 3.0 (honeycomb)

  • Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich)


Benefits with Android Platform:



  • Android apps development is lucrative because it is open source.

  • Android Application developers are permitted to let their imagination untamed on Android SDK for developing original Android apps.

  • Android app developers have in the recent years, successfully created original app within the Android framework and also build third party mobile app, for Pocket PCs and other gadgets.

  • Java programming and C/C languages are used in Android apps development. Hence android developers find it easy who have skill working in these languages.

  • Android facilitates fast information gather and correct information.

  • You can hire android app developer and get your apps created with the professional android developers. But in that case be careful when you choose who you are hiring as average mobile app developer might result in total loss of money time and resources. So always choose experience android app Developer Company.

  • Testing and quality promise for Android app projects

  • Utilises its design


Mobile app developers working for the Android platform have an opportunity to publish their mobile solutions in Android Market, an application store launched by Google for mobile developers to distribute their Android-based apps. At the moment there are approximately 200,000 products available for sale in Android Market, which proves that Android platform is at the top of mobile application development market. There are many who are experienced in using Android SDK for gathering their client necessities. Many have even formed 2D and 3D apps with the help of Open GL technology. Some of the general applications consist of:

Games

Business apps

Security apps

Communication apps with location-based service

Utilities

Social Networking Apps

Barcode Scanning systems

Travel apps

Multimedia apps

The future of the Android platform looks bright for Android application developers who love to have access to everything. We can expect to see some interesting innovations both from Google and from the public as Android gains popularity. Every now and again new Android application development teams are showing up, and people are diverting to the Android phones because of its innovative design and capacity for game-changing applications.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/operating-systems-articles/the-success-of-android-platform-in-mobile-app-development-5417281.html

About the Author

Alisa Garner is professional content writer, working with mobile apps development Company expertise in iphone application development and android application development.

Android Mobile Application development

Android is the latest Trend in Mobile Application development


Author:Alisa Garner


Android smart phone has become very popular in very short time and because of that the need of android app development is also increasing day by day. There is a wonderful rise of application and new games, utilities and business apps with every passing day. The market is flourishing at the rate of 30 per cent every month while there are number of new gadgets and smartphones coming up every 3 to 4 days. Industry experts believe that the rush is mainly due to the reputation of excellent smartphones including Motorola Droid, Sony Xperia, Samsung galaxy series and certain HTC models.

[caption id="attachment_255" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Android Mobile Application development Augmented-Reality-Technology-025 Android Mobile Application development[/caption]

As the users of Android phones boost it's also increase the demand of android application development, a diverse market segment is being formed. In this time of tight competition no business can afford to ignore even a single customer and this involves catering to a marketplace segment that accesses the internet throughout the android phone. Now the websites need to be well-matched with the Android smartphone and apps of android version has become must for business firms. Some of the factors that are making android application development very successful as are bellow:

  • Android is Linux based. This facilitates ease of access to rich development surroundings and core functionality of the mobile.

  • Its very easy to use android app development tool.

  • It provides well-off browser amenities as well. This facilitates the android app developer to provide better services.

  • It provides the correct information required. It also allows fast information gathering.

  • The Google Android App. can be worked out either with the help of a professional Android app development service provider.

  • Android helps developers to redirect their time not in development but in understanding client\'s requirements.

  • The procedure of Android application development involves programming through Java. One can mix various apps and features on a smartphone with the GPS, accelerometer, and video camera. It also provides the android app developers to create new Android apps using different marketing strategies which are based on public attention.

  • Android Application developers are allowed to let their imagination wild on Android SDK for developing imaginative Android applications as per client needs.


The positives and the flexible capability have made Android apps the largest selling phone across the world. The collection of android applications that the phone possesses makes it exclusive in terms of reliability and usability. The most vital feature of Android is its compatibility with special phones. The Android phone works like a PC that extend the diverse functionalities and keep itself updated with the help of Android app development companies. If we talk about Android Apps market, it shows a significant growth in recent years and it is also predicted that the growth will be tremendous in coming years. After Google has bought Motorola mobility, Android has got even in stronger position.

Now the Android application development and Android applications are growing rapidly in market and users are getting good features which are within their budget. Android application developers are developing variety of applications with lots of features which are made for some specific purposes like social media apps, GPS apps, games apps, entertainment apps, weather apps, Travel apps, and many more which are available at one touch.

There is variety of Operating Systems and new trends among which android app development is getting popular.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/software-articles/android-is-the-latest-trend-in-mobile-application-development-5328748.html

About the Author

Alisa is professional content writer, working with mobile apps development Company expertise in iphone application development and android application development.

Augmented Reality TV Coming Soon

Augmented Reality TV Coming To Your Home Soon


by Jessica Drew


Recently a science game show in Germany, called Galileo, ran an interactive quiz through the TV for any viewer who downloaded Junaio, an augmented reality app for smartphones. What is this exactly? Basically, if you were a viewer, you could download and launch the app on your phone, hold your phone's camera up facing your TV and select answers to the multiple choice questions displayed on the TV by tapping the answer on your smartphone.

[caption id="attachment_251" align="aligncenter" width="620"]Augmented Reality TV Coming To Your Home Soon Augmented-Reality-Technology-024 Augmented Reality TV Coming To Your Home Soon[/caption]

The image recognition software in the Junaio app detected the answers a viewer chose and automatically submitted it to Galileo's servers. Viewers instantly knew if they were right or wrong and the show's producers could display how well players as a whole were doing in real time. It's as if the smartphone app, in conjunction with the game show's display, can turn your TV into a touch screen interface.

Techies call this augmented reality and this type of viewing experience, tested in Germany, will undoubtedly become a mainstream, worldwide phenomenon. Why? In an age where everyone knows at least one person addicted to Farmville on Facebook, it's evident people love socially connecting through games and augmented realities. Also because the experiment was a huge hit.

The word "Galileo" was number one in German Twitter trends the night the show aired and during the well-promoted experiment the viewership of the game show jumped to a whopping 14 % percent of the entire market share for 14 to 49 year olds. Television producers cannot ignore numbers like those and you can bet augmented reality TV is coming to your home soon.

This is another example of Augmented Reality getting more useful and another demonstration of broadcast TV facilitating the active audience by giving them an opportunity to join in. This is more than test message voting, this is live at home audience participating from the living room and advances in this area could open up a range of possibilities across TV schedules. TV shows like "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" and others could harness this, but so could any TV content that could be enhanced through audience interaction. Once augmented reality TV does become more popular, can you imagine how Hollywood writers and other creative professionals are going to use it in conjunction with some of the craziest reality TV shows on air? The possibilities are nearly endless and it should interesting to say the least. 2012 is an election year and the televised political debates could use this technology in the debates!

Jessica Drew is a freelance writer and editor who blogs about a variety of money making topics such as personal finance, frugal living and credit cards.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

What Is The iPhone Augmented Reality?

What Is The iPhone Augmented Reality?


By Oliver Whitham


Augmented reality first appeared over 50 years ago, more recently it appeared in high-tech battle gear for soldiers. But now with the versatile iPhone there is a growing number of applications and games which overlay a virtual world on top of the real world.

[caption id="attachment_249" align="aligncenter" width="600"]What Is The iPhone Augmented Reality? Augmented-Reality-Technology-023 What Is The iPhone Augmented Reality?[/caption]

But what is augmented reality, what are it's uses, and why is it suddenly such a big deal?

