Lonely Planet has come up with a novel way to entice consumers onto its digital platform – while still buying the travel guide books.
The company has partnered with Layar to allow users to access travel content such as video, photos, live weather feeds and activity ideas by scanning the cover of the book with a smartphone.
Layar uses vision-based augmented reality which uses the same types of sensors as GPS geolocators to display digital content in print publications, such as magazines and newspapers.
Users hold their phone over the cover of the book while using the app to be able to access the Lonely Planet digital guide functions. A data network or wireless connection is required.
The augmented reality app can also be linked to Lonely Planet’s website where users can book hotels and tours on their smartphone.
The free app is currently being trialled with 42 European City Guides and is available for use on both iOS and Android - any devices which have a camera.
Lonely Planet now has more than 150 mobile apps and 400 eBook titles.
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