The Easiest, Simplest Version of Layar Yet
Today we’re announcing a bunch of great improvements to the user experience of the Layar app which have created the easiest, most intuitive version of Layar yet.
Ease of use is imperative to any mobile application - especially AR apps - and this is exactly what we have aimed for with Layar 7.0, available today for iPhone and Android.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll find in the latest version of Layar:
Point, Scan, View - We’ve streamlined and simplified the scanning experience. A redesigned welcome screen invites users to seek out Layar-enabled content, scan it and view it - making the process easier than ever.
Separating Geo from Vision - In this version, users no longer need to select a “layer” after scanning something - all relevant content appears automatically. Because this effectively breaks the concept of “Vision layers” (only Camera View, no List or Map View), Geo-Layers have been compartmentalized into their own section. Users can still browse and search for Geo-Layers in the catalogue. Additionally, Vision layers will no longer appear under the “Test” tab. To test your layers, simply scan your pages as the user will.
Improved Handling of Location Services - You no longer need to have location services enabled on your device for Vision layers to work, improving both performance and battery life! Plus, iPhone users will no longer be shown the compass calibration screen while viewing Vision layers.
Improved Messaging - We changed and added feedback messaging to users to guide them through using the app, making it the easiest experience yet. Additionally, we added a 30-second help video that quickly shows the three-step Point, Scan, View process. Users are invited to watch the video upon launching the app for the first time, and can view it again later in the Layar Settings/About screen.
More AR Video Support - AR Video - which allows users to view videos directly on top of physical objects - is now available on more devices, providing a more consistent user experience. Supported devices now include iPhone 3GS and 4, any Android device running v4.0 or higher or any dual-core Android device running anything below v4.0.
Android Redesign - To provide a more native Android experience for users, we have redesigned the app to fit with Google’s new Ice Cream Sandwich guidelines. This provides familiarity to users when using Layar and other applications.
Layar 7.0 is available today in the iOS App Store and the Android Play Store.