To start with augmented reality really is as simple as displaying digital objects or information on top of a real world view. This is not particularly new, a simple example would be of the information shown 'on the field' during a football game. This is a great example of how computer generated information can be overlaid on a real world situation to provide highly relevant information in a visible but non-obtrusive way.

This has military applications, for instance having the location of enemies overlaid on 'battle goggles', and entertainment applications, such as alien invasions happening over your own cityscape. More practical uses exist however, and augmented reality can be used in tour guides, to tell you about the stars, or even help tell you about specific objects through simple object recognition.

The uses of augmented reality are only just beginning to appear in day-to-day life. However as object recognition becomes more and more intelligent, it is highly possible that games will alter the existing world, rather than just overlay new images on top of it.

Instead of just having static images and information overlaid on the real world, there may be programs that appear which alter the current landscape. These could turn your current skyline in to a futuristic landscape with buildings changed to incorporate futuristic stylings in to current structures and not just adding futuristic objects

Augmented Reality has become a huge deal over the last year for one simple reason. Apple created an update which allowed third-party apps to use the iPhone camera as a video camera. This new medium suddenly gave creative application developers a structure with which they could combine reality with virtual reality. This has spawned a new generation of iPhone games, but on top of that it has created the possibility for an entirely new kind of game and application style. From this new technology there is a strong possibility that even more imaginative uses will be found for combining the real and virtual world.

As the years go by I foresee augmented reality becoming a more and more integral part of day-to-day life, however until that time comes I will enjoy the augmented iPhone games, which are essentially what 'Pong' is to 'Call of Duty' today!

Augmented reality might have just started to appear on the iPhone, but it is already planned for inclusion in the first major iPhone MMORPG. We look forward to the augmented reality future that will bring a true virtual reality to the gaming world.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Oliver_Whitham
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Is-The-iPhone-Augmented-Reality?&id=6111065

 

 

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Augmented Reality - Tools Used Today

Augmented Reality - Tools Used Today





Augmented Reality (AR) is the blending of the real and the virtual. It is when virtual elements are augmented by computer programs and associated with reality. In this article, we will have a look at some of the AR tools used today.

Slowly but certainly, the augmented reality is paving a way of virtual dependence. Technologies are adopting the augmented reality because of its high interactivity and efficiency. Our routine way of doing things is going to change in the coming years.

[caption id="attachment_213" align="aligncenter" width="468"]Augmented Reality - Tools Used Today Augmented-Reality-Technology-038 Augmented Reality - Tools Used Today[/caption]

Face Tracking Technology


Face tracking technology is used mostly on cameras and mobile phones. It allows the camera to recognize and track a human face. Taking photos has become so much easy and simplified while improving quality. The camera automatically adjusts the focus, exposure and color balance.

Virtual Mirror


A lot of companies are implementing the use of virtual mirror on their websites. It is a 3D technology which allows online viewers who are sitting in front of their computer, to virtually try the latest products. A webcam is needed for it to work. For example, several companies selling sunglasses and eyeglasses have been using this interactive technology to market their products. This is also relevant in clothing. There are mirror-like displays in shops where customers can see themselves wearing different clothing items. There is no need for a fitting room and the technology allows you to modify your cloth color and appearance. It is also applicable to footwear where various shoes of different colors can be tried by just standing in front of the virtual mirror.

Intelligent Smartphones


Another example of the augmented reality is through the use of intelligent smartphones whereby you just point your Smartphone at a building or roadside and additional information instantly appear on your phone such as current location, nearest hotel, restaurant menus, wind direction, compass among others.

Interactive Marketing


One of the most important tools used, in relation to augmented reality in marketing, is interactive products animations. Using digital photo studios, marketers can instantly create 360 degree animations and 3D animations of products, irrespective of size and weight. Online customers can rotate such virtual products animations using their computer mouse. This is quite similar to actually holding the product and looking at it through every possible angle. With such appealing interactive animations, the rate of customer conversion definitely gets boosted.

The future of Augmented Reality


Augmented reality is gradually changing the world. We can already guess how the future might be; with wearable gestural interface, you might be able to do everything with your hand or with your voice. For example, tomorrow you might take photos with just your hands, you might play multiplayer games in holograms battle fields ...the possibilities are endless.

The author is currently working as English Copywriter at PackshotCreator, the interactive solution provider.

Log on to: http://www.packshot-creator.com


Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Augmented Reality: An Eye-Popping New e-Learning Tool

Augmented Reality: An Eye-Popping New e-Learning Tool


Documentation and e-Learning (Part 5): Augmented Reality: An Eye-Popping New e-Learning Tool

Author: Dave Boggs



 

As I described last time, dynamic web data and web-cam feeds are marvelous ways to hold learners' interest, by exposing them to live real-world resources. This is especially true in subjects like astronomy, geology, and marine biology. But how can an e-Learning system teach people to repair a car, run a factory-floor machine, or do some other complex real life activity? Computer simulations can demonstrate such things, but real interactive learning experiences would be better.

[caption id="attachment_246" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Augmented Reality: An Eye-Popping New e-Learning Tool Augmented-Reality-Technology-022 Augmented Reality: An Eye-Popping New e-Learning Tool[/caption]

That's where a powerful new training technology called Augmented Reality (AR) can help. What you are about to see may seem unbelievable, but people are doing it now with available software on regular PCs. And their AR-based content can be delivered today on the SyberWorks Training Center or any other LMS that supports web-based courses.

Mixing Real and Virtual

Augmented Reality is the mixing of live web-cam feeds with computer-generated data, images, UI elements, and text. This is NOT the same as the pre-packaged special effects that Hollywood has been feeding us for decades. AR mixes dynamic computer-generated images with real-time feeds from PC web-cams.

Companies have been developing this technology since the early 1990s. And you can discover more about it by Googling "augmented reality" PLUS:

• microsoft
• google
• adobe
• flash
• toolkit
• e-learning

You'll discover a lot. At this writing, for example, YouTube hosted some 8,000 videos about AR. And when I did those searches, here are four of the best AR demos that I found (be sure to turn your PC speakers on):

• Here's a popular demo from GE (click the "See How It Works" link in the window that opens): ge.ecomagination.com/smartgrid/?c_id=googaugreal&gclid=CPP14ZXW-Z4CFag65QodPGAWJA#/augmented_reality

• This BMW video may be the best example I found of using AR to teach users a real-life process (car repair), and then guide trained repairmen on the shop floor:    youtube.com/watch?v=P9KPJlA5yds&feature=related

• Imagine how you might apply the technique shown in this next video to the printed materials that your students use, or that instructors display on monitor screens:    youtube.com/watch?v=iT2ek8N0VlY&NR=1

• Homeland Security even has this high-end firefighting/haz-mat application, which trains professionals realistically, but without exposing them to harm:        fdnntv.com/review.asp_Q_reviewID_E_6_A_title_E_Augmented_Reality_Training_Unit

And if you want to see more, here you go:

video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6523761027552517909#

video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6523761027552517909#docid=-7208350155329800209

brandrepublic.com/Discipline/Digital/News/938024/google

youtube.com/watch?v=1_7NW_u3VFo&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=29OSzQbxpcQ&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=5M-oAmBDcZk&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=79Lx87MtcC0&NR=1

youtube.com/watch?v=FENBx1h4cic&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=HTYeuo6pIjY&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=IZOeRhQdew8&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=rgXzdUb_fug&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=RsehKGygClQ&feature=fvw

youtube.com/watch?v=sxr8oaRUq6k&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=v9Zl1e5pAHA&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=yFwzFby2eNo&feature=related

youtube.com/watch?v=ZKw_Mp5YkaE&feature=related

Many AR applications use available software and web cams. Some (such as the Homeland Security and car-repair examples) involve special goggles. But many more let people view AR content directly on PC screens. In most of these, users hold black-and-white pattern cards (called "markers") in front of their PC web cams. These markers tell PCs which images to display, the data to show about them, and how this "virtual content" should change as students move the markers in front of the web cams.

