ACP launches new augmented reality app across portfolio

ACP Magazines is to launch viewa“ - a new augmented reality app that all of its titles will carry. The smartphone and tablet app will appear in editorial and advertising pages in October 2012.

viewa offers a live and direct digital experience straight from the page. After downloading the free app, readers will open it, choose their magazine channel and hold their smartphone or tablet over an image for immediate delivery of digital content.

Unlike QR codes, viewa does not require watermarks or barcodes to activate content: viewa recognises existing imagery. It also allows for simultaneous executions from a single trigger image. Videos can play directly off the page; images can appear in 3D; users can save content such as recipes, travel guides or mobile vouchers to their device; they can enjoy audio, play games, take part in a reader poll, enter competitions while on-the-go or interface directly with Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and email. There is also shop-direct functionality.

ACP Magazines publishing director, Gerry Reynolds said: "In the past we have had QR codes, watermarking and basic image recognition which have been clunky, delayed and accessed limited content. viewa removes friction between the printed page and digital action with a live and direct connection to rich, layered multi-media content. It offers a great user experience, quickly and easily bringing pages to life in a magical and relevant way.