Qualcomm, the mobile technology company behind Android handsets like the Nexus One, has just made a push into the Augmented Reality arena with a new freely-available SDK that aims to bring standardized AR support to Android devices.
“Augmented reality represents a quantum leap in the mobile experience ” said Matt Grob senior vice president of engineering and head of corporate research and development at Qualcomm. “By offering a no-charge SDK with state-of-the-art image detection and tracking technology we help developers create the new generation of applications that are richer and more compelling than anything seen on the market today.”
Initially, the SDK is being used by Mattel in their newest version of the classic “Rock `em Sock `em” robots game. Unlike systems like Layar that use GPS & Compass to overlay data on the screen, the Qualcomm system is an actual computer-vision system using Markers, enabling more interactive applications.
In addition they are working with Unity to create an integrated development environment for application development, granting access to the Unity tools and assets.
Go check it out at http://www.qdevnet.com/ar/ .