But while viewing AR videos, please think about how the underlying capabilities shown might work in your training projects. This video of virtual water bouncing off a poor researcher

(  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NAH5vlkgkk&feature=related ) brings a smile, but its important point is the "physical" real-time interaction between the man and the dynamic computer-generated objects.

So instead of bouncing virtual water off students' heads, your next AR project might let automobile designers see how air flows around a car model that they hold in their hands... and to explore how this flow changes as they move the model within its virtual AR wind-tunnel. And without any extra development effort, it could also reveal the differing aerodynamics of alternative car designs. All without actually building wind-tunnels or testing full-sized vehicles in special labs.

Ready to Try?

If you'd like to explore AR more deeply, this site:  youtube.com/watch?v=jU6PcBS1pWw&NR=1&feature=fvwp  describes one way to create AR applications using Adobe Flex and a 3D-graphics program like Google SketchUp, Maya, or Blender. The presentation is fast and you must be familiar with web coding. But if you're technically minded and seriously interested, go for it!

And at the end, it mentions how to incorporate AR material into web sites and online e-Learning screens. This hints that AR content could be used today on the SyberWorks Training Center or any other LMS that handles web-based courses.

Born in research labs, AR has been migrating into commercial, advertising, and training applications... and even to individual content-creators' desktops. You would do well to follow its progress if your e-Learning products would be more effective with:

• Computer-generated content displayed above instructor's class notes when students view them on classroom monitors, or above students' printed training materials on their own PC screens.
• Online course controls, navigation buttons, and other informative images overlaid on real-world videos (like our car-repair example).

Whether teaching "book topics" or the most complex real-time processes, your users might benefit from AR's ability to help:

• Teach learners and hold their interest.
• Certify their competency (including in "real-time test-bed" environments).
• Guide them through related tasks on-the-job, after training.

Someday, perhaps, your learners could be as lucky as that BMW repairman we saw earlier. I believe that we'll all soon include at least some AR content in our training programs and user documentation... either because we want to, or because our competitors beat us to it.

About the Author:

Dave Powell is Documentation Manager for SyberWorks, Inc., a privately-held supplier of e-Learning software and training. For the past 15 years, he has written award-winning marketing collateral and user documentation for hardware/software companies like PictureTel, 3Com, Philips Medical Systems, Polaroid, and SyberWorks. Prior to that, he edited and wrote for publications like Computerworld, Infosecurity News, Networking Management, Digital Design, LightWave, Popular Computing, Harvard Business Review, and Leaders. (During that time, he also served as an author and Editorial Advisor for Sesame Street.)

About SyberWorks, Inc.

SyberWorks, Inc. is a leader in the custom e-Learning Solutions and Learning Management System/Learning Content Management System (LMS/LCMS) industries for Fortune 1000 corporations, law enforcement, healthcare, and other industries. Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, the company serves the multi-billion-dollar e-Learning market. Since 1995, SyberWorks has developed and delivered unique and economical solutions to create, manage, measure, and improve e-Learning programs at companies and organizations in the United States, Canada, Europe, and around the world.




Occupation: CEO of SyberWorks

About the Author: Dave Boggs is the founder and CEO of SyberWorks, Inc (www.syberworks.com). He has been involved with computer-based and web-based training for more than twelve years. Before founding SyberWorks, Dave was the VP of Sales and Business Development for Relational Courseware. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Union College in Schenectady, NY, and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. The Boggs e-Learning Chronicle Dave Boggs also writes the Boggs e-Learning Chronicle, which reports on trends, provides observations, and information about e-learning and web-based training.


Saturday, November 19, 2011

Android 4.0 VS iPhone iOS 5

Android 4.0 VS iOS 5 Let You Know Which You Want


Author:pelegao


After the release of iOS 5 and Android 4.0, people always talk about which is better. It is really difficult to say that iOS 5 is better than Android 4.0 or Android 4.0 is better than iOS 5. Today I will compare the features, advantage, disadvantage, hardware and other features from the two most popular mobile operation systems. I believe that you will know more about them after read my article.

[caption id="attachment_242" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Android 4.0 VS iPhone iOS 5 Augmented-Reality-Technology-021 Android 4.0 VS iPhone iOS 5[/caption]

From iOS 4 to iOS 5, we can not find big surprise, instead we can see the perfect in details, such as drop-down menu and other new features borrow from Android. That maybe because iOS is already powerful and perfect. People can not find any big disadvantage on it.

In contrast, Android 4.0 has more improvement than the previous version. We not only see the redesigned interface and many upgrades in details, but also we notice the integration of Android mobile phone and Android Tablet in the brand new Android 4.0. Of course, you can understand this as the integration of Android and this is a good news for developers and hardware producers. However, in today's mobile phone area, all the customers care about the apps more than hardware, a well-developed platform can attract more app developers. This will brings more business to them.

As we talking about above, apps is now more important than hardware and game plays a big role in app. In iOS 5 and Android 4.0, which one provides a better game experience for users? I think iOS 5 is better than Android 4.0 now. The game experience in iOS is absolutely better than Android. This is not only because iOS has its own Game Center, but also because the hardware of the devices. For example, the new iPhone 4s has dual-core Graphics processor, while in Android phones, only Samsung Galaxy nexus is comparable. In Android 4.0, we only find the new 3D driver. Now I can not say how much it can improve the game experience.

In the new iOS 5 and iPhone 4s, Apple's iCloud becomes a highlights. In fact, it is developed from MobileMe service, which aims to keep the consistency of data from different platform. In addition to the new features, such as photos, bookmarks, presentation's sync, it also can sync your apps from iOS 5 to Cloud.

Although Android 4.0 does not provide this kind of service, users can also enjoy the convenient brought by cloud services. Now Android users can update and sync data with multi devices in 24 hours and Android also provides Gmail contact backup and other services.

Though there are many rumors about the NFC in the new generation of iPhone, Apple still choose Bluetooth 4.0 as the way of its data exchange in close distance. While in the Android 4.0, Google brings us Android Beam function. It can help users to share app, webpage, map and video with NFC tech. It is definitely the trends in future.

That is not only because google published its Google Wallet Service, but also many producers from different area add NFC tech to their products, especially Nokia, the biggest mobile phone producer, add NFC as a standard function to their mobile phones. We can see clearly that NFC is becoming the trends in future. So, even though iPhone 4s does not add NFC, Apple will use NFC in their next generation of iPhone for sure, just as the rumor. What is different is that Apple may show his creative and use it to give users a different experience.

I believe that many people may think that in future, except better hardware, what\'s the future of smart phone. So Apple released its voice assistant service, siri, which is a really creative thing that provides users a totally different experience, and become the focus of the smartphone field.

