Will augmented reality take off as a feature of Mattel toys? Only time will tell.
Mattel is releasing a new set of toys which use “augmented reality” to add additional layers of features to toys in a convergence of toy and computer. Pretty cool.
The toys, based on the James Cameron movie “Avatar,” each contain 3-D tags (known as an iTag) which can be scanned into a computer using a webcam. The included software then reads the scanned tag and displays additional information about characters, vehicles, etc. and makes them to appear like they’re coming out of the toy, but online. Place two together than they will interact with each other like they’re alive. Confused yet?
Essentially, the webcam image comes alive with 3D animated models and screens. It’s pretty awesome and the latest fad in marketing to hit toys, movies, and just about anything else.
Hat Tip – Gadgetell