Wikitude is a mobile augmented reality technology provider based in Salzburg, Austria. Founded in 2008, Wikitude initially focused on providing location-based augmented reality experiences through the Wikitude World Browser App. In 2012, the company restructured its proposition by launching the Wikitude SDK, a development framework utilizing image recognition and tracking, and geolocation technologies. The Wikitude SDK is the company's core product. First launched in October 2008, the SDK includes image recognition & tracking, 3D model rendering, video overlay, location based AR. In 2017 Wikitude launched its SLAM technology which enables object recognition and tracking, as well as markerless instant tracking. The cross platform SDK is available for Android, iOS and Windows operating systems, being optimized as well for several smart eyewear devices. The Wikitude app was the first publicly available application that used a location-based approach to augmented reality.
How it works
Location based augmented reality
Wikitude initially entered the market with its geo location AR app. The Wikitude app was the first publicly available application that used a location-based approach to augmented reality. For location-based augmented reality, the position of objects on the screen of the mobile device is calculated using the user's position, the direction in which the user is facing and accelerometer. Augmentations can be placed at specific points of interest and afterwards viewed through the devices' screen or lenses. One of the best known examples of Geo based AR is .
Image Recognition
Since August 2012, Wikitude also features image recognition technologies that allow for tracker images to trigger augmented reality technology within the app. The software identifies relevant feature points of the target image. This allows to overlay and stick augmentations in specific position on top or around the image.
In 2017 Wikitude launched its SLAM technology. Instant , the first feature using SLAM, allows developers to easily map environments and display augmented reality content without the need for target images. Object Recognition is the latest addition based on SLAM, with the launch of SDK 7. The idea behind Object Recognition and Tracking is very similar to Image Tracking, but instead of recognizing images and planar surfaces, the Object Tracker can work with three-dimensional structures and objects.
Discussion
Opinions differ as to whether the location-based approach of augmented reality implemented by Wikitude can be considered as augmented reality. There is also concern for the accuracy of the GPS, compass and motion sensors used to calculate the position of the virtual objects. Inaccuracies could accumulate to the point that they prevent delivering a feasible result. In practice, this technique proves to be much simpler to implement than ones using the marker-based approach. In a current listing of the Top 5 AR Apps from The Telegraph, three mobile applications use the location-based approach.