While, back to the topic, Apple releases siri is under a certain situation that hardware update can not attract users' attention any more. Just like iPhone 4's facetime, Apple always can find the advantage of the design to show their personality. However, after the first few month's fresh, I don't think people will speak to their smart phone on the street.

Voice assistant appear on Android system long before. But due to the limitation on content, voice assistant on Android is far behind iPhone 4s's Siri. Even though Android's voice assistant also has a nice performance. It can help you to make a call, send SMS, open GPS, play music and take a note and so on.

SNS is now play a big role in all the smart phone producers. In this section, both Android and iOS have their own killer. IOS 5 only built-in Twitter and iMessage function can be used after you turn on the iPhone 4s, do not need to register and it can match your friends automatically.

While in Android 4.0, Google releases new function People, it makes the contact as the focus and it integrates Twitter, LinkedIn, Google and communication tools and it will support custom third party service in future.

I have to say that multitask gestures is used more and more than before in the two operation systems. For example, in iOS 5 you can turn off an app by folding four fingers and without using the home button. So it is possible to cancel the home button in future.

In conclusion, Android 4.0 has more upgrades and update than iOS 5 and it has more powerful hardware. But the two mobile operation system have their own advantage and disadvantage and different user experience. Users will get their own point of view on them. Just as the saying that Android system tells you what you can do, but iOS do that for you. Here I can tell which one is better than the other one and the competition between Android and iOS will becomes more and more intense for sure. So when you choose smart phone yourself, choose the one you like.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cell-phones-articles/android-40-vs-ios-5-let-you-know-which-you-want-5403969.html

About the Author

Hello everyone, my name is Pele. Hope you like my article. Here i recommend you some software for you to better enjoy your iOS devices. Video Converter for Mac, it can help you to convert videos on your Mac computer for iPhone, iPod, iPad easily and fast. iPhone to Mac, DVD to iPod Converter to help you watch movies on iPod.

Android Activity Classes Explained in Detail

Android Development - Android Activity Classes Explained in Detail


Author:Syed Shahzad




[caption id="attachment_238" align="aligncenter" width="631"]Android Development – Android Activity Classes Explained in Detail Augmented-Reality-Technology-020 Android Development – Android Activity Classes Explained in Detail[/caption]

As a fledgling Android developer one of the first things you'll need to do is get your head around Activity Classes. We can't overstate the importance of this. A sharp, fluid understanding of how each class interacts with each other class, and the end result for end users will not only speed along your project dev time, but open up new possibilities for your programming. So let's take a look at these in some detail.

  • onCreate(): This is called when the activity first starts up. You can use it to perform one-time initialization such as launching the user interface. onCreate() utilizes one parameter that is either null or state information previously saved by the onSaveInstanceState( ) method, discussed below.

  • onStart(): This indicates the activity is about to be displayed to the user.

  • onResume(): This is called when the user can start interacting with the activity. This is a good place to start animations and music.

  • onRestart(): If this is called, it indicates your activity is being redisplayed to the user from a stopped state.

  • onFreeze(): Allows you to save your current state when one activity is being paused and another one resumes to interact with the user. After being paused, the system may at any time need to stop (or even outright kill) your application in order to claim resources for the current foreground activity. If this should happen, the state you supply here will later be recalled with onCreate(), when the user starts a new instance of your activity.

  • onPause(): This runs when the activity is about to go into the background, usually because another activity has been launched in front of it. This is where you should save your program's persistent state, such as a database record being edited.

  • onStop(): This is called when your activity is no longer visible to the user and it won't be needed for a while. If memory is tight, onStop() may never be called (the system may simply terminate your process).

  • onDestroy(): This is called right before your activity is destroyed. If memory is tight, onDestroy( ) may never be called (the system may simply terminate your process).

  • onSaveInstanceState(Bundle): Android calls this method to allow the activity to save per-instance states, such as a cursor position within a text field. Usually you won't need to override it because the default implementation saves the state for user interface controls automatically.

  • onRestoreInstanceState(Bundle): This is called when the activity is being reinitialized from a state previously saved by the onSaveInstanceState() method. The default implementation restores the state of your user interface.


I hope this brings you up to speed on Android Activity Classes. The more familiar you are with Activity Classes and how and they affect the end user experience, the more successful your Android apps development will be.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/programming-articles/android-development-android-activity-classes-explained-in-detail-4122992.html

About the Author

Sourcebits is a professional iPhone, iPad and Android Developer. We have the expertise and unmatched experience in Android Development. We build best-selling applications tailored to client specifications for various platforms like iPhone, iPad, Android, BlackBerry, and Palm Pre

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Android Applications Supported by TEGA v2

Android Applications Supported by TEGA v2, Offers Dual Boot into 1.6

By greymatter india


In the hype of Android applications development, Windows world has reliability only for business users. After releases lined up for Android-based, iOS-based, and RIM-based tablets, people were hands-on-the-heart to check what’s going to be for Windows, next. With looks similar to just released ViewSonic ViewPad 10, TEGA V2 is more of a netbook that has lost its keyboard. Again the 10.1 inch display working on 1024 x 600 resolutions gives user a complete feel of working on a touch screen netbook. Its main hardware features include an Intel Atom N455 processor, 2GB of RAM, and a 32GB SSD that boots Windows 7 Home Premium. What makes it portable is its 0.5-inch / 1.9-pound slate that sets itself apart by being one of the thinnest and lightest out there.




[caption id="attachment_236" align="aligncenter" width="512"]Android Applications Supported by TEGA v2 Augmented-Reality-Technology-019 Android Applications Supported by TEGA v2[/caption]

Its elegant combination of Black front and aluminum back, gives a closer feeling to the iPad than any other plastic tablets. Talking about its sleek look, it is only 0.02-inches thicker than the iPad, and a noticeable 0.2-inches thinner than the 2goPad and the Nav9. Due to its sleekness, there is no room for Ethernet port, however, it compensates with two USB sockets, a microSD slot, a mini-VGA, as well as a combo headphone / mic jack.



Hardware specifications:



  • CPU: Intel Atom N455, 1.6 GHz (single core) + GMA 3150 Graphics card

  • RAM: 2 GB + DDR3

  • Storage: 32 GB SSD

  • Screen: 10.1-inch, wide-angle, 1024×600

  • OS: Windows 7 Premium / Android

  • Slots/ ports: 2-USB, Mini VGA, microSD, audio, SIM (3G)

  • Battery: integrated, 3,500 mAh, 3.5 - 4 hour real-world battery life

  • Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, 3G (GSM)

  • Webcam: 1.3 MP

  • Dimensions: 10.8 x 6.7 x 0.63 inches, 1.9 lbs.


Windows and the touch compatibility


Apart from hardware features, you would be surely expecting the review on its touch screen sensitivity. Let me assure you, it has just the right sensitivity. Windows 7 works with touch better than you might expect. Light taps on the display are all it takes to make selections and gentle swipes are enough to scroll down the page or browse through pictures. The accelerometer is used for auto-rotating the display to the desired orientation, and as this feature is incorporated internally to work very well with only a slight delay observed in the process. While the capacitive screen does make it easier to get around with a finger and type on the on-screen keyboard, we wish there would have been an active digitizer to recognize handwriting making it easier for stylus input.


The fast SSD leads to good Windows Performance. The problem with all windows touch tablet is that Windows 7 is touch capable but not touch-centric. All Windows programs can handle touch operation, however, only a few are written for touch screens. Still, there are programs that cannot handle touch operations and for them you need to use external keyword and mouse. No wonder, why keyboard and mouse attachment options are provided. For those facing situations where running Windows programs is mandatory, TEGA v2 is a perfect fit. Much like Droid, Tegatech has included Back, Home, and Power buttons. Hitting ‘Home’ button would take you to the Windows desktop minimizing all your open applications. Since it’s a toggle, tapping again will bring you back to where you were opening back the minimized applications.



Running Android


Did I tell you that TEGA v2 dual boots into Android 1.6? Tegatech is working on 2.2 version currently as the older version doesn’t support newer Android applications and the apps that work on older version cannot adjust to the 10.1 inch screen. Moreover, for some reason, Wi-Fi doesn’t work with Google O/S whereas it works fine with Windows 7. Hope, Tegatech would soon release drivers for Wi-Fi to work on Android application development. Till then, Dual boot is much of a novelty than something useful. Also, TEGA v2 has an Intel processor which is why open source version of Droid is being used.


Conclusion


TEGA v2 is a solid device as a whole, mainly manufactured for people who cannot work without Windows. While iPad 2 is a super cool device, TEGA v2 will likely create a product that will meet most business needs. Try out this great tablet ordering one from Tegatech website and availing special discounts as their promotional offer.


Source: http://www.greymatterindia.com/articles/android-applications-supported-by-TEGA-v2-Offers-dual-boot-into-1-6.php

About Author :  Grey Matter India (GMI) Technologies Pvt. Ltd. is a leading IT services and solutions provider that excels at providing offshore software development, Android application development, and wireless application development service.

Articles Source: Android Applications Supported by TEGA v2, Offers Dual Boot into 1.6

Android Tablet 3 Programming : Surging Demand

Android Tablet 3 Programming : Surging Demand But Increasing Vulnerabilities


By greymatter india


Performing quick tasks on the go is now possible. Thanks to the development in the mobile industry. Smart phones are indeed a good option; however, they cannot deliver a better performance, resolution and ease, when compared to the tablet devices. Tablet market is surging with Android tablet programming needs. After the flagship release of Galaxy Tab 10.1, various tablet programmers began with app development for Android tablets. In terms of market figure, Android acquires a share of 16.26 percent.

[caption id="attachment_68" align="aligncenter" width="695" caption="Augmented Reality Technology : Android Tablet 3 Programming : Surging Demand"]Augmented Reality Technology : Android Tablet 3 Programming : Surging Demand[/caption]

Android tablet 3 programmingoffers high scalability. Due to this quality, the tablets belonging to Android platform accommodate itself in all industries. However, using Android for business purpose is a bitter pill to gulp. A few months ago, media raised an issue concerning users about Android vulnerabilities, but the issue still persists. Researchers say they have uncovered vulnerabilities in Android’s popular component, which may be exploited to do things like disabling the apps. A malicious app could be created to disable any app or the anti-virus itself.

Moreover, HTC is embarrassed due to Android vulnerabilities and sloppy Android Tablet application programming techniques must take the blame. It means that any application given access to the internet can take a look at the confidential information stored in the smart phones such as email addresses as well as the GPS location. Trevor Eckhart, a smart phone enthusiast, raised it a while ago but wasn’t taken seriously. Apparently, when no solution evolved, Eckhart decided to go public with full details. The warning says that the vulnerabilities lie in all HTC smart phones and even in Android tablet devices.

While Google finds a fix to it, we’ll take the story further with Android’s new release, a copy of its flagship tablet. Believing that bigger is not always better, Android is planning a release one its slightly small tablet with a slightly decreased price. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 is a shrunk-down version with a better deal all around, although iPad 2 is the greatest. One has to believe that Samsung is making some of the best looking tablets with no physical buttons in the front. It is bright and reflective with 1280-by-800-pixel display with same resolution as its bigger version. Since the 8.9 is a smaller screen, the dense pixels are more pleasing to the eye.

The new tablet is extremely slim and light-weight. It’s a Wi-Fi-only tab and delivers the performance same as its older version. It works on Honeycomb 3.1 and possesses no updates ready pertaining to Honeycomb 3.2. Unfortunately, Honeycomb doesn’t own enough apps. This fact opens up a wide prospect for custom Android Tablet application programming. Although Samsung insists that thousands of phone apps run well on its tablet, thousands of others don’t. It’s difficult to chase 90,000+ apps for iPad tablets; however, developers must try and escape this inferiority through dedicated Android Tablet Application Development.

Besides, Adobe system is taking a plunge with about six of its new programs for Android Honeycomb tablets including the Photoshop. The programs are to debut in November and Adobe plans to launch them under a new Adobe Touch Apps brand, tied with new Adobe Creative Cloud: a service for sharing files. Although Android demand surges, the tablet world is not ready to accept Android as a full-fledged and fully secured tablet platform. With a minimum number of applications, Android 3.0 Tablet App Development is still a progressive field.

About the Author: Grey Matter India (GMI) Technologies Pvt. Ltd.is a prominent name in IT services and solutions provider that excels at providing customized social networking development, custom development of Community portals, and so on.

Articles Source: Android Tablet 3 Programming: Surging Demand But Increasing Vulnerabilities

Augmented Reality Unveiled for Symbian Applications

Live in Augmented Reality Unveiled for Symbian Applications

By greymatter india



Just going through good news for Nokia owners, I came across a thought as to so much have been achieved by a mobile world. Well, I am thoroughly excited to experience augmented reality on my Symbian. Yes, Layar launched its augmented reality version for Symbian applications. I am sure just like me, many of you must have thought of the disappearing charm belonging to Nokia Phones. Listening to Android and iPhone, I had almost lost faith in Symbian application development. However, Layar has rebuilt the faith proving there are still millions of Symbian Smartphone owners out there, representing a lucrative market for developers.



[caption id="attachment_58" align="aligncenter" width="243" caption="Augmented Reality Technology : Live in Augmented Reality Unveiled for Symbian Applications"]Augmented Reality Technology : Live in Augmented Reality Unveiled for Symbian Applications[/caption]


With tons of Layars to choose from on OVI store, you can surely expect same functionality the Android and iPhone versions offer. All Symbian^3 phones are supported (Nokia N8, C7, C6-01 and E7) as well as few S60 5th Edition devices (Nokia N97 and N97 mini).

Augmented reality is something that is being heard since early 2009; however, the question arises as to why Layar thought launching its Augmented Reality browser to Nokia-based OS so late? It has been on Android and iOS for a long time now. Is it that difficult to develop a Symbian version or is there something else? I guess, we’ll soon find out.

What is augmented reality?


According to Wikipedia, our office knowledge sensei, an augmented reality is a term for a live direct or indirect view of a physical real-world environment whose elements are augmented by virtual computer-generated imagery.

People who are new to the entire concept of augmented reality; here I bring-in explanation to what it is. Augmented reality enables users to overlay digital content onto a view of the real world. As its name suggests, developers create individual ‘layers’ for the app, each of which does something different. For example, using your handset’s camera, GPS, accelerometer and digital compass, the handset can bring up information about a local business, including local tweet, shopping data, travel data, and much more.

There are various layers like weather layer that fetches the weather forecast in your city; office layer finds more details about the office and satellite tracks that spot satellites in space. A simple example of one of the augmented reality layer is, point your camera to a location and through GPS and compass you can get detail of the place.

Features of Layar for Symbian phone applications are as follows:




  • Facilitates discovering places and find details about the places from the list of layers that are both free and paid.

  • Switch between live and augmented reality mode easily.

  • Explore 3D objects, sounds, videos and amazing interactivity with different Layers.

  • Get directions to a nearby Layer location easily.

  • Change between the genre of old and new look of the places.

  • Share the place, take a picture and post it on twitter.

  • Discover restaurants, bars, shops and houses nearby.

  • Learn history of a particular building or a monument.



An Insight to Layar


Layar adopts simple things. It takes a streaming image input from your mobile phone’s camera, and adds one, or even a number of layers onto it, also knighted filters. With these filters you can find Pizza shops, bars, pubs, interesting art, or even, houses in the vicinity. With 400 layers and more, I am sure you will find something useful for yourself.

Layar’s own local search engine can be called as one of the most basic but significant filters. The layer does a Google Maps search, and surrounds you with the results on a grid. It asks you for only two things to fetch you what you need: the keyword and the distance. Layar and Google will initially show you the name and distance of the object searched for. In case you need more information, just focus on a specific information and press OK button. You’ll get the address, phone number and can even plot your route.

Layar has also proved efficient when I travel, I now use these layers to learn the history of Italy or Egypt, or simply which way to walk to the nearest subway station. Just point your camera and follow the virtual signs!


About the Author:Grey Matter India (GMI) Technologies Pvt. Ltd. is a leading IT services and solutions provider that excels at providing web application development Symbian application development, wireless application development, and offshore mobile application development service.

Articles Source: Live in Augmented Reality Unveiled for Symbian Applications

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Augmented Reality Technology - Mobile Marketing Infusion

Augmented Reality - Mobile Marketing Infusion


 

By Gianluigi Cuccureddu





* Real-time enhancement of reality, connecting the "offline" world with the "online" world.

* Real-time creation of a more integrated experience between those two worlds.

* Real-time enriching our surroundings with meta-data through our mobile devices.

I do believe these are the opportunities and purposes where Mobile Marketing and the role of mobiles devices have been waiting for, enabled by: Augmented Reality.

[caption id="attachment_48" align="aligncenter" width="258" caption="Augmented Reality Technology : Augmented Reality - Mobile Marketing Infusion"]Augmented Reality Technology : Augmented Reality - Mobile Marketing Infusion[/caption]

Augmented Reality is defined as follow on Wikipedia:

"Augmented reality (AR) is a field of computer research which deals with the combination of real-world and computer-generated data (virtual reality), where computer graphics objects are blended into real footage in real time. The term is believed to have been coined in 1990 by Thomas Caudell, an employee of Boeing at the time.

At present, most AR research is concerned with the use of live video imagery which is digitally processed and "augmented" by the addition of computer-generated graphics. Advanced research includes the use of motion-tracking data, fiducial markers recognition using machine vision, and the construction of controlled environments containing any number of sensors and actuators. [...]"

Mobile marketing has been predicted to be a -future- trend. Looking at figures released by eMarketer and other firms, mobile is growing, advertising budgets and the usage are on the rise.

Still, I don't think mobile marketing has found its true destiny and purpose.

Thinking in terms of SWOT- and Five-Forces-analysis, the PLC etc, there are challenges to overcome like the regulatory and infrastructural restrictions, substitutes, changing consumer behavior and so on.

Is the value proposition of mobile usage optimal and significantly differentiated?

But what if the mobile device is going to provide new experiences, integrate and enhance the two worlds in a much more relevant, useful, entertaining and unique way, powered by Augmented Reality?

It will infuse business oppertunities, mobile usage and its value proposition and the benefits / needs of a  real-time connection for the mobile users.

Fundaments must be set in motion to advance this innovation cycle, which is already happening of course.

Just a few examples:

* Apple is going to allow developers to release Augmented Reality applications when iPhone OS 3.1. is rolled out,

* Investments in technology and applications by innovative companies (f.e. look at the initiatives by AT&T) and

* The 27 telecom ministers of the European Union have agreed on new laws which will arise a bigger mobile market.

Many fields and industries can benefit from Augmented Reality and the unique experiences it will create for their users, think about industries like gaming, real-estate, travel, GPS, retail, and many more which can tap into the seemingly endless creation of applications (through mobile).

Universities and innovators are already working on applications, below you'll find three examples, the first one relates to GPS, the second is a great real-estate application and the third is a social tagging service.

What is your opinion and view on Augmented Reality in relation to Mobile Marketing?


About the Author:

Originally posted on my blog: http://www.glcuccureddu.com/business/technology/augmented-reality-mobile-marketing-infusion/

Articles Source: Augmented Reality - Mobile Marketing Infusion

Augmented Reality Existing Platform

Augmented Reality Existing Platform


  


If you have been paying notice of brand new devices and gadgets which could be hitting the market and coming soon, you might be bound to have come across a new buzzword: Augmented Reality. This new technologies sounds cool however what's Increase Reality technology?

[caption id="attachment_43" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Augmented Reality Technology : Augmented Reality Existing Platform"] Augmented Reality Technology : Augmented Reality Existing Platform[/caption]

Simply put (which it usually isn't) Augmented Actuality is any sort of mixed real world and digital interplay that occurs in the course of genuine time. OK, maybe that wasn't too just put, so let me attempt it again. Augmented Actuality is for instance like Digital Reality, except it occurs in the actual globe and never a virtual one.

You ask which sort augmented reality means. Beginning because of the phrase increase let us look and see which sort meaning first. Augment stands for manufacturing things greater, larger, and more intense. If you be a part of supplement with reality, that is every thing that is around you. By doing this you are taking your actuality and making matters within it much more intense. To help you understand it more beneficial we are going to look into instances of augmented actuality and see which sort affects it goes to have in our day by day lives. .

Augmented actuality takes the important earth and expands on it using technology. It combines the genuine universe having a electronic just one employing only 3D in real time. While the previous definitions explain Augmented Actuality technological innovation in general, the pricipal cause AR is such a large buzzword now a days is due to handheld displays that use Augmented Display technology.

United States of America
To meet component of a binding agreement agreement with VantagePoint Technologies, which was formerly referred to as Citigraphix, the city of Birmingham acquired a digital reality model of the Downtown Central Company District in April The digital actuality model includes that whole area.

The Web is a new system of communication, brand new media and source of data, brand new method that of making business, new form of political and cultural expression, new form of teaching and learning, and brand new community. From the very start of the World wide web in 1991, it has completely improved the best way corporations do business, in addition to the best way clients pay for and use items and services. The Online offers extra opportunities for marketing. The spreading of the Net continues to be so impetuous that it also has been the purpose for well-grounded analysis. The Internet, electronic reality, can certainly or can't have adverse effects on our culture and society?

The background of the Internet dates back to the primary increase in communication networks. The thought of a desktop computer community meant to offer general communication between laptop users. This practice has developed via a great amount of s. The very first approaches appeared within the 1950s. In the 1980s, technologies that was reduced to the basis of the fashionable World-wide-web began to unfold worldwide. Within the 1990s the World Broad Internet was used everywhere in the world. The infrastructure of the Net unfold all over the globe and the fashionable globe broad community of computer systems have appeared. It spread amidst the western countries, then came into the advanceing nations and made a globally admittance to communications and data and an electronic divide in admittance to this brand new infrastructure.

About a Author


Wiley Schneiders is an consultant on Augmented Reality Cell PhoneAugmented Reality Surroundings Augmented Reality who also discloses information hindi songs,Video Player Software,satellite lyrics


Article source: http://goarticles.com/article/Augmented-Reality-Existing-Platform/5302029/

Augmented Reality Browser: New Wikitude for the iPhone

Augmented Reality Browser: New Wikitude for the iPhone
Author: b.lehner



Wikitude 6.0 sets new standards for AR Browsers – now live in the App Store!

Just in time for the opening of the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona Wikitude has announced the next generation of the „Best Augmented Reality Browser 2010“ (Augmented Planet). From today Wikitude 6.0 is available for download on Apple’s App Store http://bit.ly/ihmykZ . Wikitude overlays the live picture generated by the smartphone’s camera with local information (categorised in so called content “Worlds"). The new user interface offers a customisable “Home Screen“, a full text search in all available Wikitude Worlds ( for example Wikipedia, Mobile Coupons, Twitter, Starbucks etc.) with over 125 million places worldwide. Wikitude World Browser is available for the iPhone 4 and the iPhone 3Gs. It is also available for the iPhone 3G and the iPad but without Augmented Reality, as the 3G doesn’t have a digital compass and the iPad doesn’t have a camera – yet.

[caption id="attachment_37" align="aligncenter" width="200" caption="Augmented Reality Technology : Augmented Reality Browser: New Wikitude for the iPhone"]Augmented Reality Technology : Augmented Reality Browser: New Wikitude for the iPhone[/caption]

Speed, personalisation and intuitive handling are the key ingredients of the Wikitude World Browser for the iPhone. As soon as the app is started, all available points of interests (POIs) in your surroundings are shown. The corresponding details of the POIs are subsequently downloaded in the background – a procedure that noticeably increases the speed of the app.

Of the more than 1000 Worlds available in Wikitude, the user can drag his favourite Worlds to the Home Screen, making them easier and quicker accessible in the future. The user is also able to rearrange these Worlds, very much like rearranging Apps on the home screen of the iPhone.

A search-function located in the top area of the Home Screen enables the user to perform a full-text-search through all available Worlds. The personalised search-function can also be moved to the Home Screen itself. “Sushi" fans or “WiFi" hunters for example will love this feature.

All delivered information is available in three different ways: in Augmented-Reality-View (information is overlaid on the real-time camera view, augmenting reality so to speak) as well as on a map or as a list. With the flick of one finger the user can move between the different options. While viewing the app in the list-mode or map-mode a small yet very useful compass needle points towards the next point of interest.

Wikitude: where reality and computer based information fuse

Wikitude obtains its current location via the Smartphone’s GPS signal, connecting the real world with the digital world. If the iPhone is aimed at a specific area, all information available about objects within the camera’s view is shown. A current study from ARChart has shown, that the market potential for these types of Augmented Reality Applications is estimated to be 2.2 Billion USD by 2015.

Mobilizy’s current software-products are Wikitude Augmented Reality Browser and Wikitude Drive. Wikitude Browser aggregates content and information from thousands of sources (e.g. Mobile Coupons, YouTube, Flickr, Wikipedia and many more so called “Worlds") in the camera-view of a Smartphone. Wikitude Drive is an augmented reality based navigation system.

About Wikitude / Mobilizy GmbH

Mobilizy is an early pioneer in mobile augmented reality (AR) and the creator of the internationally renowned Wikitude World Browser for iPhone, Android, Symbian and Bada. Most recently Mobilizy has launched Wikitude Drive, the first AR navigation application with global coverage. Wikitude engages in the research and in-house development of location-based services and augmented reality experiences for smart-phones. www.wikitude.org

More information about Wikitude: www.wikitude.org

Watch Wikitude World Browser 6 User-Video: http://bit.ly/glRuKA

See and download Screenshots of Wikitude World Browser 6: http://bit.ly/f3IdrM

Wikitude Drive Social Media Channels:

http://www.twitter.com/wikitude

http://www.facebook.com/wikitude

http://www.flickr.com/wikitude

http://www.youtube.com/wikitude

Editorial enquiries:

Bernhard Lehner

bernhard [at] i5comm.com

Phone +43 664 439 86 09


Saturday, September 17, 2011

Augmented Reality Technology : Top 10 Augmented Reality Apps for Android

Top 10 Augmented Reality Apps for Android



By Scott R. Evans


Android is at the forefront of the new technology with many new applications taking advantage of its well accommodating accelerometer, compass, camera and GPS system. Here is a list of the top 10 augmented reality apps for Android:

[caption id="attachment_33" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Augmented Reality Technology : Top 10 Augmented Reality Apps for Android"]Augmented Reality Technology : Top 10 Augmented Reality Apps for Android[/caption]

  1. Wikitude World Browser - This app combines Wikipedia content with location awareness to provide real-time information about your surroundings. By panning your phone camera across a scene, you can see any POI's (points of interest) that are recognized by the app.

  2. Layar Reality Browser - This is one of the first augmented reality apps to hit the market and still retains its spot near the top in popularity. Depending on what type of layer you choose to include in your view, you can see many types of real-time digital information over top your view.

  3. Wikitude Drive - Wikitude Drive overlays driving instructions atop your camera's live video feed of the road. This allows users to watch the road as they are driving through their phone's screen with detailed information.

  4. Weather Reality - Weather Reality allows for many types of real-time weather related interactions. You can view detailed weather reports through your phone's camera along with current conditions, radar, severe weather reports and the path of the sun and the moon.

  5. AugSatNav - AugSatNav is an augmented reality navigation system primarily intended for walkers. Walking directions are provided to you through your live camera feed as you follow your path ahead.

  6. 3D AR Compass - This app is an augmented reality compass which provides multiple compass types, a rotating map, degrees and current address information.

  7. Tweeps Around - Tweeps Around combines Twitter with augmented reality by showing you who is tweeting in your immediate area and what they are saying. By pointing your camera in the direction of someone who's sent out a tweet, you'll see a marker with their distance and tweet.

  8. TagWhat - TagWhat is an augmented reality social networking app that allows users to tag any object in their camera's view. Friends of users can then view the tags and see any details that have been included.

  9. Google Goggles - Google Goggles is an app that allows you to capture an image of any object in your camera's view and then image recognition software compares it to others in its database to find a match. This can be useful to find information quickly on any object, place or words of interest.

  10. Space InvadAR - This app is a vision-based augmented reality game that allows you to feed in real-time video and then augment it with aliens and spaceships that you have to fight off.


Augmented reality will undoubtedly continue to push the boundaries for how we view our physical world and with the technical capabilities needed to support such technology, Android is poised to be increasingly more integrated with augmented reality mobile apps in the future.

Scott R. Evans
support@augmentedviews.com
http://www.AugmentedViews.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_R._Evans
http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-10-Augmented-Reality-Apps-for-Android&id=5685606

 

 

Augmented Reality - The Blending of the Real and the Virtual

Augmented Reality - The Blending of the Real and the Virtual



By Anoop Pooroosotumaren


Augmented Reality (AR) is the blending of the real and the virtual. It is when virtual elements are augmented by computer programs and associated with reality. In this article, we will have a look at some of the AR tools used today.

Slowly but certainly, the augmented reality is paving a way of virtual dependence. Technologies are adopting the augmented reality because of its high interactivity and efficiency. Our routine way of doing things is going to change in the coming years.

[caption id="attachment_27" align="aligncenter" width="279" caption="Augmented Reality : Augmented Reality - The Blending of the Real and the Virtual"]Augmented Reality : Augmented Reality - The Blending of the Real and the Virtual[/caption]

Face Tracking Technology


Face tracking technology is used mostly on cameras and mobile phones. It allows the camera to recognize and track a human face. Taking photos has become so much easy and simplified while improving quality. The camera automatically adjusts the focus, exposure and color balance.

Virtual Mirror


A lot of companies are implementing the use of virtual mirror on their websites. It is a 3D technology which allows online viewers who are sitting in front of their computer, to virtually try the latest products. A webcam is needed for it to work. For example, several companies selling sunglasses and eyeglasses have been using this interactive technology to market their products.

This is also relevant in clothing. There are mirror-like displays in shops where customers can see themselves wearing different clothing items. There is no need for a fitting room and the technology allows you to modify your cloth color and appearance. It is also applicable to footwear where various shoes of different colors can be tried by just standing in front of the virtual mirror.

Intelligent Smartphones


Another example of the augmented reality is through the use of intelligent smartphones whereby you just point your Smartphone at a building or roadside and additional information instantly appear on your phone such as current location, nearest hotel, restaurant menus, wind direction, compass among others.

Interactive Marketing


One of the most important tools used, in relation to augmented reality in marketing, is interactive products animations. Using digital photo studios, marketers can instantly create 360 degree animations and 3D animations of products, irrespective of size and weight. Online customers can rotate such virtual products animations using their computer mouse. This is quite similar to actually holding the product and looking at it through every possible angle. With such appealing interactive animations, the rate of customer conversion definitely gets boosted.

The future of Augmented Reality


Augmented reality is gradually changing the world. We can already guess how the future might be; with wearable gestural interface, you might be able to do everything with your hand or with your voice. For example, tomorrow you might take photos with just your hands, you might play multiplayer games in holograms battle fields... the possibilities are endless.

The author is currently working as English Copywriter at PackshotCreator, the interactive solution provider.

For more information: http://www.packshot-creator.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anoop_Pooroosotumaren
http://EzineArticles.com/?Augmented-Reality---The-Blending-of-the-Real-and-the-Virtual&id=5151039

Brain Stimulation Devices and Augmented Reality Computer Games

Brain Stimulation Devices and Augmented Reality Computer Games - Future is Near, It's Here



By Lance Winslow


There seems to be many interesting patents which have been filed lately in regards to computer gaming. Microsoft, Sony, and others have been really filing a ton of somewhat telling patents which seem to point to an augmented reality future, which will start with the gaming sector, as in Xbox and other systems. Already we see the military and industry setting up simulation training using similar systems, perhaps more robust and more costly, but essentially the future of the computer game sector is foretold in these technologies.

[caption id="attachment_23" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Augmented Reality Technology : Brain Stimulation Devices and Augmented Reality Computer Games"]Augmented Reality Technology : Brain Stimulation Devices and Augmented Reality Computer Games[/caption]

And it's not just gaming these days, as other industries are not playing around either. You see, there are a number of companies on the move in this sector, in fact, there was an interesting article not long ago on Fierce Medical Devices Online, in their newsletter alert titled; "Brainsway Looks to Raise $30 Million" by Liz Jones Hollis posted on April 12, 2011. This is an Israeli company which use "non-evasive deep transcranial magnetic stimulation" to activate parts of the brain used most in learning.

In other words, it will increase your comprehension, allow for better imprinting of neurons, and insure learning at that the highest possible human level, perhaps even just beyond what's humanly possible. Which gets me back to the computer games where you are up against impossible odds and all powerful virtual opponents, so what if your brain was pushed up a notch, well then so too would your level of play right, I mean how could it not.

Now then, this Brainsway device which sends pulses deep into the brain might be able to help with brain disorders and fix serious issues, and yes more tests obviously have to be done, but so far things are looking rather interesting, and if this technology holds true the cause, what about a healthy brain? What about the Sony Patents which are for inciting various moods into the players mind, or what about the Microsoft Patents for controlling the game with thought alone?

Makes sense as people are controlling cursors on computer screens with thought alone now, which means maybe these computer games in the future won't have joy sticks at all. Does that mean you can live a virtual life in your sleep? Yes, probably and this may sound eerie but it really appears that all those Sci Fi movies are coming fast and furious into our near future. As in 5-10 years, and whereas, all the technologists are thinking ahead, I guess I should ask, why aren't you? Okay so, I hope you will please consider all this and think on it.

Lance Winslow is the Founder of the Online Think Tank, a diverse group of achievers, experts, innovators, entrepreneurs, thinkers, futurists, academics, dreamers, leaders, and general all around brilliant minds. Lance Winslow hopes you've enjoyed today's discussion and topic. http://www.WorldThinkTank.net - Have an important subject to discuss, contact Lance Winslow.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lance_Winslow
http://EzineArticles.com/?Brain-Stimulation-Devices-and-Augmented-Reality-Computer-Games---Future-is-Near,-Its-Here&id=6180086

IPhone Augmented Reality Apps

IPhone Augmented Reality


Author:oli4uk


You might have heard about iPhone augmented reality, you might even have seen it. But many people do not know just what augmented reality is, and how it can affect both games and applications on the iPhone.

To start with, augmented reality is quite simply overlaying vitual information, graphics, or even a virtual world on top of the real world.  With the iPhone for instance, you can look at the real world through the iPhone camera, but fight off invading aliens over your city, or even use your iPhone as a golf range finder, looking at course information displayed over the golf course itself.

[caption id="attachment_13" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Augmented Reality : IPhone Augmented Reality Apps"]Augmented Reality : IPhone Augmented Reality Apps[/caption]

iPhone augmented reality does have a lot of uses in both enterteinment and day to day life, but lets delve a little deeper in to what Augmented reality is, and what it can do to improve your iPhone games and apps!

Augmented Reality iPhone Games


The simplest augmented reality iPhone games simply overlay a normal game over the view from your iPhone camera.  This means you can fight off an alien invasion over your city, or fight off Zombies in your own town's streets. While this is entertaining, you can go a whole lot further with iPhone augmented reality.

The high end of the scale is most definitely the AR Drone.  Using your iPhone you can fly a real life flying drone around your home, viewing the world through the camera mounted on the drone.  Through this camera you will see the real world around you, but with augmented reality enabled, you can use your real life flying drone to shoot down virtual enemies.

Augmented reality provides an infinite variety of alterations to the world around you, and it's simplistic idea can give complex and involving gameplay.

You can even find augmetned reality placed in to an iPhone MMORPG to give you a highly involving unique multiplayer gaming experience.

Augmented Reality iPhone Apps


Augmented reality is a great way to improve the functionality and usability of an iPhone app. Whether you are using a tour guide, or want a golf range finder.  iPhone augmented reality can overlay valuable information on real life objects.  You could point your phone at a table and see information about how it was constructed, the Taj Mahal, and see its background. By using augmetned reality and optical reocgnition there is a huge variety of possibilites for augmented reality iPhone apps, and we have only just seen the start.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/iphone-augmented-reality-4491762.html

About the Author

Oliver Whitham is an experienced SEO Consultant and owner of an amazing Article Directory and has a keen interest in emerging Augmented Reality games!